Archive notice: This article was originally published on June 12, 2008. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
EMTEC’s new Gdium netbook offers pure mobility. With it, the company is entering a completely new product category and aims to continue the success of its multimedia division there. The literally “pocket-sized” netbook is suitable for families and power users alike. In addition to its internal qualities, Gdium also makes a strong visual statement. The netbook will be available from September for less than €399.
The small device is ultralight, and its compact dimensions make it an ideal companion on the go. As a particularly distinctive feature, Gdium does without a hard drive. All programs and data are stored on the G-Key, a type of USB stick. This allows storage capacity to be expanded continually without difficulty, while each user can save personal data and programs on their own G-Key.
Its fashionable, stylish appearance also makes the Gdium netbook a real eye-catcher. Gdium is ideal especially for users who travel frequently and do not want to carry a lot of baggage. The netbook fits easily into any backpack and almost any handbag.
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The diminutive device (250x182x32 mm) weighs just 1.1 kilograms. Whether traveling, at university or at home, Gdium is the perfect companion. Despite its compact design, the 10-inch display with 1024×600 resolution provides a clear view when browsing, writing emails and creating documents. An 8.9-inch version of the notebook will come to market later in the year.
The notebook has three USB ports, an SD HC reader supporting storage capacities of up to 32 GB, Wi-Fi compatibility, an Ethernet port, an integrated webcam, a VGA output, and microphone and headphone connections. When used at a desk, external hard drives, a DVD player, printer or camera can also be connected.
G-Key with Plenty of Free Software
The G-Key comes with a large open-source software package that includes the Firefox browser and Thunderbird email client, among other applications. It also includes the OpenOffice suite, which is compatible with all other common office applications.
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The G-Key plugs into the front of the Gdium and is supplied in capacities of 8 and 16 GB. This makes it exceptionally easy to increase the notebook’s storage capacity. The next generation of G-Keys will also include SIM and Micro SD card readers.
Thanks to the G-Key, each Gdium can be used by multiple users with their individual settings. The desktop environment can be configured and personal data saved. If the G-Key is stolen or lost, users can restore its contents via the Internet or a backup system. Because the data is not stored on the notebook itself, it is also immune to system crashes.
Gdium uses Mandriva Linux as its operating system. The various open-source applications are grouped into Internet, entertainment, multimedia, workspace and other categories, and can be accessed through icons. Gdium users can also add their own Internet applications to the desktop.
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Building on EMTEC’s experience with peripheral devices, a whole range of additional products will be available for Gdium starting in September. G-USB sticks or SDHC cards can increase storage capacity to as much as 32 GB. The G-Bluetooth dongle and G-DVBT dongle provide even more multimedia enjoyment. A hub, speakers and a mouse for home use will soon come to market. Bags designed to provide suitable, secure protection for every use will ensure safe transport.
Learning Platform to Be Installed
Gdium is an affordable, multidimensional device. It is designed to collect and process information, acquire knowledge and support learning. It is suitable for power users as well as families and students.
In addition, a learning platform designed specifically for school and university students will be launched in the near future.
The 10-inch version of Gdium will be available from September for less than €399, including the G-Key. This makes Gdium suitable for the whole family. The high-quality notebook will initially be offered in white, black and pink, with more colors to follow soon.
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