Brand New Computer for $199

I am getting really excited!!

Ubuntu Linux, Splashtop motherboards, [1] fast Internet connections, and Web 2.0 are all starting to bring us to the next generation of Microsoft-free, cheap computing. At least 80% of the computer users I help in their homes or offices do not really need or utilize the power of a full blown Windows (or Mac) computer. You've heard this soap box from me before; computer users who only use word processors, basic games, light digital photography, email and Internet can get by without any problems with a much more basic computer.

Today, I read an article about WalMart's foray into selling a basic Linux computer...for $199 [2]! The only thing it doesn't include is a monitor, but that can be found for around $100 right next to the computers. I don't want to insinuate that Linux is an inferior operating system to Microsoft Windows. It has all the potential of Windows, just in a different package and simpler to use...especially for beginners. WalMart joins Dell who started selling Ubuntu machines in May of this year.

Also, today, Adam found and sent me this article [3] about a $299 laptop recently announced that starts in 5-10 seconds. Based on the company selling it and the description, I'm assuming it is a Splashtop machine or derivative.

All extremely interesting and ground breaking news in the computer industry.

If this helped, consider buying me a beer or an Americano! [4]

Links:
[1] http://www.helpmerick.com/splashtop_instant_instant.htm
[2] http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=7754614
[3] http://www.brighthand.com/default.asp?newsID=13177
[4] https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=rick@yourpcpartner.com&item_name=Buy
[5] http://www.yourpcpartner.com/xbox_360_nyko_intercooler_overheat_problems.htm
[6] http://www.yourpcpartner.com/yahoo_vs_google_theres_something_say_simplicity.htm