A real, live computer for under Rs. 10,000 (fwd)

["Frederick Noronha" <fred@bytesforall.org>]

Thanks to Sunil of Mahiti.org for posting this via BytesForAllReaders
list. FN

---------- Forwarded message ----------

A real, live computer for under Rs. 10,000? No, we're not talking
about the Simputer here. But hold your horses: Take a close look at
the catches before you rush to your nearest dealer. 

The Internet-ready machine starting from Rs. 9,990 on offer from
Singapore-based component distributor eSys Distribution comes only
with Linux for an operating system. Want Windows? The company claims
that's possible, but won't undertake to resolve software-related
problems if the user wishes to go with good old Microsoft. Of course,
you also have to buy your own monitor. 

The machines come fitted with VIA C3 800 processors instead of the 
regulation Intel Pentiums or even AMD's chips.  

"We have chosen Linux to keep the machine affordable as well as to 
capitalise on other Linux advantages like virus protection and 
stability. Our machines will continue to give same performance in 
case of Windows operating system, but the company will not resolve 
software related problems," eSys Distribution managing director Vikas 
Goel said.  

The company has announced the launch of three different models in the 
Indian market.  

The first and basic model includes a VIA processor, 64 MB Hynix RAM, 
20 GB Seagate hard drive, Aztec internal modem along with standard 
components like mouse, keyboard and floppy disk drive.  

The second model, which has similar configuration, except for more 
memory using a 128 MB RAM, an LG CD-ROM and speakers, is priced at 
Rs. 11,990.  

The third model has a motherboard with TV output, 256 MB, 40GB hard 
disk and either a DVD or a CD writer. Priced at Rs. 16,990, the 
highest model is sleek and looks like a video cassette recorder (VCR) 
to position it as a living room infotainment appliance.  

"You can use this machine as audio player, video player, a gaming 
console and as a multimedia computer," said Goel.  

Goel said that the company was planning a full-steam rollout across 
the country from January next year.  

Meanwhile, the company will complete the background work to prepare 
its channel partners already associated with the company for its 
computer components business.  

The company also has plans to sell the ready-to-assemble kits to 
computer dealers, who can build their own machines.  

"We are also planning to approach television and white goods dealers 
to assemble and sell these machines," Goel said, adding that the 
company was setting up its after sales service and support operations 
to provide back- end support to its dealers.  


- from the following link.
http://www.zdnetindia.com/biztech/enterprise/news/stories/69196.html 

Thanks,

Sunil

=====
Sunil Abraham [MAHITI]
314/1, 7th Cross, Domlur
Bangalore - 560 071 Karnataka, INDIA
Ph/Fax: +91 80 5352003. Pager: 9624 279519
sunil@mahiti.org http://www.mahiti.org

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