Official OLPC FAQ: Difference between revisions

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== How can I buy a laptop? ==
=== How can I obtain an laptop? ===


See [[Buying XOs]].
From November 12th to November 26th, 2007, your $399 donation will fund an XO laptop going to a needy child and you can receive one for yourself in the US or Canada. (We are sorry, for now, we are limited to the US and Canada.) Sure, you may order more than one! The website, starting November 12th, will instruct you how to do this. Please visit:


=== Will OLPC be offering Give One Get One (G1G1) again? ===
http://www.laptopgiving.org
We have no plans to do so at this time, sorry. You can get an [http://one.laptop.org/about/olpc-tablet OLPC Tablet] though.


=== How will my donation be used? ===
To purchase 100 or more laptops and designate the recipient of all the laptops through our Give Many program, please visit:


Your donation will be used to cover the cost of manufacturing, sending and setting-up laptops in some of the most remote and isolated parts of the world. This may also include power and connectivity infrastructure, teacher preparation and other technical and educational support.
http://www.laptopfoundation.org/en/participate/givemany.shtml


=== Who do I contact if I have a question about my 2007 Give One Get One order? ===
See also the questions starting at [[#How do I make a donation? Can a donation be made for a specific country or school?]] for donation related inquiries.


Write to {{help@laptop.org}}.
== When will we receive a laptop purchased through the G1G1 or Give Many program? ==


=== Will these laptops be available for purchase in retail stores? ===
We will make every effort to deliver XO laptops by the holidays, but quantities are limited. Early purchasers have the best chance of receiving their XO laptops in time for the holidays, but because the laptops are manufactured based on demand, we cannot guarantee timing. We hope you agree that this is more about the giving.


No, we have no plans for retail sale of the XO laptop at this time. The OLPC Tablet is available for retail sale though.
== Will these laptops be available for purchase in retail stores? ==


=== Can I or my organization be a recipient of the XO laptop? ===
No. Other than the G1G1 program described above, the laptop is not for sale on the commercial market at this time. Please understand that launching the laptop is an ongoing process. Have patience, and someday we hope it may be more widely available at the cost of production: around $180 right now and decreasing over time. (The G1G1 campaign is helping us fundraise and spread awareness.) Surely it will be noted on our website if the laptop does become commercially available.


Yes, but there is a minimum order quantity, see [[Buying XOs]].
== How will the laptop computers be marketed? ==


=== How will the laptop computers be marketed? ===
Our policy at the moment is to sell the laptops in bulk orders directly to governments. Developing countries are the most actively engaged with OLPC but we have not excluded wealthier nations. We certainly understand that there are needy children even in the wealthiest nations; indeed, all children are deserving. The idea in the long run is one laptop per child—everywhere! It is up to the relevant officials of a country or government entity to contact us, and we begin negotiating from there. The participating governments will then distribute the laptops to their schools. (The link below shows which countries are in what stages of negotiation.) You are welcome to lobby any government you wish on behalf of our laptop or simply the idea of one laptop per child. We regret we cannot assist you in this lobbying, but we appreciate it.


Our policy at the moment is to sell the laptops directly to governments or non-profit endeavors willing to order in volume.
Bulk orders will get the manufacturing process rolling and drive the price down. Please be patient: we hope that our efforts, along with market forces in general, will contribute to affordable laptops being widely available in the near future so that everyone may benefit.


Volume orders will get the manufacturing process rolling and drive the price down. Please have patience: the launch and distribution of the XO laptop is a process. We hope that our efforts, along with market forces in general, will contribute to affordable laptops being widely available in the near future so that everyone may benefit.
We receive inquiries from worthwhile causes and lone individuals from around the world, doing amazing and noble humanitarian work. We applaud all these efforts and regret we cannot fully collaborate or donate laptops at this time. Feel free to participate in the G1G1 or Get Many campaign (see links at top of page) and receive your laptop in the future. Or, hopefully, the government of the region you are interested in may be purchasing the laptops. Again, feel free to lobby. Please have patience; getting low cost laptops distributed throughout the world is a process.


We receive many inquiries from worthwhile causes and lone individuals from around the world, doing amazing and noble humanitarian work. We applaud all these efforts and regret we cannot fully collaborate or donate laptops at this time. Hopefully, the government of the region in which you are interested, or a non-profit working in the area, may be purchasing the laptops. Again, feel free to lobby.
To see which countries are involved, go to:


=== Why do children in developing nations need laptop computers? ===
http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Countries


The XO laptop as not merely a piece of equipment, but as an educational opportunity. Laptop computers can be a window and a tool: a window into the world and a tool with which to think. Computers are a wonderful way for all children to learn through independent interaction and exploration.
To see a map of these countries:


=== Why are these laptops going to children in developing nations when there are needy children in the U.S.? ===
http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Map
In the U.S., the average expenditure for education is $7,500 dollars per child per year. In developing countries, the average expenditure is typically less than $300 dollars per child per year. One Laptop per Child is initially focused on where the need is most urgent.
== Why do children in developing nations need laptop computers? ==


However, wealthier nations and organizations are certainly not excluded. A number of U.S. states and cities have approached OLPC and expressed interest in the program. It is up to the relevant officials of a government entity or organization to contact us by emailing countries@laptop.org to start a dialogue. The participating governments or organizations will then distribute the XO laptops in a non-profit manner to their schools or participants. You are welcome to lobby any government or organization you wish on behalf of the XO laptop or simply the concept of one laptop per child. We regret that we cannot assist you in this lobbying, but we appreciate the efforts of those who share our vision.
Laptop computers are both a window and a tool—a window into the world and a tool with which to think. Computers are a wonderful way for all children to learn through independent interaction and exploration.
=== Why not a desktop computer, or even better, a recycled desktop machine? ===


While desktops are cheaper, mobility is important, especially with regard to taking the computer home at night. Children in the developing world need the newest technology, especially rugged hardware and innovative software.
=== Why is it important for each child to have a computer? What's wrong with community access computer centers? ===
== Why are these laptops going to children in developing nations when there are needy children in the U.S.? ==
In the U.S., the average expenditure for education is $7,500 dollars per child. In developing countries, the average expenditure is typically less than $300 dollars per child. One Laptop per Child is initially focused on where the need is most urgent. A number of U.S. states have approached One Laptop per Child and expressed interest in the program, and in the long run, One Laptop per Child hopes to work with those states and help children everywhere. Also, please see [[#How will the laptop computers be marketed?]].


One does not think of community pencils—kids have their own. They are tools with which to think, sufficiently inexpensive to be used for work and play, drawing, writing, and mathematics. A computer can be the same, but far more powerful. Furthermore, there are many reasons it is important for a child to own something, like a football, doll, or book, not the least of which being that these belongings will be well maintained through love and care.
== Why not a desktop computer, or even better, a recycled desktop machine? ==
=== What is the laptop called and what can it do? ===


The laptop is an amazing machine, designed for children, called XO. It is quite rugged, GNU/Linux based, has 2 or 3 USB ports, wireless connectivity, a built in camera, a sunlight readable screen, and many other interesting features. It runs on very little power and there will be peripherals that will allow the laptop to run on solar or human power for regions off the grid.
While desktops are cheaper, mobility is important, especially with regard to taking the computer home at night. Kids in the developing world need the newest technology, especially really rugged hardware and innovative software.


Please browse pages of information about the XO’s specs here: http://one.laptop.org/about/hardware
=== Can the XO connect to the internet? ===
== Why is it important for each child to have a computer? What's wrong with community access computer centers? ==


Yes, the XO comes with wifi.
One does not think of community pencils—kids have their own. They are tools to think with, sufficiently inexpensive to be used for work and play, drawing, writing, and mathematics. A computer can be the same, but far more powerful. Furthermore, there are many reasons it is important for a child to own something, like a football, doll, or book, not the least of which being that these belongings will be well maintained through love and care.


== What is the laptop called and what can it do? ==
=== Can I load Microsoft Windows onto the XO laptop? ===


No.
It is an amazing machine, designed for children, called XO. It is quite rugged, GNU/Linux based, has 3 USB ports, gets the internet wirelessly, has a built in camera, a sunlight readable screen, and many other interesting features. It runs on very little power and there will be peripherals that will allow the laptop to run on solar or human power for regions off-grid. We regret we do not have time to answer technical questions; our engineers are too busy perfecting the XO.


OLPC maintains a firm and unequivocal commitment to open source software. Having an open system is fundamental to OLPC's mission, please see: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Core_principles/lang-en
Please browse pages of information about the XO’s specs here: http://www.laptop.org/en/laptop/


Any software developed by or for OLPC is released under GPL v2. The open source community remains a critical success factor in the our mission.
== Can the laptop get the internet wirelessly? ==


=== Can I print from the XO Laptop? ===
Absolutely, the XO is very good at picking up wireless connections. The XO has no Ethernet port, but has 3 USB ports, so if you don’t have wireless, you can hook up to your internet connection in the wall using a USB-Ethernet adapter. This is a widely available, inexpensive item.


No, there is no built-in support. Some deployments add support from the Fedora Linux operating system.
== Can I load Microsoft Windows or my own software onto the XO laptop? ==


=== How do I get upgrades for the operating system of my XO? ===
Currently, Microsoft Windows cannot be loaded onto the laptop. The XO laptop has a GNU/Linux based Operating System and features its own programs, specifically designed for children and the XO. There are thousands of software developers around the world currently developing content for the XO. For more information, visit http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Activities


See [[Releases]].
== What can a $1,000 laptop computer do that the XO Laptop cannot? ==


=== Can I load flash on the XO? ===
The XO laptop is a computer built for learning and designed specifically with children in mind. Because of this, the features deemed most valuable for its purposes are as good (and in many cases, better) than comparable features on a $1000 laptop. For instance, the XO’s screen can be viewed as clearly as a newspaper in broad daylight, and the wireless range of the XO is several times longer than your average laptop. It's also more rugged, resilient and power efficient than most other laptops on the market. While other features, such as power and speed, cannot compare to a $1000 machine, they are excellent for the XO’s $200 price point and meet the necessary requirements for learning.


An [[Adobe Flash]] proprietary plug-in may be available, but is not supported by OLPC.
== What if am a skilled technical person and want to help the project, what can I do? ==


=== Can I load java on the XO? ===
If you have offered your technical help--thank you! Please explore the olpc wiki for collaboration possibilities. You can find project suggestions and projects under development for the XO laptop. The following links may be of particular interest:


Yes, a Java environment is available as part of Fedora Linux.
Home page: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Home


=== What can a $1,000 laptop computer do that the XO Laptop cannot? ===
Software projects under development or completed: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Software_projects


The XO laptop is a computer built for learning and designed specifically with children in mind. Because of this, the features deemed most valuable for its purposes are as good (and in many cases, better) than comparable features on a $1000 laptop. For instance, the XO’s screen can be viewed as clearly as a newspaper in broad daylight, and the wireless range of the XO is several times farther than your average laptop. It's also more rugged, resilient and power efficient than most other laptops on the market. While other features, such as power and speed, cannot compare to a $1000 machine, they are excellent for the XO’s $200 price point and meet the necessary requirements for learning.
Getting involved with OLPC: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Getting_involved_in_OLPC


Guidelines for developing activities: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/OLPC_Human_Interface_Guidelines


===Can I get replacement parts for my XO laptop?===
There is a process for serious Developer applicants to go through to be reviewed to receive a test machine. Please fill out the application thoroughly, including all the contact information asked for and follow the directions carefully about where to email.


Deployments can order parts from OLPC in bulk, and would normally do so as part of the initial purchase.
http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Developers_program


Individuals should see [[Support_FAQ#How_do_I_obtain_replacement_parts.2C_e.g._batteries_and_chargers.3F_Repair.3F|obtaining replacement parts and repairs]].
== How do I access Tech Support? ==


=== If am a skilled technical person or content developer and want to help the project, what can I do? ===
Because OLPC is a non-profit company, we are unable to provide direct technical support. One goal of the project is that children will learn to troubleshoot the XO themselves and subsequently use their experiences to help others. Information can be found in an online support community, as well as via a wiki and the web, email lists, and IRC channels. A fee-based service will also be available to those who desire it.


If you are thinking of offering your help, thank you! Please explore the wiki for collaboration possibilities. You can find project suggestions and projects under development for the XO laptop. Our [[Participate]] and [http://laptop.org/manual/XO_HowToVolunteer.html "How to Volunteer"] pages are the best places to start. The following are of particular interest to tech & content developers:
== May we work with OLPC on a research project, fundraising event, or collaborative venture? ==


Home page: http://wiki.laptop.org
We are very grateful for your offer, but need to concentrate on the launch of the laptop and regret we do not have the human resources available to collaborate in the many creative ways that are suggested. Feel free to browse the olpc wiki/online community or lobby your Department or Ministry of Education on behalf of One Laptop per Child or just the concept of one laptop per child.


Getting involved with OLPC: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Getting_involved_in_OLPC
If you are a vendor, marketer, manufacturer, importer, wholesaler or distributor, we have filed your company information and will get back to you if we need your services. Thank you.


Software projects under development or completed: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Software_projects
== Can someone from OLPC come speak with us or participate in our event? ==


Ideas about contributing content: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Contributing_content
If you do not receive an additional email from us other than this one within a few weeks, then we thank you kindly for the invitation, but will be unable to attend. Good luck with your event.


== May I (or my group or institution) visit your office? ==
=== May we work with OLPC on a research project or collaborative venture? ===


We are very grateful for your offer, but need to concentrate on the launch of the laptop and regret we do not have the human resources available to collaborate in the many creative ways that are suggested. Feel free to lobby your government officials or other organizations who may be able to purchase a large bulk order of XO laptops. They may email countries@laptop.org to start a dialogue with OLPC.
Unfortunately, we are not set up for public visits.


If you are a vendor, marketer, manufacturer, importer, wholesaler or distributor, we have filed your company information and will get back to you if we need your services. Thank you.
== If I have a question about content, or want to contribute to it, what should I do? ==

Please see this question for collaboration possibilities as well:

http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Official_OLPC_FAQ#If_am_a_skilled_technical_person_or_content_developer_and_want_to_help_the_project.2C_what_can_I_do.3F

===May we fundraise on behalf of OLPC?===

Thank you very much for your very kind thoughts of fundraising! We truly appreciate it.

Because we are such a small team and are entirely concentrated on launching the laptop, we regret we have no personnel to monitor, assist or collaborate in such endeavors. Nor do we have any printed material we can send you, but you are welcome to print out pages for yourself from our website: http://www.laptop.org and http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Home


Please remember that all materials must be reproduced with proper attribution and none of the information, images or other content can be use for commercial purposes or for your personal benefit.


There are some pictures you may use here: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Pictures


There are some presentations here, scroll down to where it says Slides, posters and materials: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/XO_roadshows


There is a growing archive of presentations(slides & video) as well at http://download.laptop.org/content


If the idea you have proposed raises funds for us, we are very grateful!

Checks for simple donations, *not* related to receiving any computers, can be sent to:


One Laptop per Child Foundation

PO Box 425087

Cambridge, MA 02142


It is also possible to give directly with a credit card through the link here on our website, *not* related to receiving any computers:

http://laptopfoundation.org/en/participate/

At this time, any donations made in the above manner cannot be designated to a specific school or country.



=== If I have a question about content, or want to contribute to it, what should I do? ===


Please direct your well summarized email to content@laptop.org
Please direct your well summarized email to content@laptop.org


Or visit this web page: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Contributing_content
Or visit this web page: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Contributing_content

The content team will get back to you if they are able to collaborate. Otherwise, they thank you very much for the idea and will keep your email on file.



=== Can someone from OLPC come speak with us or participate in our event? ===

If you email OLPC and do not receive an additional email from us other than the automated reply within a few weeks, then we regret we will be unable to attend or participate. We are sorry that, for now, our staff is simply too small to be able to attend all the interesting events to which we are invited, as much as we would like to.


Good luck with your event and we do thank you very much for thinking of us!



=== May I (or my group or institution) visit your office? ===

Unfortunately, no, we are not set up for public visits.



The content team will get back to you if they are able to collaborate. Otherwise, they thank you very much for the idea and will keep your email on file.


== Who is the manufacturer of the XO laptop computer? ==
=== Who is the manufacturer of the XO laptop computer? ===


Quanta Computer Inc. of Taiwan is the original design manufacturer (ODM) of the XO laptop. Quanta is the world’s largest laptop manufacturer and makes laptops for Apple, HP, Dell among many others.
Quanta Computer Inc. of Taiwan is the original design manufacturer (ODM) of the XO laptop. Quanta is the world’s largest laptop manufacturer and makes laptops for Apple, HP, Dell among many others.


== How is it possible to get the cost of the laptop so low? ==


=== How is it possible to get the cost of the laptop so low? ===
First, by dramatically lowering the cost of the display. The first-generation computer will have a novel, dual-mode display that represents improvements to the LCD displays commonly found in inexpensive DVD players. Second, we have also worked to get the fat out of our software systems. In other words, our laptop computers operate more efficiently. The XO’s operating system is based on a free and open source version of GNU/Linux. Third, One Laptop per Child is a non-profit organization that is not obligated to any investors. Finally, One Laptop per Child uses large scale orders to minimize marketing and distribution costs and to bulk order components to drive prices down.


First, by dramatically lowering the cost of the display. The first-generation computer will have a novel, dual-mode display that represents improvements to the LCD displays commonly found in inexpensive DVD players. Second, we have also worked to get the fat out of our software systems. In other words, our laptop computers operate more efficiently. The XO’s operating system is based on a free and open source version of GNU/Linux. Third, One Laptop per Child is a non-profit organization that is not obligated to any investors. Finally, One Laptop per Child uses large scale orders to minimize marketing and distribution costs and to bulk order components to drive prices down.
== Why is the laptop over $100? ==


$100 is our target price and “The $100 Laptop” a nickname. Currently, the XO’s cost around $180 to make. The manufacturer makes a small profit of a few dollars since they are a commercial business. However, we are a non-profit organization and will not make any profit on the laptop. The price fluctuates depending on the cost of materials and the occasional addition or subtraction of a feature. We expect the price to fall with mass production, hopefully reaching $100 within the next few years.


== How do I make a donation? Can a donation be made for a specific country or school? ==


=== Why is the laptop over $100? ===
Please see [[#How can I buy a laptop?]] for how to participate in the Give One Get One and Give Many programs. With G1G1, you specify where the laptop you are receiving is to be shipped within the US or Canada, but cannot specify where the donated laptop is going. With the Give Many program, buying 100 or more laptops, you can specify where the laptops will be sent. Again, see links at the very top.

$100 is our target price and “The $100 Laptop” is a nickname. Currently, the XO’s cost around $180 to make. The manufacturer (Quanta) makes a small profit of a few dollars since they are a commercial business. However, One Laptop per Child is a non-profit organization and will not make any profit on the laptop. The price fluctuates depending on the cost of materials and the occasional addition or subtraction of a feature. We expect the price to fall with mass production, hopefully reaching $100 within the next few years.



=== How do I make a donation? Can a donation be made for a specific country or school? ===

'''Donating over the internet:''' Simple monetary contributions of any dollar amount in which you do *not* receive any XO laptops may be made here: http://laptopfoundation.org/en/participate/
Please see where it says "Amount to donate" and insert in the box next to it the amount you desire to donate securely through Google.

If you wanted to Simply Give in $199 increments, signifying one laptop per $199, also *not* receiving any XO laptops, please go to the link below and click on "Donate now": http://www.laptop.org/xo.


Also, simple monetary contributions in which you do NOT receive any laptops may be made online at: http://laptopfoundation.org/en/participate/


Outright contributions by check or money order (NOT related to G1G1 or Give Many) may be mailed to:
'''Donating by snail-mail:''' Outright contributions by check or money order in which you will *not* recieve any XO laptops may be mailed to:


OLPC Foundation
OLPC Foundation
Line 150: Line 207:
U.S.A.
U.S.A.


We are a 501(c)(3) organization and if your company has a matching gift program, our EIN# is: 20-5471780


We regret, to keep our logistics simple, any donations made by the above methods cannot be designated to a specific school or country. The laptops will go to recipients in one of these countries:
== Do you accept group or corporate donations (sponsoring over 100 laptops)? ==
http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Countries


Yes, please call our group donor line at 1-800-379-7017. When you purchase 100 or more XO laptops for donation, you can choose where you would like the laptops sent. Price depends on the quantity. Please read about Give Many here:


For large bulk purchases, in which you may donate the laptops to a designated country or organization, please email countries@laptop.org to start a dialogue with OLPC.
http://www.laptopfoundation.org/en/participate/givemany.shtml


Our EIN# is: 20-5471780
We are a 501(c)(3) organization and our EIN# is 20-5471780.


=== Are you a non-profit and do you have a Federal Tax ID number? ===
== Is donating to OLPC, either outright, or buy participating in Give One Get One tax deductible? ==


One Laptop per Child Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and our EIN# is: '''20-5471780''' If you make a donation and your company has a matching gift program, please see if they would be willing to match your gift to us. Thank you!
Yes, in the United States. However, note that for G1G1, only half of the donation is tax deductible because you are receiving one of the laptops. If you live in a country other than the United States, please consult with your financial advisor to determine the extent of tax deductibility.


We are a 501(c)(3) organization and our EIN# is 20-5471780.


== If I have donated money to OLPC prior to the Give One Get One program, can I get an XO now? ==


=== Do you accept group or corporate donations? ===
We regret not. We sincerely thank you for your previous donation. Due to limited availability, we are only providing XO laptops to the general public during the Give One Get One program, which runs from November 12 to November 26.


Yes, please see the questions directly above this one about how to donate. To donate stock, please email stockdonations@laptop.org
== Do you accept donations of stock? ==


Yes. Please instruct your broker to transfer stock to the OLPC Foundation through our broker, AG Edwards. DTC Clearing #0201. For the Benefit Of (FBO): OLPC Foundation; Account 70038685. For more details and to receive the appropriate acknowledgement from the OLPC Foundation, please send an email to stockdonations@laptop.org.


== How do I volunteer or become an Intern? ==


=== Is donating to OLPC tax deductible? ===
We appreciate your kind offer. At this time we are not actively seeking either, but we may well need your help in the future. If you have indicated your desire to volunteer or intern, we are keeping your name on file and will email you when that need arises. Thank you!


The OLPC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, and our EIN# is 20-5471780. As such, financial contributions may be deductible for federal income tax purposes. If you gave a straight donation, the entire amount should be deductible. Please consult with your financial advisor to determine the full extent of all tax deductibility.
== Does OLPC have any job openings? ==


We apologize that OLPC is not currently registered as a non-profit outside of the USA.
Check our website. Any available jobs will be listed under “career”, and you are welcome to apply following the instructions there.


== Is the laptop environmentally friendly? ==
To donate your XO laptop, details are below.


=== Can OLPC send me a letter verifying my donation? ===
It may be the “greenest” laptop in existence. We hope to make it even “greener” as it evolves. See here for details: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Environmental_Impact


Unfortunately, OLPC cannot provide donation verification letters. For tax purposes, the e-mail containing your donation information and OLPC's EIN #20-5471780 should be sufficient.
== Who is behind these XO laptop computers? ==


=== What if I participated in Give One Get One and would like to donate my laptop back to OLPC? ===
The XO laptop computer is being developed by One Laptop per Child, a non-profit organization founded by MIT professor Nicholas Negroponte and a team of educators, developers and technologists dedicated to educating children in developing countries with the goal of eradicating poverty. One Laptop Per Child is based on principles expressed MIT Media Lab Professor Seymour Papert in the 1960s, and later elaborated upon by Alan Kay, and complemented by the principles articulated by Nicholas Negroponte in his book, Being Digital. Partner corporations including Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Intel, Brightstar, eBay, Google, Marvell, News Corporation, Nortel, Quanta, Chi Mei Group, Red Hat, and SES Astra are involved in this initiative.

We thank you for your generous thought of donating back your XO laptop. [[Support_FAQ#How_can_I_donate_my_.22Get_One.22_XO.3F|Click Here]] for details.

=== Do you accept donations of stock? ===

Yes. Please instruct your broker to transfer stock to the OLPC Foundation through our broker, AG Edwards. DTC Clearing #0201. For the Benefit Of (FBO): OLPC Foundation; Account 70038685. For more details and to receive the appropriate acknowledgment from the OLPC Foundation, please send an email to stockdonations@laptop.org.



=== Are there volunteer opportunities with OLPC? ===

We appreciate the generous offer of your time! Please see these links for ideas about volunteering:

http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Support_Gang

http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Participate

http://laptop.org/manual/XO_HowToVolunteer.html

Also check out this Frequently Asked Question:
[[#If am a skilled technical person or content developer and want to help the project, what can I do?]].

Feel free to email volunteer@laptop.org as well. Thank you!


=== Is it possible to intern at OLPC? ===

Please check this link: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Internships



=== Does OLPC have any job openings? ===

Please check this career page link and apply as instructed there: http://www.laptop.org/en/utility/people/opportunities.shtml



=== Is the laptop environmentally friendly? ===

It may be the “greenest” laptop in existence. We hope to make it even “greener” as it evolves. See here for details: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Green_Machine



=== Who is behind these XO laptop computers? ===

The XO laptop computer has been developed by One Laptop per Child, a non-profit organization founded by MIT professor Nicholas Negroponte and a team of educators, developers and technologists dedicated to educating children with the goal of eradicating poverty. One Laptop Per Child is based on principles expressed by MIT Media Lab Professor Seymour Papert in the 1960s, and later elaborated upon by Alan Kay, and complemented by the principles articulated by Nicholas Negroponte in his book, Being Digital. Partner corporations including Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Brightstar, eBay, Google, Marvell, News Corporation, Nortel, Quanta, Chi Mei Group, Red Hat, and SES Astra are involved in this initiative.



=== I am a journalist. Who do I contact to do a story about One Laptop per Child? ===
Please send a concise email to press@laptop.org, or call Jackie Lustig at (781) 487-4664. This is the office that handles OLPC's press and it is the only way to get an interview from a spokesperson of OLPC for your media outlet.

If you must mention a hard deadline in your email, please do so.

=== Can you send me pamphlets or other printed material? ===

We do not have any printed material to distribute, information about our organization is online. One Laptop per Child's official website is at: http://www.laptop.org/



=== Are there news updates I can follow about OLPC? ===

Official periodic news updates from the OLPC Team can be found at: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/News

Or you can even subscribe to the OLPC community news mailing list by clicking on http://lists.laptop.org/mailman/listinfo/community-news


[[Category:Support]]
== I am a journalist. Who do I contact to do a story about One Laptop per Child? ==
[[Category:OLPC FAQ]]
Please send an email to press@racepointgroup.com, or call Jackie Lustig at (781) 487-4664.
[[Category:Fundraising]]
[[Category:Fundraising idea]]

Latest revision as of 23:14, 3 November 2015

How can I obtain an laptop?

See Buying XOs.

Will OLPC be offering Give One Get One (G1G1) again?

We have no plans to do so at this time, sorry. You can get an OLPC Tablet though.

How will my donation be used?

Your donation will be used to cover the cost of manufacturing, sending and setting-up laptops in some of the most remote and isolated parts of the world. This may also include power and connectivity infrastructure, teacher preparation and other technical and educational support.

Who do I contact if I have a question about my 2007 Give One Get One order?

Write to help@laptop.org (our OLPC technical staff).

Will these laptops be available for purchase in retail stores?

No, we have no plans for retail sale of the XO laptop at this time. The OLPC Tablet is available for retail sale though.

Can I or my organization be a recipient of the XO laptop?

Yes, but there is a minimum order quantity, see Buying XOs.

How will the laptop computers be marketed?

Our policy at the moment is to sell the laptops directly to governments or non-profit endeavors willing to order in volume.

Volume orders will get the manufacturing process rolling and drive the price down. Please have patience: the launch and distribution of the XO laptop is a process. We hope that our efforts, along with market forces in general, will contribute to affordable laptops being widely available in the near future so that everyone may benefit.

We receive many inquiries from worthwhile causes and lone individuals from around the world, doing amazing and noble humanitarian work. We applaud all these efforts and regret we cannot fully collaborate or donate laptops at this time. Hopefully, the government of the region in which you are interested, or a non-profit working in the area, may be purchasing the laptops. Again, feel free to lobby.

Why do children in developing nations need laptop computers?

The XO laptop as not merely a piece of equipment, but as an educational opportunity. Laptop computers can be a window and a tool: a window into the world and a tool with which to think. Computers are a wonderful way for all children to learn through independent interaction and exploration.

Why are these laptops going to children in developing nations when there are needy children in the U.S.?

In the U.S., the average expenditure for education is $7,500 dollars per child per year. In developing countries, the average expenditure is typically less than $300 dollars per child per year. One Laptop per Child is initially focused on where the need is most urgent.

However, wealthier nations and organizations are certainly not excluded. A number of U.S. states and cities have approached OLPC and expressed interest in the program. It is up to the relevant officials of a government entity or organization to contact us by emailing countries@laptop.org to start a dialogue. The participating governments or organizations will then distribute the XO laptops in a non-profit manner to their schools or participants. You are welcome to lobby any government or organization you wish on behalf of the XO laptop or simply the concept of one laptop per child. We regret that we cannot assist you in this lobbying, but we appreciate the efforts of those who share our vision.

Why not a desktop computer, or even better, a recycled desktop machine?

While desktops are cheaper, mobility is important, especially with regard to taking the computer home at night. Children in the developing world need the newest technology, especially rugged hardware and innovative software.

Why is it important for each child to have a computer? What's wrong with community access computer centers?

One does not think of community pencils—kids have their own. They are tools with which to think, sufficiently inexpensive to be used for work and play, drawing, writing, and mathematics. A computer can be the same, but far more powerful. Furthermore, there are many reasons it is important for a child to own something, like a football, doll, or book, not the least of which being that these belongings will be well maintained through love and care.

What is the laptop called and what can it do?

The laptop is an amazing machine, designed for children, called XO. It is quite rugged, GNU/Linux based, has 2 or 3 USB ports, wireless connectivity, a built in camera, a sunlight readable screen, and many other interesting features. It runs on very little power and there will be peripherals that will allow the laptop to run on solar or human power for regions off the grid.

Please browse pages of information about the XO’s specs here: http://one.laptop.org/about/hardware

Can the XO connect to the internet?

Yes, the XO comes with wifi.

Can I load Microsoft Windows onto the XO laptop?

No.

OLPC maintains a firm and unequivocal commitment to open source software. Having an open system is fundamental to OLPC's mission, please see: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Core_principles/lang-en

Any software developed by or for OLPC is released under GPL v2. The open source community remains a critical success factor in the our mission.

Can I print from the XO Laptop?

No, there is no built-in support. Some deployments add support from the Fedora Linux operating system.

How do I get upgrades for the operating system of my XO?

See Releases.

Can I load flash on the XO?

An Adobe Flash proprietary plug-in may be available, but is not supported by OLPC.

Can I load java on the XO?

Yes, a Java environment is available as part of Fedora Linux.

What can a $1,000 laptop computer do that the XO Laptop cannot?

The XO laptop is a computer built for learning and designed specifically with children in mind. Because of this, the features deemed most valuable for its purposes are as good (and in many cases, better) than comparable features on a $1000 laptop. For instance, the XO’s screen can be viewed as clearly as a newspaper in broad daylight, and the wireless range of the XO is several times farther than your average laptop. It's also more rugged, resilient and power efficient than most other laptops on the market. While other features, such as power and speed, cannot compare to a $1000 machine, they are excellent for the XO’s $200 price point and meet the necessary requirements for learning.


Can I get replacement parts for my XO laptop?

Deployments can order parts from OLPC in bulk, and would normally do so as part of the initial purchase.

Individuals should see obtaining replacement parts and repairs.

If am a skilled technical person or content developer and want to help the project, what can I do?

If you are thinking of offering your help, thank you! Please explore the wiki for collaboration possibilities. You can find project suggestions and projects under development for the XO laptop. Our Participate and "How to Volunteer" pages are the best places to start. The following are of particular interest to tech & content developers:

Home page: http://wiki.laptop.org

Getting involved with OLPC: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Getting_involved_in_OLPC

Software projects under development or completed: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Software_projects

Ideas about contributing content: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Contributing_content

May we work with OLPC on a research project or collaborative venture?

We are very grateful for your offer, but need to concentrate on the launch of the laptop and regret we do not have the human resources available to collaborate in the many creative ways that are suggested. Feel free to lobby your government officials or other organizations who may be able to purchase a large bulk order of XO laptops. They may email countries@laptop.org to start a dialogue with OLPC.

If you are a vendor, marketer, manufacturer, importer, wholesaler or distributor, we have filed your company information and will get back to you if we need your services. Thank you.

Please see this question for collaboration possibilities as well:

http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Official_OLPC_FAQ#If_am_a_skilled_technical_person_or_content_developer_and_want_to_help_the_project.2C_what_can_I_do.3F

May we fundraise on behalf of OLPC?

Thank you very much for your very kind thoughts of fundraising! We truly appreciate it.

Because we are such a small team and are entirely concentrated on launching the laptop, we regret we have no personnel to monitor, assist or collaborate in such endeavors. Nor do we have any printed material we can send you, but you are welcome to print out pages for yourself from our website: http://www.laptop.org and http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Home


Please remember that all materials must be reproduced with proper attribution and none of the information, images or other content can be use for commercial purposes or for your personal benefit.


There are some pictures you may use here: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Pictures


There are some presentations here, scroll down to where it says Slides, posters and materials: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/XO_roadshows


There is a growing archive of presentations(slides & video) as well at http://download.laptop.org/content


If the idea you have proposed raises funds for us, we are very grateful!

Checks for simple donations, *not* related to receiving any computers, can be sent to:


One Laptop per Child Foundation

PO Box 425087

Cambridge, MA 02142


It is also possible to give directly with a credit card through the link here on our website, *not* related to receiving any computers:

http://laptopfoundation.org/en/participate/

At this time, any donations made in the above manner cannot be designated to a specific school or country.


If I have a question about content, or want to contribute to it, what should I do?

Please direct your well summarized email to content@laptop.org

Or visit this web page: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Contributing_content

The content team will get back to you if they are able to collaborate. Otherwise, they thank you very much for the idea and will keep your email on file.


Can someone from OLPC come speak with us or participate in our event?

If you email OLPC and do not receive an additional email from us other than the automated reply within a few weeks, then we regret we will be unable to attend or participate. We are sorry that, for now, our staff is simply too small to be able to attend all the interesting events to which we are invited, as much as we would like to.


Good luck with your event and we do thank you very much for thinking of us!


May I (or my group or institution) visit your office?

Unfortunately, no, we are not set up for public visits.


Who is the manufacturer of the XO laptop computer?

Quanta Computer Inc. of Taiwan is the original design manufacturer (ODM) of the XO laptop. Quanta is the world’s largest laptop manufacturer and makes laptops for Apple, HP, Dell among many others.


How is it possible to get the cost of the laptop so low?

First, by dramatically lowering the cost of the display. The first-generation computer will have a novel, dual-mode display that represents improvements to the LCD displays commonly found in inexpensive DVD players. Second, we have also worked to get the fat out of our software systems. In other words, our laptop computers operate more efficiently. The XO’s operating system is based on a free and open source version of GNU/Linux. Third, One Laptop per Child is a non-profit organization that is not obligated to any investors. Finally, One Laptop per Child uses large scale orders to minimize marketing and distribution costs and to bulk order components to drive prices down.


Why is the laptop over $100?

$100 is our target price and “The $100 Laptop” is a nickname. Currently, the XO’s cost around $180 to make. The manufacturer (Quanta) makes a small profit of a few dollars since they are a commercial business. However, One Laptop per Child is a non-profit organization and will not make any profit on the laptop. The price fluctuates depending on the cost of materials and the occasional addition or subtraction of a feature. We expect the price to fall with mass production, hopefully reaching $100 within the next few years.


How do I make a donation? Can a donation be made for a specific country or school?

Donating over the internet: Simple monetary contributions of any dollar amount in which you do *not* receive any XO laptops may be made here: http://laptopfoundation.org/en/participate/ Please see where it says "Amount to donate" and insert in the box next to it the amount you desire to donate securely through Google.

If you wanted to Simply Give in $199 increments, signifying one laptop per $199, also *not* receiving any XO laptops, please go to the link below and click on "Donate now": http://www.laptop.org/xo.


Donating by snail-mail: Outright contributions by check or money order in which you will *not* recieve any XO laptops may be mailed to:

OLPC Foundation P.O. Box 425087 Cambridge Massachusetts, 02142 U.S.A.


We regret, to keep our logistics simple, any donations made by the above methods cannot be designated to a specific school or country. The laptops will go to recipients in one of these countries: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Countries


For large bulk purchases, in which you may donate the laptops to a designated country or organization, please email countries@laptop.org to start a dialogue with OLPC.

We are a 501(c)(3) organization and our EIN# is 20-5471780.

Are you a non-profit and do you have a Federal Tax ID number?

One Laptop per Child Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and our EIN# is: 20-5471780 If you make a donation and your company has a matching gift program, please see if they would be willing to match your gift to us. Thank you!


Do you accept group or corporate donations?

Yes, please see the questions directly above this one about how to donate. To donate stock, please email stockdonations@laptop.org


Is donating to OLPC tax deductible?

The OLPC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, and our EIN# is 20-5471780. As such, financial contributions may be deductible for federal income tax purposes. If you gave a straight donation, the entire amount should be deductible. Please consult with your financial advisor to determine the full extent of all tax deductibility.

We apologize that OLPC is not currently registered as a non-profit outside of the USA.

To donate your XO laptop, details are below.

Can OLPC send me a letter verifying my donation?

Unfortunately, OLPC cannot provide donation verification letters. For tax purposes, the e-mail containing your donation information and OLPC's EIN #20-5471780 should be sufficient.

What if I participated in Give One Get One and would like to donate my laptop back to OLPC?

We thank you for your generous thought of donating back your XO laptop. Click Here for details.

Do you accept donations of stock?

Yes. Please instruct your broker to transfer stock to the OLPC Foundation through our broker, AG Edwards. DTC Clearing #0201. For the Benefit Of (FBO): OLPC Foundation; Account 70038685. For more details and to receive the appropriate acknowledgment from the OLPC Foundation, please send an email to stockdonations@laptop.org.


Are there volunteer opportunities with OLPC?

We appreciate the generous offer of your time! Please see these links for ideas about volunteering:

http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Support_Gang

http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Participate

http://laptop.org/manual/XO_HowToVolunteer.html

Also check out this Frequently Asked Question: #If am a skilled technical person or content developer and want to help the project, what can I do?.

Feel free to email volunteer@laptop.org as well. Thank you!


Is it possible to intern at OLPC?

Please check this link: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Internships


Does OLPC have any job openings?

Please check this career page link and apply as instructed there: http://www.laptop.org/en/utility/people/opportunities.shtml


Is the laptop environmentally friendly?

It may be the “greenest” laptop in existence. We hope to make it even “greener” as it evolves. See here for details: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Green_Machine


Who is behind these XO laptop computers?

The XO laptop computer has been developed by One Laptop per Child, a non-profit organization founded by MIT professor Nicholas Negroponte and a team of educators, developers and technologists dedicated to educating children with the goal of eradicating poverty. One Laptop Per Child is based on principles expressed by MIT Media Lab Professor Seymour Papert in the 1960s, and later elaborated upon by Alan Kay, and complemented by the principles articulated by Nicholas Negroponte in his book, Being Digital. Partner corporations including Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Brightstar, eBay, Google, Marvell, News Corporation, Nortel, Quanta, Chi Mei Group, Red Hat, and SES Astra are involved in this initiative.


I am a journalist. Who do I contact to do a story about One Laptop per Child?

Please send a concise email to press@laptop.org, or call Jackie Lustig at (781) 487-4664. This is the office that handles OLPC's press and it is the only way to get an interview from a spokesperson of OLPC for your media outlet.

If you must mention a hard deadline in your email, please do so.

Can you send me pamphlets or other printed material?

We do not have any printed material to distribute, information about our organization is online. One Laptop per Child's official website is at: http://www.laptop.org/


Are there news updates I can follow about OLPC?

Official periodic news updates from the OLPC Team can be found at: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/News

Or you can even subscribe to the OLPC community news mailing list by clicking on http://lists.laptop.org/mailman/listinfo/community-news

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