Atmel is now sampling an ARM9-based system-on-chip (SoC) that runs Linux and targets "power-constrained applications that also need high performance." The AT91SAM9G20 consumes a maximum of 80mW, has twice the clock speed of its predecessor, four times the cache, and a host of standard interfaces.

FIRST TIER Taiwanese motherboard vendor Asus confirmed Wednesday that it will extend inclusion of Splashtop Linux from just a few of its most expensive models to more products and eventually throughout its entire product range.

Verizon Wireless is backing a free operating system that competes with programs from Microsoft Corp., Google Inc. and Qualcomm Inc. and expects it to become the "preferred" software on its network.

Much like the Asus Eee PC before it, the Linux-based Shuttle KPC K-4500 will impress the tech savvy--especially the Linux comfortable. You can strip it down, expand it, or simply use it as basic day-to-day desktop. You can even put a photo in the removable front panel. Because of its low price, we can also see bestowing this system on a nontech savvy loved one.

Micro/sys has announced the first single-board computer (SBC) combining its StackableUSB expansion bus with an ARM-based Intel XScale processor. Intended as an industrial controller or protocol converter, the RCB1626 runs Linux, has dual 10/100 Ethernet ports, and operates from -40 to 85 degC, the company says.

Contendo Systems announced two flat-panel PCs that run Linux or Windows CE, and can use PoE (power over Ethernet). The ITP-070 and ITP-104 feature touchscreen displays, microSD storage, sealed aluminum cases, and Marvell PXA270 or PXA320 processors running at up to 806MHz.

Win Enterprises is shipping a single-board computer (SBC) that supports two 45nm Quad-Core Intel Xeon processors with extended lifecycle support. The Linux-compatible MB-60630 offers a dual-socketed PICMG 1.3 format, and targets military systems, medical imaging, scientific analysis, digital media, and oil and gas exploration.

Xandros, which makes the Windows-like Linux distribution used in Asus's popular Eee PC sub-laptop, has signed a deal with information-management software maker Viyya Technologies to jointly target portable devices such as laptops and mobile internet devices.

A value-added reseller of mobile computers and PDAs has ported Linux to a ruggedized, "military-grade" PDA. SDG Systems is offering the "Nomad" from Tripod Data Systems (TDS) pre-installed with Angstrom Linux and Qtopia PDA Edition, and bundled with a toolsuite and build environment based on OpenEmbedded.

Tilera introduced a Linux-based development kit for its scalable, 64-core Tile64 SoC (system-on-chip). The company also announced a dual 10GbE PCIExpress card based on the chip (pictured at left), revealed a networking customer win with Napatech, and demo'd the Tile64 running real-time 1080P HD video.

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