Here’s something interesting. For those of us that build computers, we often find people getting a machine that is serious overkill for what they need. When someone says they’re buying a computer, the single biggest reasons I hear are because they want to
- Surf the Internet
- Listen to Music
- Send Email
- Type Documents
So what’s the point in having a computer that runs 450w can could easily calculate quantum physics if all you want to do is myspace and type papers? On top of that, the average computer costs $750 still. So what do we do?
Enter Zonbu, if there’s a computer that comes extremely close to a household appliance like a dish washer or fridge, this is it. It’s specs aren’t stunning. But the machine itself has a lot of promise. It’s only $100 if you buy a 2 year $13 a month plan for data backup (and since it only has 4gb of local storage, you might as well) or $250 without the backup plan. Still not a bad deal on that front. 
It comes with a version of Debian Linux that is somewhat pimped out to look like WindowsVista (I can see Zonbu having it’s day in court over this one). Specs, while not impressive, will serve the consumer nicely. Without things like Norton Internet Security or random email viruses to slow the system, this thing should (at least in theory) run just as good in 3 years as it does now without any hiccups in performance. Non-impressive but interesting stats are as follows:
- x86 CPU (The website lists it as “intel-like”. Wouldn’t surprise me if Via was behind this one)
- 512mb of RAM
- 4gigs of internal flash memory storage (I’m assuming this includes the OS partition as well, but who knows)
- Graphics that will get you by, support for up to 1400 x 1050 screen res and the 16 million colours we all know and love.
- Inputs for USB, CompactFlash, 10/100 cat5, PS/2, and audio in / out.
It also comes fully loaded with applications and drivers, allowing you to rock out with your iPod, work your suit and tie skills with open office, or plug in your digital camera and upload the day’s fun to to flickr. There’s even games like Solitaire and FreeCiv.
It’s also low powered, environmentally friendly, and if it breaks within 3 years, they’ll send you a new one. How many other computer companies will do that?
It won’t do Photoshop, but it looks like Zonbu might be able to find a home among budget conscious people or organizations needing cheap terminals. Check it out at zonbu.com.
