CloudWare, a MICROmega Group company, has launched its palm-sized CloudGate Square computer running the Microsoft Windows 8.1 operating system.
Building on the success of the CloudGate X Android computer it brought to market last year, the CloudGate Square is designed to provide business users and consumers with a powerful but affordable tower replacement that is incredibly energy-efficient.
Drawing less than 15 watts of power (approximately the same as an energy-saving light bulb), the CloudGate Square runs an Intel Quad-Core Atom processor and a solid state drive for storage. Users simply connect it to an external display, mouse, and keyboard to access all their normal applications, e-mail, backup, and storage from the cloud.
"The CloudGate Square is developed around the concept of a hybrid computing environment. This means that it is not only a very effective cloud computing tool, but also a powerful machine to run local applications and services. Being a Windows-based system means users have access to an extensive driver ecosystem that supports a plethora of peripherals," says Brian Timperley, MD of CloudWare.
Unlike a traditional computer that features a multitude of different components such as a graphics card, hard drive, memory, and so on, the CloudGate Square is built with all these elements combined on a single solid chip.
"Desktop computers experience some performance degradation when these additional components are introduced. But with the integration of these components on a single chip with the Square, you get a computer that might have an entry-level price but can outperform many more expensive systems," adds Timperley.
For Timperley, the energy-efficiency of the device is especially relevant for the African market.
"The most expensive element in such a set-up is the solar, and so by drastically reducing the power required to run 17 computers, significant cost savings were achieved. We have already partnered with several businesses who build classrooms in containers that run on solar panels. Previously, these panels could power one or two computers, but with the Square they can now run an entire classroom."
Business users are also benefiting from the CloudGate Square.
"With the ability to reset to factory default, companies no longer need to worry about maintaining users' computers. If something goes wrong with the CloudGate Square, it is as easy as resetting it and getting the user up and running within minutes, increasing productivity. Users' documents and information remain secure and always available through your choice of cloud services."
With the device being so affordable, companies can stock up on units and replace existing machines as needed.
"Considering how expensive IT support calls can become for organisations of all sizes, it is easier to replace the Square with a new device than it is for a technician to come and fix it," he concludes.
CloudGate has partnered with several retailers to sell the device. The device will also qualify for the free Windows 10 upgrade once it becomes available at the end of July.
The specifications of the CloudGate Square are as follows:
* Intel Atom Quad Core 1.33Ghz CPU
* 2GB RAM
* 32GB SSD
* Micro-SD slot - storage support up to 64GB
* WiFi 802.11 b/g/n 10/100Mbps
* Bluetooth
* Ethernet
* Runs on less than 15W of power
For more information, visit www.cloudgate.co.za.
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