ASUS Eee PC - Best Low Power Solution for Developing Countries

The ASUS Eee PC has been recommended as the best low power computing solution for developing countries, following the publication of results from an extensive study by UK charity Computer Aid International in April.
 

 
The research into the best low power PCs for use in developing countries was carried out in conjunction with three African universities and the ZDNet technical labs in London. After considering dozens of choices, ZDNet tested 8 computers, resulting in the following shortlist:
 

 
* ASUS Eee PC (overall winner)
* Intel Classmate
* OLPC XO
* Inveneo Computing Station
* Ncomputing X300
 

 
The above five were shipped to three African universities; Kenyatta University (Kenya), Jos University (Nigeria) and the National University of Science and Technology (Zimbabwe). 
 

 
Using in depth qualitative and quantitative testing methods, the study has determined the ASUS Eee PC as the best solution, after it was preferred unanimously by all testing teams and considered to offer the perfect balance between power consumption, performance and portability.

 
The ASUS Eee PC findings were drawn from results of testing such as the installation and testing of additional software, compatibility with other operating systems and internet connection via LAN and wireless networks. In addition tests for video playback, web browser usage and word processing were also conducted. 
 

 
Reporting on the results, the research team at Kenyatta University stated that “Asus had the best solution for an average individual owner and user in rural Africa who needs a low power PC”. 
 

 
Tony Roberts, Founder of Computer Aid International, commented: “Many communities in Africa have no reliable access to mains electricity and are forced to rely on expensive alternatives like solar panels or diesel generators, so we set out to find a low power, low cost solution that will facilitate the availability and use of information technology in those regions.  
 

 
“ICT can play a vital role in economic growth and education provision in the developing world, but it’s vital that we offer equipment that can meet the unique requirements of these countries. By working with ZDNet’s technical labs and three leading African Universities we have been able to accurately assess the performance and suitability of a number of low power computing options in the countries where they are required, to better inform future choices in ICT for education and development.” 
 

 
The full study report is available to download now from:
www.computeraid.org/lowpowerpcs

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