Hercules launches 10-inch Linux powered eCAFÉ Netbooks

The ARM Cortex-A8 powered netbook runs a customised version of Ubuntu 10.04 LTS.
Source: Hercules IT devices specialist Hercules has announced the launch of two new Linux-based eCAFÉ netbooks, the eCAFÉ Slim HD and the eCAFÉ EX HD. Both of these devices are powered by ARM Cortex-A8 CPUs and feature built-in webcams, 512 MB of RAM, 8 GB of Flash storage and 10-inch displays with a resolution of 1024 by 600. Connectivity options include an SDHC card slot, 3 USB 2.0 ports, an Ethernet port and one mini-USB port, as well as 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi.

According to Hercules, the netbooks will run a Linux-based Hercules eCAFÉ Netbook Edition Operating System. Based on images of the eCAFÉ systems, they appear to be running a customised version of Ubuntu 10.04, code named "Lucid Lynx", the current Long Term Support (LTS) version of Ubuntu.

As the name suggests, the eCAFÉ Slim HD focuses on being small and light; it is 0.8" thick and weighs in at 1.9 lbs, while the eCAFÉ EX HD is 1.1" and comes in at 2.4 lbs. The EX HD model makes up for its increased size with improved battery life – the company says it will last up to 13 hours, "in real use conditions". Additionally, the EX HD model adds an HDMI port and multi-media touch controls. Both are said to be able to smoothly play 720p video.

Further details about the netbooks, including a short video, can be found in the company's official announcement and on the eCAFÉ product pages. The eCAFÉ Slim HD and eCAFÉ EX HD will be available in April 2011 at a suggested retail price of £179.99 and £229.99 respectively.

See also:

• Hercules Sets a New Standard with its Latest Generation of eCAFÉ Netbooks, press release from Hercules.

(crve)