Zonbu: new small enviromentally friendly computer
I just discovered Zonbu and am looking forward to trying one out. Zonbu is a tiny PC that comes pre installed with a bunch of opensource and free software (openoffice, firefox, skype etc.) and uses 1/10th of the power of a “typical” desktop computer. Zonbu’s business model is to charge a nominal upfront fee ($99 and $249) and then $12 – $20 for a monthly subscription. The subscription includes software upgrades, hardware, replacement, support and online storage and backup.
Zonbu is a compact, ultra low power mini with all the bells and whistles:
- Intel-like ultra-low power CPU
- 512 MB RAM + 4GB flash-based local storage
- Graphics up to 1400 x 1050 (16 million colors).
Hardware graphics and MPEG2 acceleration- PC-compatible ports for keyboard and mouse
- 6 USB ports to plug-and-play all standard USB accessories
- Broadband ready: 10/100MB Ethernet built-in.
Zonbu is $99 with a two-year subscription plan. With month to month plan, Zonbu is $249.
As soon as I can get my hands on one, I’ll give a complete review.
Technorati Tags: zonbu, green, PC, opensource, computer
This thing looks pretty cool. However, I’m not sure If I would feel comfortable paying a monthly fee and not having and internal hard drive. Just think how long it would take to upload a movie to your Zonbu “hard drive”. Additionally, I think it should at least have a CD player.
It seems to me that Zonbu is not really made for power users. It would be great for people who are casual users. Surfing the internet and im with friends. Now way will you be doing video downloads.
I’m pretty sure that the Zonbu is for the more casual user, just as Randy stated. However, I think it would be cool if it had a video card that could connect to your TV and use it as a way to stream media from other computers or even be some sort of PVR. I’m sure when people get there hands on the Zonbu, there will be some hacking going on.