The Gdium is a subnotebook / netbook computer produced by EMTEC. The Gdium product is distinguished by its unique LoongsonMIPS processor and the use of a USB key as a primary storage device. The Gdium netbook is marketed as an interface device to the Gdium "learning community"—a website that provides hardware support, MIPS builds of open-source software, Linux computing tips, and educational resources targeted towards teachers and students within the K-12 demographic.
Technical overview
The EMTEC Gdium Liberty 1000 is built on an STMicroelectronicsLoongson 2F MIPS microprocessor and uses a proprietary form-factored USB key, called the G-Key, as its primary storage medium. The G-Key, which fits in a specially designed USB slot recessed within the unit, is available in 8GB and 16GB capacities. The key generates no noise, and is less susceptible to mechanical shock damage than hard drives[citation needed]. It also includes an SD card reader, which provides support for MMC, SD and SDHC cards as supplemental storage.
Speakers/headset Output: 1 port for 3.5mm audio jack
Microphone Input: 1 port for 3.5mm microphone jack
Dimensions: 250 x 182 x 32 mm
Weight: 1.2 kg
Starting phase
Gdium was originally planned for release in September 2008,[3] but after multiple hardware and software glitches attributed to poorly managed contracted labor across France[4] and China,[5] the product was delayed until end of February 2009 for its soft launch. Gdium's soft launch was on the Belgium market and received a mild user acceptance.
The target price of the Gdium at Euro 379[3] makes the Gdium an expensive and poorly valued netbook given its modest hardware and short battery life. Analysts have wondered if a market actually exist for it.[6]
Status
Website went down around Sept 2013. It's unsure if the community is still alive elsewhere.
