Dell began selling its Ubuntu Linux consumer PCs over the weekend, and I’ve made my purchase. Overall, Dell’s online store and configuration system provided a smooth buying experience. But I do have one concern about the PC even before it arrives on my doorstep.

When Dell officially begins to sell PCs with Ubuntu Linux pre-installed, I’ll be among the first to know. That’s because Dell plans to send me — and thousands of other people — an enewsletter announcing the systems any day now.

Intel is the latest hardware company to give Ubuntu its stamp of approval. Only a few days after Dell announced plans to pre-load Ubuntu Linux on selected PCs, Intel is now helping Ubuntu design mobile and embedded versions of the operating system for small, handheld, graphical tablets and other devices that are Internet enabled.

Much of the Linux community is waiting to for Dell to introduce PCs with Ubuntu pre-loaded in North America. But if you can’t wait for Dell to deliver the goods, there are alternatives.

Take the world’s fastest-growing version of Linux and match it with the world’s fastest-growing open source email platform… What do you get? How about a promising partnership between Ubuntu and Zimbra?

It’s official. I plan to purchase a Dell PC with Ubuntu Linux as soon as possible. My only challenge: Dell has yet to actually unveil the PCs. The company’s Web site now includes a teaser for Ubuntu-based PCs.