HP has introduced three ultra-portable notebook computers, including a three-pound EliteBook, which according to the company is the smallest and lightest HP notebook with a built-in optical drive.

The HP EliteBook series comprising the EliteBook 2530p and the EliteBook 2730p incorporates the latest Intel processors, solid-state hard drives and the most up-to-date wireless technologies, making them ideal for the business user on the go.

The EliteBook models feature an optional integrated 2 megapixel webcam with business card reader software, and an integrated HP NightLight that shines on the keyboard to improve visibility in low light. A shock-resistant hard drive and spill-resistant keyboard, standard with the HP EliteBook series, help defend data against bumps, drops and spills.

Inspired by aircraft construction and designed for style-conscious mobile professionals, the HP EliteBook 2530p features the sleek and durable HP DuraCase –  a brushed, anodised aluminum exterior casing combined with a magnesium alloy chassis that is engineered to pass several military-standard durability tests such as extreme temperature, dust and humidity.

The EliteBook 2530p offers the choice of an ultra-small 1.8-inch hard drive with a built-in optical drive or a higher-capacity 2.5-inch hard drive. For added protection against bang-ups, the inner magnesium shell of the notebook's HP DuraCase is equipped with a honeycomb pattern that is thermally bonded to anodised aluminum for a solid construction to withstand active day-to-day use on the road.

The HP EliteBook 2730p is an ultra-thin, convertible tablet that can transform from an ultra-light notebook PC into a pen-based tablet, merely with a twist of the screen.New features include an integrated touchpad, tablet buttons and a jog dial.

Frequent travelers can take advantage of the optional ultra-slim battery accessory that offers up to 12 combined hours of battery life. The HP EliteBook 2730p also supports a convenient, ultra-slim docking solution with an integrated DVD+/-RW drive.

Stylish and powerful, the HP Compaq 2230s notebook PC offers a 12.1-inch diagonal widescreen display and a satin, reflective, black-on-black surface. With the Wi-Fi-certified wireless local area network (WLAN) and integrated Bluetooth wireless technology, mobile professionals can send and receive emails or access the Internet - at work, at home or at their favorite hotspots.

This modernised classic business notebook includes HP 3D DriveGuard, which uses a three-axis accelerometer to detect sudden movement and initiate protective action, helping safeguard the hard drive against bumps or drops

All HP business notebooks are designed with the environment in mind, offering energy-efficient features and select materials for easier recycling. Both the EliteBook 2530p and 2730p have an electronic product environmental asssessment Tool (EPEAT) gold rating and feature a mercury-free Illumi-Lite LED display, which is lighter and more energy-efficient than standard notebook display technology. HP has set a goal to remove all mercury from its notebooks by 2010. Mercury, which commonly found in notebook screens  is a potentially hazardous substance.

The notebooks feature HP mobile broadband with built-in Gobi technology from Qualcomm and use a single module, the HP un2400, to support multiple mobile broadband network technologies and mobile operators. This increases users' international roaming options and offers greater choice and flexibility in choosing a mobile data plan

The HP EliteBook 2530p and HP EliteBook 2730p, expected to be available by early September, have been priced (US street price) $1,499 and $1,670, respectively.

The HP Compaq 2230s is currently available at an estimated starting US street price of $999.