The $35 Computer: UK's Raspberry Pi Goes Into Production

As reported in the Wall Street Journal via Big Think:  A British electronics company has begun manufacturing a fully functional computer expected to retail for $35. Called Raspberry Pi, the computer will come with an easily-hacked operating system meant to encourage programming experimentation. [Reportedly, all the buzz created by the computer has started a bidding war on eBay, where offers have reached as high as $3,000, however, after a quick search, I was unable to locate any offers. ] DITHOB reported on its promised development earlier this year.

"The Raspberry Pi is a Linux-based, 700Mhz ARM-powered computer with up to 256MB of flash memory and an HDMI output. Users have to provide their own keyboard, mouse, and monitor.


Development on the Raspberry Pi started three years ago. There is currently a waiting list of more than 10,000 people for the two models, one that will cost $25 and a higher-spec model for $35 (which has more memory and an Ethernet connection).

The less expensive ($25) educational version will go on sale later in the year. They are currently working on a case to protect the board while still allowing schools to modify the device as they wish."

More on the Raspberry Pi Foundation, an organization in the UK dedicated to encouraging the study of computer science, especially at the school level, here and here (official site)