25-dollar credit card sized PC

 

Scientists of the computer Laboratory at Cambridge University have developed a novel low-cost computers, which only has the size of a credit card and will cost only 25 dollars (19 euros).

The tiny, in the name of "Raspberry Pi"Listen, to be sold starting in mid-2012 the same about the British charity organization. The aim of the Action: By providing a convenient and inexpensive machine need to be addressed, especially children, in order to train in computer skills and discover the joy of programming.

"We produce, develop and distribute an ultra-low-cost computers to bring the youth programming closer," it says on the website of the Raspberry Pi Foundation, which campaigns for the promotion of computer sciences and other related issues in schools . "Anyone with even a little pocket money, can afford these machines," adds co-developer Robert Mullins told the Wall Street Journal. "We observed a decrease in people seeking a degree in computer science. With our product we want to awaken the joy of programming, "said Mullins.

Technically, wholesome

Technically, the Raspberry Pi is a full-fledged computer in your pocket, to be offered in two different versions. Model A for $ 25 consists of an ARM11-based processor with 700 MHz, 128 megabytes of RAM, a USB 2.0 port, a slot for SD cards, a 3.5-mm audio and an HDMI video output. With some generous feature set, however, the model comes for $ 35 B thus: Here are 256 megabytes of RAM, built an additional Ethernet interface and a 2-port USB hub.

According to information from the manufacturer of innovative mini-PC at the beginning, only the operating system distributions, Debian, Fedora and ArchLinux will support that are stored on an SD card. "The final software package must be resolved first," notes Mullins. Special bonus: The Raspberry Pi does not require an additional monitor and can be connected to any TV set. The video output supports a 1080p signal 30, and OpenGL ES 2.0. The power supply works either on a 5V MicroUSB interface or alternatively via four AA batteries.

More than 10,000 on waiting list

According to Mullins, the development work for Raspberry Pi has already begun about three years ago. When the device is finally available for interested buyers actually available at this time but can not say exactly. "We hope the middle of next year to have a product on the market," says computer scientist. Already, there is a waiting list of more than 10,000 customers.

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