14 DAY TRIAL // We've talked about ultra-compact, small-size computers before, but now it's time to take a look at an unit of this type that takes everything to a whole new level, since the DreamPlug from Globalscale Technologies doesn't even require a power adapter anymore, by plugging directly within power socket. The ultra-small form factor PC measures only 110mm x 69.5mm x 48.5mm, but despite its minute size, it's actually packed with some pretty interesting hardware components, starting with the Marvell ARMADA 168 Applications Processor - Sheeva Core Embedded CPU running at @ 1.2 GHz, accompanied by 512MB 16bit DDR2 memory clocked at @800 MHz.
In terms of storage, the DreamPlug comes equipped with 2MB SPI NOR Flash memory for for uboot, as well as 1 GB on board micro-SD memory card for kernel and root file system.
It's also interesting to mention that, despite its very compact size, the DreamPlug offers plenty of connectivity options, including here 2 x Gigabit Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbps connectors, 2 x USB 2.0 ports (Host), 1 x eSATA 2.0 port- 3Gbps SATAII, 1 x SD Socket for user expansion/application, 802.11 b/g WiFi networking, as well as a Bluetooth BT2.1 + EDR module.
The DreamPlug also offers some pretty interesting audio playback capabilities, as it supports 48K/44.1 KHz Sampling Rate for Both Playback and Recording, and comes equipped with an S/PDIF connector with fiber optics interface, as well as a standard stereo headphone out.
The device from Globalscale also can also be easily turned into a tool for developers, since it supports the addition of an USB-JTAG debug interface board via micro SD slot.
The device runs either the uboot OS (saved within the built-in NOR flash), while users can always install either an Ubuntu or Debian distribution, should they desire to do so.
The DreamPlug is available for $149 (not a bad price at all, considering its features) and will start shipping later this month.
