EMTEC Bows Linux-Based Netbook

By Colleen Bohen -- TWICE, 1/16/2009

Columbus, Ohio — EMTEC unveiled its Gdium netbook this month that it said will retail for under $400.

The device features a 10-inch display offering A 1,024 by 600 resolution and is said to have a full keyboard. Internally, the netbook features a processor based on MIPS-64 architecture from ST Microelectronics.

The Linux-based system comes equipped with a variety of software including a Firefox Web browser,

Thunderbird e-mail client, and programs designed for instant messaging, VoIP, blog editing, playing audio/video, security and an Open Office suite of applications.

The company says a USB device called the G-Key stores the operating system, applications and personal data. The G-Key is said to allow each user to store their personal information and preferences “without leaving a trace on the computer.”

“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,” said Chris Mack, EVP sales and marketing, EMTEC, North America.

The device comes in white, black or pink.