"With its 8.9-inch, 1024 x 600 keyboard, NorhTec's Gecko EduBook looks like any number of netbooks. But, unlike any netbook we've encountered, the EduBook is claimed to be capable of running for four hours on eight, off-the-shelf NiMH (nickel metal hydride) AA batteries. In addition, the device has an internal power supply, capable of recharging the system via a simple, easily replaced AC line cord, according to the company.
"NorhTec says that while the device may also be configured with lithium-ion battery packs -- which can extend battery life by up to 50 percent -- the use of AA batteries provides a substantial cost savings. In quantity, eight NiMH batteries may be sourced for approximately $10 per device, the company says, in contrast to proprietary li-ion batteries that can cost up to $100 per pack. (In addition, in many poor, remote, or rural areas of the world, AA's are the only battery to be consistently found.)"
