Dust Storms, (Real) Bugs, Intermittent Electricity Or No Phone Lines?
Intel Says ‘No Problem’
Intel Corporation today showcased a rugged PC designed for developing countries that can better handle harsh climates,
intermittent electricity, dust and bugs while accessing the internet without wires. The effort is an example of the
company’s strategy to best address unique geographic and individual technology needs in all parts of the world.
On stage and via video from India at the Intel Developer Forum today, the Intel-based PC, or ‘community computer,’ is
meant to provide internet access to entire communities and villages in rural and remote areas. Through use of a car
battery, the computer has a back-up energy supply in case electricity supply is sporadic and contains special screens
and filters to reduce the amount of dust and insects that might enter the box and cause reliability issues. The computer
has also been designed to handle extreme heat that exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit (more than 38 degrees Celsius).
The demonstration PC also linked to the internet via a WiMAX wireless network. WiMAX, short for Worldwide
Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a standards-based
wireless broadband technology that can provide high-speed internet connections to homes, communities, businesses and
mobile wireless networks across many miles, making it an ideal way to unwire entire communities and cities.
Intel neither confirmed if or when the concept platform might be developed by local PC makers in India or elsewhere, nor
provided any other details.
About IDF
Now in its ninth year, IDF is the premier global technology forum for hardware and software developers to confer on
Intel-based platforms, technologies and solutions and the new usage models they enable. More than 25,000 technology
experts come together at IDF in more than a dozen countries each year. Visit www.intel.com/idf for more information.
Intel, the world’s largest chip maker, is also a leading manufacturer of computer, networking and communications
products. Additional information about Intel is available at www.intel.com/pressroom.
ENDS
* Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others. Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation
or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.