It’s important to keep in mind the system’s limitations: a relatively slow processor and an underclocked graphics chip, a tiny 1024- by 600-pixel screen, a cramped keyboard, no optical drive, and a horrible, horrible trackpad. It’s a discouraging list of drawbacks, but apart from the trackpad, you know about these limitations going in: you buy a netbook like this, regardless of the OS, because you’re willing to trade performance to get an inexpensive, 2.4-pound laptop with a tiny footprint.
In that context, the computer performs better than I expected, and I was surprised to find that most standard features work under OS X: The computer successfully connects to my wireless network, the Webcam works with iChat, I can use Bluetooth input devices, and the keyboard’s volume, brightness, and sleep keys function normally. I’ve even updated the OS and various Apple apps several times using Software Update.
Having run OS X on both an HP Mini 1000 and a Dell Mini 9 (the twin of the Dell Vostro A90 Frakes used), I agree that OS X on a Dell Mini 9 is smooth as butter, but I ultimately have given up on netbooks due to the hardware limitations that are inherent to the machines due to their very nature.
I now carry a black 13-inch MacBook around everywhere that gets the job done in a small-ish package. While it’s no Mini 9—by any means—it is a fine machine for its size.