EMTEC’s Gdium netbook, which just last month we learned would sell in the United States, will have its first American showcase today at CES 2009. With dimensions of 9.8 x 7.2 x 1.25 inches, the Gdium weighs in at 2.6 pounds and sports a 10-inch display with 1024 x 600 pixels. Running on a ST Microelectronics-provided MIPS-64 processor, the Gdium uses a version of the Mandriva Linux operating system and all of its software is open source. For example, it uses the Firefox web browser, Thunderbird email client, and the Open Office suite for document editing.
The neat thing about the Gdium is all the software is loaded onto a G-Key, a bootable USB key, that keeps all of your personal information off the computer and safely in your hands. There is no word on a United States release date yet, but the EMTEC Gdium is expected to be priced under $400. The full release is after the cut.
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EMTEC to Reveal Gdium Mobile Netbook at CES
EMTEC has officially launched the Gdium, an ultra-portable, affordable “netbook” computer with a stunning design and innovative architecture entrenched in the open-source world.
Columbus, OHIO January 7, 2009 – EMTEC, a leader in mobile storage solutions and peripherals, has unveiled the Gdium, an ultra-portable, affordable netbook computer, designed to be smart, reliable and stylish.
The EMTEC Gdium is the ultimate mobile computer, weighing in at 2.6 pounds. The Gdium boasts a compact size (9.8 x 7.2 x 1.25 inches), while still offering a web-optimized 1024 x 600 resolution on a notable 10-inch screen. It also comes equipped with a full, comfortable keyboard.
The software application package included with Gdium is based entirely on Open Source software. It includes an extensive variety of programs: Firefox internet browser, Thunderbird e-mail client, instant messaging, VoIP, blog editor, audio/video players and security utilities, as well as a complete Open Office suite of applications for word processing, spreadsheets and presentations.
The Gdium integrates an energy efficient processor and operating system. The processor, based on MIPS-64 architecture, is provided by ST Microelectronics, a tier-one top-quality chip maker. Designed to combine performance and low energy consumption, the Gdium runs on a dedicated and optimized version of Mandriva Linux OS, specially designed for the 64-bit processor.
Unique to the Gdium is the G-Key, a bootable USB key on which the Linux operating system, applications and personal data are stored. The G-Key allows each user to store their personal information and preferences securely, without leaving a trace on the computer.
“The Gdium netbook offering is unique to the marketplace,” said Chris Mack, EVP Sales & Marketing, EMTEC, North America. “The revolutionary new design and the unique synchronization feature of the G-Key separate Gdium from the rest of the pack. With a sub-$400 retail price point, we believe EMTEC will become a key player in the netbook market.”
Gdium also has a dedicated website, which features an online, social networking environment and provides multimedia resources as well as educational content aimed at students. The Gdium website provides a range of communication tools and services, from e-mail to chat forums, social networking, blogs and dedicated news forums in a safe, user-friendly environment.
The EMTEC Gdium also features an exclusive array of accessories and travel bags. To find out more about EMTEC Gdium products and accessories, please visit www.emtecelectronics.com.
About EMTEC
EMTEC, the inventor of the first magnetic tape for audio recording (as BASF), boasting more than seventy years of experience, is a widely recognized brand in Europe and now in the United States. EMTEC offers a large range of consumer IT solutions, from USB flash drives to netbooks. For more information, please visit www.emtecelectronics.com.
