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A novel idea in computing - just in time for the holiday! The Zonbu is a dream come true for many. For only $99, you can buy this innovative new desktop computer that is preloaded with FULL versions (not trials) of 20 popular software packages. Sound too good to be true? Well read on...

The software that is included with the Zonbu is Open Source software that emulates the popular Microsoft packages:

• Word Processor - Open and save Microsoft Word documents.
• Spreadsheet — a powerful spreadsheet program with all the tools you need to calculate, analyze, and present your data. Open and save Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.
• Presentation — fast, powerful software for creating effective multimedia slide presentations. Open and save Microsoft PowerPoint presentations
• Draw — a drawing program that lets you produce everything from simple diagrams to dynamic 3D illustrations.
• Database — create and modify tables, forms, queries, and reports. (Similar to Access)
• Math — an advanced math program lets you create mathematical equations with a graphical user interface or by directly typing your formulas into the equation editor.
  Adobe Acrobat Reader — view PDF files.
• Personal Finance Manager - Manage your checkbook and your personal finances.
  Web Browser Firefox
• Full-featured Email and Calendar program - Emulates Outlook
• Single-stop Instant Messenger that works with AOL, MSN, Yahoo, ICQ and IRC networks.
• Pre-installed Internet phone service Skype Coupons -- Skype provides free calling from your Zonbu to any PC and low-cost calls to landline and mobile phones.
• Peer-to-Peer clients supporting Bit Torrent and other standard protocols such as eMule and eDonkey. Share video, music and other large files over the Internet.

This new PC, called Zonbu, automatically receives free updates of its software when new versions come out. It doesn’t require antivirus or other security programs like Norton or Nod32 because it runs on the Linux operating system, which has attracted very few viruses or spyware programs.

Zonbu’s overall goal is to simplify the process of buying and using a computer.

The biggest catch (if it is a catch at all) is that the Zonbu computer doesn’t include a hard disk for storing files (that’s one reason it uses so little energy). Instead, all of your files are stored online on the company’s servers similar to Mozy. That offers several advantages, such as the fact that the files are automatically backed up.

But you have to pay for the online storage. (Not alot, but still there is a cost). The $99 price for the Zonbu computer requires you to commit to a two-year contract starting at about $12/month.

If you opt to pay month to month instead of two years in advance, Zonbu will cost about $249.By comparison, you can get a Dell Inspiron 531s for just $529, after rebate. Dell Coupons

Also, the Zonbu monthly service fee is offset by some savings.

The $99 machine uses so much less energy than a typical PC that you can save noticeably on your electric bill - in addition to not paying for anti-virus subscriptions and other PC maintenance items. I strongly support Zonbu’s goals of making computing simpler, cheaper and more energy efficient.

The way I see it, the Zonbu can be perfect for:

• Teenagers and Children
• Elderly parents or people who are new to computers and need something a bit simpler to learn.
• People who travel alot or have vacation homes.

Labels: Computers and Software, Teen Christmas Gift Ideas