Dell is planning to release a 3.5 inch PC that plugs into a web connected TV or computer monitor, in the latest example of cloud computing.
The $100 device, currently being developed under the name ‘Project Ophelia’, is similar to a wide USB memory stick, and works via Android applications and wi-fi access to Dell’s PocketCloud desktop service.
The “thumbtop” computer stores all content and programs or apps on the Internet. Keyboards, mice and speakers talk to the device wirelessly, and power is pulled from the monitor or TV.
Dell claims the device will run on just 1 watt of power, compared to 300 watts for the average desktop PC.
This Wi-Fi enabled device is designed to be plugged into something, most likely a monitor or TV. It has two USB ports for a keyboard and a mouse and, alternatively, Bluetooth capability. It displays at 1080p and can support touch screens.
The device will be powered by an ARM system-on-a-chip manufactured by an undisclosed vendor.
The “Project Ophelia” product was developed by Dell’s Wyse unit, which is long known for making thin clients.
The device will run Android OS Jelly Bean, have 8GB of memory to support applications, music, video and presentations, and a microSD slot up to 32GB of storage.
The ideal connection is through a Mobile High Definition Link (MHL) enabled interface to a monitor.
The MHL Consortium, whose founders include Nokia, Samsung, Sony and Toshiba, says there are more than 200 unique MHL-enabled products available today.
Ophelia can also be powered through a USB port.
Jeff McNaught, executive director of marketing and chief strategy officer for Dell Cloud Client Computing, says “the use cases [for the device] are incredibly broad.”
The education market, for instance, has lot of potential uses, he said.
Schools could provide the devices to students instead of tablets or PCs. A student can plug the device into monitors at home and school.
Businesses could use it like they use thin clients today. Deployment of the Ophelia device may be a little easier, with less wires and easy portability.
The device was unveiled at CES last month, and is set to be available by June.
The announcement came as Dell unveiled a $24.4 billion deal to be taken private by a group led by founder Michael Dell and private-equity firm Silver Lake Partners.
