‘$100 laptop’ production begins:
Using open source software, OLPC have developed a stripped-down operating system which fits comfortably on the machine’s 1GB of memory.“We made a set of trade-offs which may not be an office worker’s needs but are more than adequate for what kids need for learning, exploring and having fun,” said Professor Bender.
The XO is built to cope with the harsh and remote conditions found in areas where it may be used, such as the deserts of Libya or the mountains of Peru.
For example, it has a rugged, waterproof case and is as energy efficient as possible.
“The laptop needs an order of magnitude less power than a typical laptop,” said Professor Bender. “That means you can power it by solar or human power.”
Governments that sign up for the scheme can purchase solar, foot-pump or pull-string powered chargers for the laptop.
And because it may be used in villages without access to a classroom, it has also been designed to work outside. In particular, the green and white machines feature a sunlight-readable display.
“For a lot of these children it’s their only book and we want them to have a first class reading experience,” said Professor Bender.
As William Gibson said, “The street finds its own uses for things.”