TECHNOLOGY - INTEL CLIMATE PROOF COMMUNITY PC

 

 

Bugs, heat or power failure can't put this Intel PC down

Intel demos niche computer for developing nations.

BY OUR TECH CORRESPONDENT

24th August, 2005: Intel is promising a weather proof-PC for the developing nations. The computer, displayed at the Intel developer forum, can work with intermittent electricity, dust and bugs, and harsh climates. The rugged Intel PC can access the internet even as it is tackles the tackles the environment. May be what a lot of poor nations with bad infrastructure wants is the rugged Intel PC. The latest Intel PC is part of the San Francisco-based company's attempts to address the problems in unique geographical stuations.

The Intel processor based personal computer, or "community computer," is targeted to bring the Web to whole communities and rural areas in remote villages. Backed by a car battery, the Intel computer has backup power which can keep the machine rnning even if the power supply is sporadic and unreliable. The computer is also fitted with filters and screens which will block dust and bugs which may try to enter the computer cabinet. It is also built to withstand very high temperature levels, crossing 100 degrees Fahrenheit (more than 38 degrees Celsius).

A WiMax wireless device links the Intel computer to the Internet. WiMAX (or Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), is a wireless broadband technology which promises to provide high-speed Internet access to homes, communities, businesses and mobile wireless networks across very long distances, making it an ideal way to connetc whole communities and cities without using wires.

Intel has not clarified when the technoloiges used for building the rugged PC will be adopted by PC makers for commercialisation. Intel Developer Forum is the premier global technology forum for hardware and software developers to confer on Intel-based platforms, technologies and solutions. Over 25,000 techies converge at IDF in more than a dozen countries each year. 

BY OUR TECH CORRESPONDENT