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Remember just the other day when we were saying that $300 was too much to spend for a ultra-small, low-power, linux PC? Well, I was right, which is why ZonBox is offering a low-wattage linux box superior to the Linutop for only $99.
Of course, the ZonBox requires a subscription, which is a revenue model that has, so far, not worked at all for computer manufacturers.
Nonetheless, the ZonBox is worth discussing because its model holds a great deal of potential for the future of green computing. After you lay down the $99 for the machine, ZonBox charges users $12.95 a month for a variety of services like remote access, networked data storage and software updates for its open source suite of applications.
The ZonBox consumes about six watts of power and uses simple non-toxic components (it's harddrive is a compact flash card.) Depending on your current setup, using a ZonBox could save you more in ultilities costs than you'll be paying for your subscription, an excellent enticement.
ZonBox is definitely aware of the environmental appeal of its new offering. Just now when I signed up to get updates from the company, one of the three questions they asked was "How much does a zero-emissions PC interest you." So maybe carbon offsets will be part of the subscription price.
Via Engadget
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written by Francesco DeParis, May 11, 2007
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written by Dr J C Bullas, July 20, 2007
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written by BCC, July 25, 2007
CF,
Because you have little free time and don't want the hassle?
I am perfectly capable of installing whatever Linux distro on whatever machine, and messing with config files to get everything working. But I have a wife, kids, job, and I just don't want to spend my time on that any more. Sure, Ubuntu has made this pretty brainless, but still.
Further, automating backups from various home machines is made easier if you have a 24x7 file server. But that's a lot of wasted energy with a typical server; this thing runs ~10W.
CF, does this Zonbu thing make sense for you? Doesn't sound like it.
For me? Sure- the subscription fee is fairly competitive (last I checked) when viewed as off-site storage warranty other services (auto-update, etc.)
I plan to get one to serve as my no-hassle off-site backup file server, and let the kids bang on it. My first machines cost
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written by Meghan, April 03, 2008
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Whatever, any one happen to know if you can purchase this thing with out the monthly costs? I doubt that I would every purchase something like this in the near future, but if I did why would I pay some one to support my machine when I could do it myself?