| Mini-notebook runs "Windows friendly" Linux |
Jun. 04, 2008
 [Updated Jun. 4] -- 3K Computer is shipping a $300 ultra-mini PC notebook that runs "Genuine CE" Linux distribution from a 4GB SSD (solid-state disk). 3K's RazorBook 400-Mini-Notebook uses a 32-bit RISC-based processor from Chinese processor start-up Ingenic.
(Click for larger view of the 3K RazorBook 400)
Weighing under two pounds and measuring 8.25 x 5.5 x 1.25 inches, the 3K RazorBook 400 offers a claimed 15-second boot time and a "shock-proof" design, says 3K. The device closely resembles another recently announced low-cost laptop based on an Ingenic processor, Bestlink's Alpha 400 mini notebook. Both use an unspecified Ingenic CPU, possibly the Jz4740 Multimedia Application Processor, clocked at 400MHz.
Ingenic was founded in China in 2005. It fabs its chips on 0.18-micron technology, and claims them compatible with both Linux and Windows CE.
Ingenic's processors are based on a 32-bit RISC-based architecture dubbed Xburst. The architecture is based on MIPS, according to Ingenic's Linux page. The Xburst architecture also supports SIMD (single instruction, multiple data) instructions that, like Intel's SSE1, SSE2, and SSSE3 instructions, aim to accelerate media processing.
A changelog on Ingenic's Linux page suggests the company maintains a 2.6.24.3 kernel for its SoCs, with drivers that include YAFFS2, UBI & UBIFS, power management, SLC/MLC NAND, MMC/SD, LCD framebuffer, ALSA/OSS audio, UDC, USB host, Camera, RTC, WatchDog, udev, hotplug etc. The page also hosts ports of several open source applications, including the versatile mplayer media player.
RazorBook 400
The RazorBook 400's Genuine CE Linux Operating System is said to be "Windows-friendly," suggesting its interface resembles that of Windows. The distribution includes an "open source Office Suite," which includes AbiWord, GNUMeric, an email client, FireFox 2, and a PDF Reader. The pre-installed software also includes games, schedulers, music players, movie players, and planners.
A big hand for the RazorBook 400 |
The specs listed for the RazorBook 400 include:- Processor -- Ingenic 400MHz 32-bit single-core mobile processor
- Memory -- 512MB DDR2
- Flash -- 4GB internal flash storage
- Flash expansion -- Memory card reader supports SD/SM
- Display -- 7-inch WVGA (800 x 480) TFT LCD
- Networking -- 10/100 Ethernet
- WiFi -- 802.11
- USB -- 3 x USB 2.0
- Audio -- "high-definition" audio, integrated stereo speakers
- Modem -- 56K V.92 Data/Fax PCI
- Dimensions -- 8.25 x 5.5 x 1.25 inches
- Weight -- Under 2 lbs
- Battery -- 2-cell 2100 mAh; AC adapter
- Other features -- Three docking station options up to 4 x USB, Ethernet, VGA ($110); RoHS compliant
- Operating system -- Genuine CE Linux Operating System version 2.4
According to an early-look review that appeared last week on Laptop.com, the RazorBook 400 was "not as bad as I'd expected," wrote reviewer Joanna Stern. However, she faulted the Genuine CE distribution, which she found to be difficult to customize and unable to accept new applications. She also knocks the system for its lack of a VGA output, although a VGA port is available via a $110 docking station option that also provides four additional USB ports and an extra Ethernet port.
Availability
The 3K RazorBook 400-Mini-Notebook PC appears to be available now for $300, says 3K. More information may be available here.
Related Stories:
(Click here for further information)
|
|
|
FUEL Database on MontaVista Linux
Whether building a mobile handset, a car navigation system, a package tracking device, or a home entertainment console, developers need capable software systems, including an operating system, development tools, and supporting libraries, to gain maximum benefit from their hardware platform and to meet aggressive time-to-market goals.
Breaking New Ground: The Evolution of Linux Clustering
With a platform comprising a complete Linux distribution, enhanced for clustering, and tailored for HPC, Penguin Computing¿s Scyld Software provides the building blocks for organizations from enterprises to workgroups to deploy, manage, and maintain Linux clusters, regardless of their size.
Data Monitoring with NightStar LX
Unlike ordinary debuggers, NightStar LX doesn¿t leave you stranded in the dark. It¿s more than just a debugger, it¿s a whole suite of integrated diagnostic tools designed for time-critical Linux applications to reduce test time, increase productivity and lower costs. You can debug, monitor, analyze and tune with minimal intrusion, so you see real execution behavior. And that¿s positively illuminating.
Virtualizing Service Provider Networks with Vyatta
This paper highlights Vyatta's unique ability to virtualize networking functions using Vyatta's secure routing software in service provider environments.
High Availability Messaging Solution Using AXIGEN, Heartbeat and DRBD
This white paper discusses a high-availability messaging solution relying on the AXIGEN Mail Server, Heartbeat and DRBD. Solution architecture and implementation, as well as benefits of using AXIGEN for this setup are all presented in detail.
Understanding the Financial Benefits of Open Source
Will open source pay off? Open source is becoming standard within enterprises, often because of cost savings. Find out how much of a financial impact it can have on your organization. Get this methodology and calculator now, compliments of JBoss.
Embedded Hardware and OS Technology Empower PC-Based Platforms
The modern embedded computer is the jack of all trades appearing in many forms.
Data Management for Real-Time Distributed Systems
This paper provides an overview of the network-centric computing model, data distribution services, and distributed data management. It then describes how the SkyBoard integration and synchronization service, coupled with an implementation of the OMG¿s Data Distribution Service (DDS) standard, can be used to create an efficient data distribution, storage, and retrieval system.
7 Advantages of D2D Backup
For decades, tape has been the backup medium of choice. But, now, disk-to-disk (D2D) backup is gaining in favor. Learn why you should make the move in this whitepaper.
|
|
|
|
|
news feed