$300 tablet runs Ubuntu Linux on AA batteries

“NorhTec’s Gecko Info Pad — touted as “the least expensive
tablet PC that’s ever been built” — is an interesting follow-on to
the Gecko EduBook, a $200 netbook announced by the company in May.
Key features of the EduBook, carried over to the Info Pad include
the ability to run for three to four hours on eight, off-the-shelf
NiMH (nickel metal hydride) AA batteries, plus an internal power
supply that allows recharging the system via a simple, easily
replaced AC line cord, the company says.

“According to NorhTec, the Info Pad (above) may also be
configured with lithium-ion battery packs — which can extend
battery life by up to 50 percent — if a customer wishes. However,
the use of AA batteries is claimed to provide 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.”

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