12/22/2009
OLPC X03?
So, back in 2007 for Christmas we got Louise an OLPC XO-1 through the Give-One, Get-One program.
We've used it some, but it's been a bit of a mixed bag. I love the ID and the overall hardware design, but as a computer for Louise, it pales in comparison to the iMac we've got (no flash, small screen, etc), and the LEGO WEDO software never came out for it, which was a disappointment (expected to be compatible with the OLPC XO by mid-year 2009!). And then, admittedly, she was a bit young for it at the time. It's a good thing her dad's a bit of a geek, or we'd have really felt burned.
Since then, netbooks have taken off - a market that didn't exist just two years ago, and, arguably, was created by the XO-1. And Louise still does pull it out from time to time. And I've learned more about the pros and cons and quirks of open-source projects and Linux. And some kid who the machine was designed for has one now, thanks to the "Give One" aspect of the program. So upon reflection, all-in-all - we've gotten our money's worth out of the little green guy.
I wonder what the X03 will do? Looks pretty slick.
And then there's the new Chumby (2007 was a big gadget year for our house). I'm not sure I'll jump on that one, but we have been enjoying the "Classic" lately, in it's perch on top of our refrigerator. It's like the "TV in the kitchen" from yesteryear, but jacked into the interwebs.....
We've used it some, but it's been a bit of a mixed bag. I love the ID and the overall hardware design, but as a computer for Louise, it pales in comparison to the iMac we've got (no flash, small screen, etc), and the LEGO WEDO software never came out for it, which was a disappointment (expected to be compatible with the OLPC XO by mid-year 2009!). And then, admittedly, she was a bit young for it at the time. It's a good thing her dad's a bit of a geek, or we'd have really felt burned.
Since then, netbooks have taken off - a market that didn't exist just two years ago, and, arguably, was created by the XO-1. And Louise still does pull it out from time to time. And I've learned more about the pros and cons and quirks of open-source projects and Linux. And some kid who the machine was designed for has one now, thanks to the "Give One" aspect of the program. So upon reflection, all-in-all - we've gotten our money's worth out of the little green guy.
I wonder what the X03 will do? Looks pretty slick.
And then there's the new Chumby (2007 was a big gadget year for our house). I'm not sure I'll jump on that one, but we have been enjoying the "Classic" lately, in it's perch on top of our refrigerator. It's like the "TV in the kitchen" from yesteryear, but jacked into the interwebs.....
