The $100 laptop may still be a myth, but the projects it inspired rugged, networked, ultra cheap, and low-power portables created to aid educational programs in developing countries are very real. And after months in development, they’re finally about to ship. Here’s a rundown of the designs and their key specs.
OLPC XO
Price:$200
CPU: AMD Geode LX-700 with integrated graphics
Display: 7.5 inches, 1200 by 900
Storage: 1GB flash
RAM:256MB
Networking: 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, plus mesh networking
Features: Built-in camera, speakers, game-pad controls, and mic
Number of green, antenna-looking things: Two
Availability: For a limited time, xogiving.org will sell you one for a child in a developing country and one to keep for $400
Intel Classmate PC
Price: Expected to cost $200 to manufacture
CPU: Intel Celeron M CPU and 915GMS chip set with integrated graphics
Display: 7 inches, 800 by 480
Storage: 2GB flash
RAM: 256MB
Networking: Ethernet and 802.11b/g Wi-Fi
Features: Built-in microphone and stereo speakers, optional wireless pen for note taking
Approximate width of screen bezel: Rather a lot
Availability: Sent to pilot programs in Brazil, Nigeria, and some Asian nations; won’t be sold to individuals.
Asus Eee PC
Price: $260 to $400
CPU: Intel mobile CPU and graphics
Display: 7 inches, 800 by 480
Storage: 2GB to 4GB flash
RAM: 256MB to 512MB
Networking: Ethernet and 802.11b/g Wi-Fi
Features: Built-in Webcam, MMC/SD card reader, three USB ports
Percentage of name that is “e”: 60 percent
Availability: At press time, available for pre-order through.