Wanna see a cool piece of kit you just can't have?



Intel has created an ultra-low-cost laptop for school children in emerging markets (why can't we be emerging?). The "ClassMatePC" is available with Linux or Windows XP, comes with an "educational feature set," and is part of a program in which Intel plans to invest £1/2 billion over the next five years.

Intel describes the ClassMatePC as a rugged device with features similar to mainstream PCs. It's based on a mobile Celeron processor and is equipped with local (flash-based) storage and a built-in wireless network interface. Additionally, the unit sports a water-resistant keyboard and comes with a theft-control feature based on a network-issued digital certificate.

Initially, the device is shipping in volume to Brazil and Mexico. Intel also plans to pilot the device in Chile, China, India, Indonesia, Libya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam.

Powered by an Intel Mobile Ultra Low Voltage Celeron Processor, it has 256MB of RAM, and 1GB of flash memory when used with Linux. When fitted with Windows XP, 2GB of flash memory is required.

It includes:
  • Stereo two-channel audio, with built-in speakers/mic, and external audio out/mic in
  • 10/100 Ethernet networking
  • 802.11b/g wireless LAN
The ClassMatePC measures 9.6 x 7.7 x 1.7 inches (245 x 196 x 44mm), and weighs 2.86 pounds (1.3kg). It has a 7-inch WVGA (800 x 480) LCD illuminated by an LED backlight. It comes with a six-cell battery with adapter, said to last for four hours of use.

ClassMatePC provides an "integrated educational feature set" said to promote teacher-student and teacher-parent collaboration. Other software includes OpenOffice, Pegasus Note Taker (by Intel), and various teacher and parental control programs. Alternatively, the unit is also available with Microsoft XP Professional and Microsoft Office. UK version? Not yet!

My guess is that Intel already see the obvious benefits of making this type of device available to education, my fear is that the manufacturers who use their chips won't let them. Not many people know, but Intel works pro-actively behind the scenes at all levels of Government to push the digital inclusion agenda, and are committed to its principles. Turning sand into computer chips is only one part of the cost and profit of a computer. A bold step is needed, and a commitment to deferred return on investment by device manufacturers. Imagine when every child can have something like this.
Published Tuesday, March 27, 2007 9:12 PM by AlanDay
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