Next Thing has launched a new system-on-a-chip board in the form of the GR8, which is priced at a very affordable $8. Alongside this, they have introduced a Pro single-board mini PC called the CHIP Pro, priced at $16. For developers looking to dive deeper, Next Thing also offers a $49 CHIP Pro developer kit, which includes 2 CHIP Pro units, a debug board, and headers.
Evolution from the Original CHIP
The new hardware follows on from the original CHIP mini PC that was launched last year at a price of $9. The original CHIP was a groundbreaking piece of hardware for makers and hobbyists, providing an accessible and cost-effective platform for building mini PC systems. The introduction of the GR8 and CHIP Pro continues this legacy, offering enhanced features and capabilities while maintaining affordability.
The CHIP Pro is a small, low-power, Linux-based computer that features connectivity via 802.11b/g/n WiFi and Bluetooth 4.2. It also includes dual microphones, which can be particularly useful for voice-activated projects or audio recording applications. Users have the option to choose between 256MB or 512MB of storage, allowing for flexibility based on the needs of their specific projects.
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
The GR8 is equipped with a 1 GHz Allwinner R8 ARM Cortex-A8 processor, supported by Mali-400 graphics and 256MB of DDR3 RAM. This combination ensures that the GR8 can handle a variety of tasks, from simple computing to more complex graphical applications. The Allwinner AXP209 power management unit is another key feature, providing efficient power usage and management, which is crucial for low-power devices.
In addition to its processing capabilities, the GR8 supports a range of peripherals and devices. It includes support for cameras, SD cards, and USB ports, making it a versatile choice for a wide array of projects. Whether you’re building a custom camera system, a portable media player, or a small-scale server, the GR8 provides the necessary interfaces and power to bring your ideas to life.
For more information, full specifications, and to order the new boards, jump over to the Next Thing website for details via the link below.
Source: Liliputing : Register
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