Affordable computer company Hackboard has introduced what it says is one of the lowest-priced Intel-powered and Windows-based single-board computers (SBCs) ever.
Priced at $99 with Ubuntu Linux or $140 with Windows 10 Pro, the Hackboard 2 is offered as an affordable, powerful, flexible computer about the size of a smartphone but with the power of a desktop computer. With optional 4G or 5G connectivity, it can connect to the internet from almost anywhere, making it ideal for students, teachers, families and makers alike.
"We believe computing should be more affordable so that those who don't have access to computers and the internet today can get access," says Mike Callow, Hackboard co-founder and CEO. "Nearly half of all homes worldwide do not have a computer – what's often called the Digital Divide. Our mission is to provide an affordable computer that solves this global problem."
Hackboard 2 comes with a variety of features:
- Intel Celeron N4020 Dual-Core Processor, 64-bit, up to 2.8 GHz
- 4 GB DDR4 memory
- 64 GB eMMC storage
- Two M.2 slots for up to 4 additional terabytes of storage
- Intel UHD graphics
- Three high-speed USB 3.0 ports
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1
- Optional 4G or 5G
- 40-pin GPIO header
- HDMI 2.1 (4K)
- Python software
- Headphone jack
- Included power supply
Expansion kits include a keyboard, webcam, monitor, stand and more, creating a complete Hackboard ecosystem. For makers and hobbyists, Hackboard 2 includes Python software and works with a variety of add-ons.
Users can design a host of projects, such as:
- Entertainment systems, including media servers
- Remote Desktop to access your home office from anywhere
- Home automation to manage smart-home peripherals, IoT appliances
- Sensor gateways, such as industrial monitors
- A host of STEM applications using the GPIO pin header
Hackboard 2 is available now. Additional expansion kits are also available.
