Johannesburg – A California startup plans to create a micro-computer that will cost just $9, or around R110. The company, Next Thing, was originally looking for $50,000 to build the device but to date its Kickstarter campaign has already ammassed $664,000 from more than 13 000 backers.
The Chip, as the device is known, will be significantly cheaper than the popular Raspberry Pi micro computer - that sells for between R400 and R600 locally - but has many of the same features as the Pi.
The Chip will have a 1GHz processsor, 512MB of Ram and 4GB of on-board storage. Unlike the Raspberry Pi the Chip includes built in WiFI and Bluetooth. On the other hand it doesn't include an HDMI port like the Pi but ships with a composite video out port instead. Adding an HDMI port to the Chip raises the price to around $24. For older monitors Chip is also available with a VGA adapter.
Like the Pi, the Chip can be plugged into a TV or monitor (depending on video connection) and runs a version of the Linux operating system. The Chip also includes a case with a keyboard, a 4.3-inch touch screen and a battery capable of running the device for up to five hours.
The Chip will begin shipping in January 2016.