Hardkernel ODROID-U3 is a development board powered by Samsung Exynos 4412 quad core Cortex A9 processor that’s both small and cost effective at $59, not including required storage and shipping. An Israeli start-up named Imp Computer has now launched a mini PC of the same name, based on ODROID-U3 board, and running Lintux Ubuntu 14.04 with Cinnamon based Imp Desktop environment, and various pre-installed software packages like Chrome and Firefox web browsers, Kodi/XBMC, etc.., and somehow Microsoft Office with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook are also listed, which does not seem right on an ARM Linux machine, but they are apparently using Microsoft Office Online to achieve this feast.
Imp computer specifications:
- SoC – Samsung Exynos 4412 Prime @ 1.7 Ghz with ARM Mali-400MP4 GPU @ 440MHz
- System Memory – 2GB @ 880MHz
- Storage – 8 or 16 GB internal storage (micro SD card)
- USB – 3x USB 2.0 Host ports, 1x USB 2.0 device for ADB/mass storage
- Connectivity – 10/100Mbps Ethernet (LAN9730)
- Video Output – micro HDMI
- Audio Output – 3.5mm audio jack, micro HDMI
- DC Power – 5V/2A
- Dimensions – 10.92 x 10.92 x 3.05 cm
The mini PC comes with a power adapter, a USB Wi-Fi dongle, and a mini HDMI to HDMI cable.
A wireless HDMI stick (DLNA, Airplay), and a wireless keyboard & trackpad are also available as options. One of the advantage of this device is that the software is fully open source, and it leverages the work done by Hardkernel and member of ODROID community for Ubuntu and Android support. Their solution appears to have brought several open source solutions together (Linux, ownCloud, XBMC, etc..) to make easier for the end-user.
The project is now on Indiegogo (fixed funding), where the developers aim to raise at least $100,000 for mass production. A $129 early bird pledge should get the 8GB storage version including required accessories such as power supply and cable, and once all 250 early bird perks are gone, it will go for $149. The premium edition version with 16GB storage is $199, which seems a steep markup for just 8GB storage extra, and maybe a better looking case (not so clear). Shipping is free to the US, and $15 to the rest of the world. Delivery is expected to be in March/April 2015.
You can also find some more details on Imp Computer website.
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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