If the 6
Watt Linutop is a Honda Insight – small, not much room or power, but efficient
– then the Enano E2, packing Intel
Core Duo technology, a DVD burner, up to 2GB of RAM and 160GB of storage, is the
Wrightspeed X1 of computing
– small, lightweight, quiet, energy efficient, and somewhat impractical. I love
that they are 70-80% more efficient than a regular desktop, weighing in at around
65 watts power consumption (vs. a typical 300 watt system). The only thing that
bugs me is that for the same price (they start at $650) you could get a laptop
similarly equipped, which would probably draw less power than one of these when
combined with a flat panel monitor. It has optional TV tuner and S-video out,
but if you’re looking for a set-top box you’re probably better off with an appleTV
for downloaded iTunes content or a linux box running MythTV
for DVR functionality – Vista is notoriously crippled when it comes to multimedia,
especially HD content. Lack of component or HDMI outputs make this a non-issue,
though.
An Energy Star partner, Enano Computers envisions themselves as pioneers and revolutionaries:
"Our vision is to provide viable energy efficient alternatives to traditional computer systems. E2s are the latest energy-efficient computer designed for our evolving planet. Our sole mission is to make a real, honest and lasting difference in how people around the world use computer energy."All in all this is a sweet little machine. If you’re running Vista and space is your number one concern (vendors, executives, and astronauts: take note) this little PC, highly reminiscent of the Mac Mini, may be the greenest option available. It’s Energy Star compliant, and it’s made from highly recyclable materials.
via NYTimes.com