Power Scheme for OLPC Project Falling Into Place

robotrachel writes "According to Technology Review, the $100 laptop intended for children in the developing world will be powered in much the same way that you might start an outboard motor on a boat. The new power system will 'make the laptop much easier to power than it would be with a hand crank, in part, because the users will be able to operate the generator in a variety of ways, including holding the device (the size of two hockey pucks) in one hand and pulling the string with the other, or clamping the generator to a desk, attaching the string to one foot, and using leg power.'" There are plenty of sewing machine treadles in the world, too -- I hope someone can figure out a way to combine them with the new design.

Comments

Re:Do they really need a computer

[Ksevio]

Well you know the old saying about the man and the fish.

Sure you can give them food and water, but if you also try and get them computers to learn then they might be able to pull future generations out of poverty and improve the overall living conditions of everyone in the area.

Re:Solar Cells?

[Surt]

Probably not ...

1) Doesn't work in the dark.
2) Expensive (that little one, only powerful enough to charge a cell phone battery, $30 ... this is the $100 laptop).