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Gonzo, I typed the @ sign for my question on one of my other computers. Like many people, I have several of them. The Netbook is just the latest.
The keyboard is laid out in UK style and every other UK keyboard I use, the @ symbol is simply typed in; no problem. The Netbook, however, has some keys that are used for both numbers and letters (go figure) and in order to use those keys just for the letter function, one has to hit f10 and f11. Weird!
I think Iolana is right though; the keyboard configuration may still be set to something else, because I do in fact get the " symbol when I'm trying to get the @ symbol. Guess I'll call one of the stores selling Netbooks and ask them.