I’ve been working with Linux long enough to remember testing a Linux PDA. I even set it up to run an Apache server. Carrying a server around in your pocket was pretty cool. Aside from their clever tricks, most of these Linux PDA devices were pretty terrible. (It was the early days of mobile devices, so everything was terrible by today’s standards.)
Naturally, this morning I mecha comet Handheld Linux computer. This new device is powered by a Debian-based distribution called Mechanix OS. Not only do you get the stability of Debian, but (unlike many handheld devices) you can easily upgrade the OS.
Also: Thanks to Nvidia, a new generation of PCs is coming and will run Linux.
What’s really interesting about Mecha Comet is that it’s all about hardware and software modularity. “Snap-in” extensions allow you to turn Comet into a gaming handheld, or a traditional handheld with keyboard extensions. There is also a GPIO extension for serial console over USB-C. This means you can connect Comet to any sensor or device. Comet is open source, so you can build your own extensions. If you dream it, you can make it happen.
Mecha Comet runs a full version of Linux, so you can turn this device into anything you like, like a Linux phone (with the help of an LTE modem), a drone controller, or a user interface. cars etc. Meka claims it is also possible to launch comets into orbit as part of a microsatellite project.
The Comet is powered by a 1.8 GHz quad-core ARM CPU, 4 GB LPDDR 4 RAM, and 32 GB eMMC storage. It also features a 3.4-inch LED touch display, 2.4 and 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi, 5 MP camera, 3000 mAh battery, M.2 slot, and built-in sensors (gyroscope and RTC).
There’s no limit to what you can accomplish with this device with a little imagination and know-how. Entire devices can be disassembled or 3D printed. This is a repairman’s dream come true.
Currently, Mecha Comet is Pre-sale on Kickstarter Early bird offers start at $159. It has not yet been announced when MechaComet will be launched. Subscribe to project updates To stay informed.
