“This month we take a look at a number of small form factor PCs
that either come with Linux or would make a perfect fit for your
favorite Linux distro. Each of the computers mentioned takes up
very little space, but all deliver plenty of computing performance
to handle everything from basic web browsing to watching videos.
They make nice little firewalls, basic file/web/print servers, and
quiet, low-power media servers. All of these units typically
consume a fraction of the power of a conventional desktop and less
than many traditional laptops.“Cost is a big factor when you compare the price tags to other
machines. It’s hard to justify spending $300 – $400 on a small
form-factor PC as a desktop replacement when you can purchase a
netbook for about the same price or less. The differences in
performance and capabilities just don’t justify the price
differential. We’ll take a look at some of those netbook offerings
in a later roundup. For now, let’s look at what’s out there in the
world of “little” computers.“Linutop 3
“Little computers are all the rage and the Linutop 3 from France
delivers small in both size and in power requirements. The Linutop
3 box measures about 23.5 cm square and 5.5 cm thick (9.25 inches
by 2.17 inches). From a power perspective, the unit draws an energy
efficient 20w.”
5 Little Linux Computers
By
Paul Ferrill
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