The Simputer -- a low cost "open licensed" handheld computer

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(Last updated: Aug. 20, 2001)

The Simputer is a low cost portable alternative to PCs, by which the benefits of IT can reach the common man. Basically, it is a low cost handheld computer based on the combination of an "open" (GPL-like) hardware license plus open source, Linux-based software.

The Simputer is a project of The Simputer Trust, a non-profit organization whose stated goal is "harnessing the potential of Information Technology for the benefit of the weaker sections of society." The Simputer has a special role in the third world because it ensures that illiteracy is no longer a barrier to handling a computer.

The key to bridging the digital divide is to have shared devices that permit truly simple and natural user interfaces based on sight, touch and audio. The Simputer meets these demands through a browser for the Information Markup Language (IML). IML has been created to provide a uniform experience to users and to allow rapid development of solutions on any platform.

The Simputer Spec

Hardware

CPU 32-bit Strong Arm SA-1100 RISC CPU running at 200MHz
32 MB of DRAM
24 MB Flash for Permanent Storage (DOC)
Display I/F 320x240 Monochrome LCD Display Panel

Interfaces
Touch-panel Overlay on LCD Display used with a plastic stylus (Pen)
Speaker and MIC Jacks Smartcard Connector
RJ-11 Telephone Jack
USB Connector

Dimensions
Approximately 8cm x 13 cm x 2 cm
Power Supply 3 AAA-sized NiMh batteries

System Software
Operating System: GNU/Linux
Soft-Modem Algorithms V.34/V.17 Data/Fax Modem Technology
Perl/Tk scripting environment

Application Software
imli: an IML browser
Tapatap: Input method
Internet access (Browser, Email, etc.)
Dhvani: Text-to-Speech Software
MP3 Player

Several photos are available here

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