SBC (single board computers)

[bluepin]

I am sure many of you went through this search, but I just need some advice. I have been using arduino's and launchpads for a while now and they are great and inexpensive but for any more complex applications I always end up just using them as a laptop extension to get GPIO ports and connectivity to the real world.
The search for a system that can run and embedded Linux, RTEMS or any embedded systems OS took me to many platforms, none under $100 (http://www.linuxfordevices.com/c/a/Linu ... inux-SBCs/) . Raspberry PI (http://www.raspberrypi.org/) at $25 looks great when it will be ready, unfortunately it does not seem to be generous with GPIO ...

So guys, is there anything in the $50-$75 range that can run an OS, have networking and usb programmable ?
If no, at least I can stop searching for it

Eugen

[adafruit]

the chumby hacker board http://www.adafruit.com/category/46 is a linux SBC that can do everything you're asking for

[bluepin]

the chumby hacker board http://www.adafruit.com/category/46 is a linux SBC that can do everything you're asking for

True, except that adding networking (wireless or wired over USB) will get you just over that $100 limit I was talking.
I am not trying to be a cheapskate, I just want to make sure I am not missing anything in my search.
The around $100 android tablets I saw would be great candidates as well since you get a battery, touchscreen and all sorts of networking options - too bad any documentation and hardware specs are so hard to get for them.

[westfw]

There are a number of linux-based home appliances that have "development environments" and will run hacked versions of linux (and user applications, with some effort.) The most obvious are the packaged Chumbies (recently on sale for $60) and assorted wireless routers, set top boxes, pogoplugs, and etc... In general, whole consumer devices are going to be cheaper than equivalent DIY parts. (sigh.)

[cciarleg]

I know its out of the given price range by a bit, but I fell in love with Gumstix a few years back. They have a lot of capability for a small package and for what you get, the price is good.

Maybe too much for this project, but I thought they were solid and they have pretty amazing support forums. You can get wired, wireless, and a large array of expansion boards if you need them as well. I actually like them for more advanced high altitude balloon applications.
http://www.gumstix.com/store/index.php?cPath=27

Again, a little expensive, but I have also heard good things about the Beagle Board. (~150)

Agree with the above post though-its hard to find anything under 100, but you can get pretty close.

[bluepin]

There is a plethora of really good and powerful devices out there. Sometimes hard to choose any one in particular.

The arduino proved to be a really successful story in for the DIY community and I think it won't take long until someone steps in to fill the niche I described.
Just in case something will come up in the future, please don't be shy to post to this thread.

Thanks,
Eugen