Enabling the Next 1 billion
With a current global PC usage rate of just 15%, equalizing the world's access to ICT requires addressing a multitude of factors, including such issues as new markets, environments, usage models and products. Interwoven within each issue are a range of daunting social, economic, technological, deployment and even political challenges. VIA is meeting these challenges head on through their innovative and inspirational pc-1 vision, a vision which includes a world of possibilities beyond the gateway.
pc-1 is not just groundbreaking technology it is a whole community. Within the realm of new markets exist both ideas and concerns of reaching beyond individual ownership of a PC to the provision of community and assisted access. Realizing that even systems priced under $US300 are still unattainable for many requires the fostering of different approaches to access. For example, community access entails pay-for-use schemes through the establishment of Internet cafes and local kiosks. By paying for usage, such facilities ideally become self-sustaining. In the case of rural and impoverished areas, assisted access becomes a more viable answer. Under this approach, governments and international bodies and NGOs provide the necessary funding and infrastructure to establish and maintain information access points.
VIA pc-1 systems are physically designed to be able to brave going where most technology cannot. The incorporation of features such as ultra energy efficiency, utilizing up to 70% less energy than competing systems, outstanding performance per watt and a "smart" architecture that enables alternative power source usage and last mile connectivity technology, provide an incomparable synergy and product for emerging markets. Furthermore, the PHD (power, heat and dust) design provides the rugged ability to withstand heat and dust in harsh environments.
Through the incorporation of thoughtful, pragmatic and reputable design features, such as: a tasteful, space-saving design; dust protection covers; cool operation to minimize heat-damaged components; expandability options; advanced digital media applications such as 3D graphics, DVD playback, audio and videoconferencing; and an average system power draw of under 70 watts; all in addition to a standardized productivity suite, web browsing and email programs make for the quintessential computing system for emerging markets. pc-1 provides a system, which is not only priced right, but also considerably less expensive to operate and maintain then the average PC.
pc-1 brings together business ingenuity with corporate responsibility and altruism. Helping build skills and literacy throughout the world, and incorporating and preserving cultural content are goals now within our grasp. Information is the oxygen to nurturing social mobility, economic equality and development and global democracy. Providing, not just the tools and the know-how, but the support and the maintenance, is all part of what makes pc-1 the next generation of information technology, the next generation of global development.
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