Chromebit

[Rooftop]

This is pretty cool. The obvious use is education,  but at $85 for a working computer  there will be many others

http://techcrunch.com/2015/11/17/google-and-asus-launch-the-85-chromebit-a-chrome-os-desktop-on-an-hdmi-stick/#.mww5267:CqdD

[littleman]

I'm sure something like this is going to be how we all do our computing someday.  Maybe this plus a headset.

[rcjordan]

I could use Win10 on a stick to run DeLorme navigation and other stand-alone programs in the motorhome. A laptop, even Louise's tiny R7 Toughbook, is overkill.

http://bgr.com/2015/03/18/windows-10-pc-on-a-stick/

[Rooftop]

I'm sure something like this is going to be how we all do our computing someday.  Maybe this plus a headset.

I don't think you are wrong.  I suspect it will be part of our phone as well.

Keyboard is always the limiting factor.  Once we move away from those it gets really interesting.  In the mean time being able to stick you computer in your pocket and plug into any monitor/keyboard is pretty cool.  I do wonder whether even that is needed though.  ChromeOS is pretty impressive, but do you even need a personal device? Everything is in the cloud anyway, we're pretty much full circle with mainframe + terminals.

[rcjordan]

Ordered one of these to test:

"Intel Compute Stick is a new generation of ultra-slim devices that enables you to transform any HDMI display (TV/Monitors) into a fully functional computer. It provides the power, reliability, and graphics needed for a seamless experience with the Intel Atom Quad-Core processor. The device is versatile for usages across PC-like embedded, business, and consumer segments. Connect. Compute. It's that Simple! Intel has crammed in a quad-core Atom CPU, 32GB of storage and 2GB of RAM, along with a USB port, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0 support and a mini-USB connector for power, Pre-installed 32-bit OS: Windows 10 and micro SD card slot for additional storage"

from the review:

"uses a bit less than 3Watts of power, boots quickly. .... The base 32G is about half used by Windows 10 and supporting files. Still that leaves a comfortable 15G on the built-in SSD ... good idea to get a USB hub also since there is only one USB2.0 port ... maybe pick up a powered hub .... comes with a short HDMI extender cable ... does not need to be stuck directly into the monitor. ... usb micro-b power adapter and cable with ample power of 2A. I measured the compute stick drawing less than 1A."

Win10 preloaded, $134: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014N4CZE2

Win 8.1 closeout, $114: http://www.amazon.com/Intel-Compute-Stick-Windows-BOXSTCK1A32WFC/dp/B00W8T61O0/

[rcjordan]

I need touchscreen for my application. They are still in the $200 range for 9-10 inch range. I happened across this W8.1 hybrid tablet with decent specs for $200, so I canceled the stick and ordered the hybrid.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012NFW6EM

[rcjordan]

update:

so far, this thing performs surprisingly well. Not snappy, but your average 2yr-old-laptop speed.

[rcjordan]

Ipad killer. Just ordered one for Louise.