Olimex has unveiled a new addition to their range this week in the form of the OLinuXino A13 mini PC, which is a single board computer offering a variety of ports and a processor more powerful than the Raspberry Pi.
The great thing about the new OLinuXino A13 mini PC is that its developers say both its hardware and software are open source, allowing developers to create and sell devices based on the OLinuXino A13. This open-source approach provides a significant advantage for hobbyists, educators, and developers who are looking to customize and optimize their projects without the constraints of proprietary systems.
Technical Specifications and Variants
Olimex has created two versions of their new OLinuXino A13 mini PC, both priced under $60. The A13-OLinuXino is powered by a 1 GHz Allwinner A13 ARM Cortex-A13 processor supported by Mali 400 graphics, making it a robust option for a variety of applications, from simple educational tools to more complex embedded systems. The second variant, the iMX233-OLinuXino-MAXI, is equipped with a 454 MHz Freescale i.MX233 processor. While it has a lower clock speed compared to the A13-OLinuXino, it is still a capable device for many lightweight computing tasks.
Both versions come with a range of ports, including USB, HDMI, and Ethernet, providing ample connectivity options for peripherals and network access. Additionally, the boards support various operating systems, including popular Linux distributions, which further enhances their versatility.
Applications and Community Support
The OLinuXino A13 mini PC is not just a piece of hardware; it is part of a larger ecosystem that encourages innovation and collaboration. The open-source nature of the OLinuXino A13 means that developers can freely modify and share their designs, fostering a community-driven approach to development. This is particularly beneficial for educational purposes, where students can learn about hardware and software design in a hands-on manner.
For example, educators can use the OLinuXino A13 to teach students about computer architecture, programming, and electronics. Hobbyists can leverage the board to create custom home automation systems, media centers, or even DIY robotics projects. The possibilities are virtually endless, limited only by the imagination and creativity of the user.
For more information and full specifications, jump over to the Olimex website for more information on both OLinuXino open source mini PCs. If you enjoy building Raspberry Pi projects, you might also be interested in the awesome Raspberry Pi tablet created by Michael Castor. This project showcases the potential of single-board computers in creating innovative and functional devices.
Source: Hacker News: Liliputing : OLinuXino
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.