Linutop PC Threatens the Success of OLPC

Linutop is what you can call a basic "diskless" computer. It runs on Linux and can run various applications, most of them office or internet related. The idea behind Linutop Project is not (as one might expect) to compete against OLPC's $100 laptop, but to keep PC usage as simple as possible while at the same time achieve a low power consumption with a completely passive PC.

The Linutop PC can be useful in a lot of places starting with Internet Cafes, Universities, Libraries and can even be useful when put in an embedded environment (car, plane). The software integrates the Abiword documents processor, Firefox as a browser, Gaim for chatting and the Evince PDF reader. The PC also comes preinstalled with Totem Media Player (although the decoding capabilities are unknown and will probably be limited by the integrated CPU).

On the hardware side, Linutop features an AMD Geode CPU, 512 Mb ROM, and 256 Mb RAM, 4 x USB 2.0 ports audio in & out capabilities. 100baseT Ethernet RJ45 connector is also present along with a VGA output. Linutop also has Wifi capabilities and Flat panel output. Not bad for a 9.3 x 2.7 x 15 cm thingie that weights about 280 grams.

I have to say I am impressed. I've seen both PIC and OLPC PCs and this one simply looks better. However, it will probably perform the same since on the hardware side there are no major differences. Maybe the Linutop PC is not aimed at the developing countries markets but it could sure do some profits there. About the price and availability, Linutop's website doesn't say anything. It won't probably come cheaper than OLPC's PC (which by the way sells with a price tag from $125- $210) but it won't be more expensive either.