On Aug 31, 2013 1:01 PM, "Richard Gaskin" wrote: > > I like the idea of a cheap computer, but it seems the LiveCode build for Linux/ARM needed to run on the Raspberry Pi is still only in its early stage - here's a blog entry that includes a link to download a test build if you're feeling adventurous: > <http://livecode.com/blog/2013/02/20/livecode-on-raspberry-pi/>
For me personally, I would rather see an IDE for Android. Listers will likely say, "Tablets are too small for productivity". At least that's what I've heard before. But think about it. Most have HDMI out, and USB. Attach a wireless keyboard and mouse, hook it up to a 1080p monitor or TV, and bam! it's a computer. Who says it has to be a tablet though? Forgo the touch screen, and use a $50 Android stick, and you have an ultra portable (even pocketable) computer. > > But the long wait for that LiveCode/ARM build has given me time to ponder: What exactly is the advantage of a Raspberry Pi over other motherboards that have onboard CPUs? > > After all, the Pi isn't a computer per se, just a mobo; you still need to add a power supply, case, and SD card to become a usable system, just like any other mobo. And you need to download and install Linux. > > But most of the other mobos available have Via or Atom processors, so while they're not as energy-efficient as the older ARM chips the Pi uses, they're still reasonably efficient and MUCH more powerful. > > And best of all, they can be used with LiveCode right now, server and desktop. > I love the small Atom boxes. But you must admit, a tiny server running on a cheap headless Android stick would be incredible. > For example, the Raspberry Pi Model B sells in the US for $49 at NewEgg, but a Via mobo with an x86 VX900 CPU is just $59, and for $69 you can get one with an Intel Atom 2550 loaded with ports: > <http://www.newegg.com/Embedded-Solution/SubCategory/ID-446?Order=PRICE> > > And if you want a case and power supply included with an Atom-powered system, small-form-factor barebones nettops are available as low as $129: > < http://www.newegg.com/Mini-Booksize-Barebone-Systems/SubCategory/ID-309?Order=PRICE > > > While the Pi's modest power makes it difficult to use many Linux distros on, most x86 mobos will generally run even Ubuntu's Unity interface gracefully. > > And we can run LiveCode on them today. > > So help me out here: What am I not seeing about the attraction to Raspberry Pi? > > Why isn't the world just as excited about spending just an extra few bucks to get a more useful x86 system? In a word, "nerdism". The Pi is attractive to those who want to tinker at the lowest levels of tech. The case isn't important. The cool factor is saying hey, I have a computer running in a zip lock bag, etc. > > -- > Richard Gaskin > Fourth World ~Roger _______________________________________________ use-livecode mailing list use-livecode@lists.runrev.com Please visit this url to subscribe, unsubscribe and manage your subscription preferences: http://lists.runrev.com/mailman/listinfo/use-livecode
