Orion PDA - A small low-power pocket computer with a monochrome display, good quality DAC, and a solar panel in the lid (and it might actually be useful since it uses so little power).

4 months ago by ProdigalFrog to c/permacomputing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCrfgu6vQew The smartphone has become so dominant in daily life that it's hard to remember what it felt like to carry a device that did only a handful of things. Every swipe, tap, and notification competes for your attention, turning what was once a communication tool into a cycle of endless distraction. The maker community,

Creator of the PDA's website here: https://orionpda.org/

More up to date video of improved prototype (without the computer voice)

Thought this was quite an interesting little device, particularly it's screen has a much higher refresh-rate than e-ink, but with similar power-draw, allowing it to play video quite well (in black and white), and potentially making it an interesting platform to develop apps or games for.

mrlockthorne 8 points 4 months ago

Amazing! I love it!

Edit: I think I would do so much coding and listening to music on this thing

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kibblebits 6 points 4 months ago

Where can I buy just that keyboard? I’m dying for a good thumb keyboard with all the required buttons.

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ProdigalFrog 4 points 4 months ago

I imagine it might be custom to this device, though possible it's an off the shelf part.

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