The NorhTech Gecko Edubook is a cheap, somewhat modular netbook that runs on AA batteries. The netbook first hit our radar in early May, but the folks behind the project have posted some updated information, as well as a nice little surprise: You can order one today for $199 if you’re willing to pay for shipping from Thailand.
In a recent YouTube video, a Norhtec rep explains that the netbook can run on AA batteries, and that you can use rechargeable batteries which can be charged while inside the unit. The computer will run for about 4 hours per charge.
The netbook has an 8.9 inch, 1024 x 600 pixel display, between 256MB and 1GB of RAM, and a 1GHz Xcore86 CPU. The x586-compatible processor can run most x86 enabled operating systems including Windows XP, Linux, or BSD.
The basic unit is available to the public for about $199.95 plus shipping. The goal is to make it available to dealers at a lower cost, and offer it to school systems who order in sufficient quantities for about $160. For about $150, dealers can order a barebones unit which can be configured with storage, a wireless module, and other components.
To place an order for a pre-production unit, hit up the Norhtec request page. You can check out the video from Norhtec after the break, as well as a video the folks at Netbook News shot at Computex showing a few people putting together Edubook demo units.
Update: I’ve added another video from Computex, courtesy of jkkmobile.
via Portable Monkey
I wish I knew the performance of that processor. This is really interesting to me.
Simply wonderful engineering.AA cells are available everywhere.
[…] in the west have never heard of before cranking these out (perhaps even toy manufacturers; look at this one that uses rechargable AA batteries! :-), while the bigger ones attempt to maintain their Windows-based notebook sales. […]