Tech Gear Bleg
I’m looking to possibly get involved in some traveling activism projects. Anybody that can help me out with getting an inexpensive but rugged Linux netbook and a similarly small and rugged video camera, please let me know via the contact form on this web site.
UPDATE: A friend writes…
Share ThisI use a Dell Inspiron mini 9, you can occasionally get them on sale for $199 with Ubuntu pre-installed, ubfortunatly, that ships with a 4GB SSD. You can max out the RAM (2GB) for $25 and upgrade to a FAST 32GB SSD by Runcore for $130 shipped. There are other, cheaper brands but they are much slower. You will be able to pick them up for even cheaper with 3G wireless and a contract from AT&T soon, but I don’t know if they have any linux offerings.
As far as activist video goes, I recommend a Flip Video Ultra, 60 minutes of flash memory for $130 shipped. 640×480, handles low light better than the Creative Vado, decent sound, & works well with Ubuntu.
Brad — I’ll add my voice to the chorus on the mini 9 - I recently sold mine (since I really didn’t have as much use for it), but it is solidly built, runs Ubuntu well (particularly if you nix the existing somewhat neutered Dell install of Ubuntu and re-install a full version), and has a very usable keyboard.
-olly