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archives: through 2006; Jan-Jun 2007

OLPC News Feed?

Is there now or are there any plans to make OLPC news available as an RSS feed? I would very much like to provide my site's readers with up-to-date news on OLPC's progress. Best regards! MT

Will Limited Storage Impact Feeling Of Ownership?

I have been impressed by Seymor Papert's idea that the relationship that users have with their personal computers makes them more powerful. I also note that the storage limitations of the OLPC mean that some portion of the materials of an individual student are likely to be stored on the server. What I am curious about is how this will impact the student's sense of ownership and whether the software will be designed to mitigate this limitation by blurring the distinction of local/remote storage. I imagine that this might be done by something simple like establishing a virtual volume that contains the local and remote materials. Of course it may well be that this isn't an issue at all.

The objective is to have the 'server' space transparently integrated into the 'user' space, so that accessing a resource (ie: a file) stored in the server will be transparent. For more info, you can read OLPC Human Interface Guidelines#Automatic Backup and Restore or OLPC Human Interface Guidelines#The Laptop Experience for a broader view. --Xavi 22:46, 31 May 2007 (EDT)

My first 386 had an 80 MB HD. That was plenty for me to write Basic programs, draw scribbles in Kid Pix, and feel like I owned the machine. I wouldn't worry about space vs. ownership. Ben 01:36, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

I haven't read Papert, but as a Mac user, I can tell you that I'm well aware how much I have fetishized and bonded with my machine. =) Anyway, there are two modalities to this: hardware and software. If allowed, a kid might "customize" her or his laptop case with decorations of some sort. If allowed, they might also upgrade or customize the hardware, if they were so inclined. Obviously this could lead to problems, but what is allowable will probably be determined at the local level. In terms of software, it is much the same, but much more fluid. Kids will want to control the decoration and functionality of their computers, but these settings can be easily stored on the server if more than one child is using a laptop. It's not just the access to files that is important, but the ability to create and save personal configurations. --216.175.82.30 13:27, 12 November 2007 (EST)

Game Jam

Can Game Jam games be accessed through FireFox in a format that people can can try it or see an in action demo of the games themes?

If not as many programs can be presented for view in diffrent system formats do you think becuase of the Google link that the program is not being relistic in the real world of internet? In some ways the clanist social pratices of many people and nations is a mid level part of their problem. By following this type of only if you.... belong to the group ,have this kind of system, have a laptop ect... may not be progressive. WHAT DO YOU THINK? jULY 7,2007

Wireless on/off switch?

Does the X0 have a hardware option to turn the wireless off and on? If so, what key(s) are used? If not, is there a simple software option?

Zane

There is no hardware option. It is possible to turn off wireless in software, once you have gone to the terminal and logged in as root. I do not know the precise command required. For most users, wireless on/off will be handled completely automatically. Ben 01:23, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

Multiple users per laptop?

I know the philosophy is "One Laptop *PER CHILD*". However, we were wondering about getting just two or three XO's for our preschool, and having the kids share. Is that feasible? Would all the kids have to share the same file space, or is it possible (with user profiles, or separate flash memory cards) for them to have their own space?

Once G1G1 opens, you will be able to order a handful of XO's for any purpose you desire. OLPC's "Sugar" interface is designed to reduce complexity by only having one account per computer. However, I do not think preschoolers really require separate accounts, filespaces, usernames, and passwords. I suspect they would do just fine sharing a few XOs. (In principle, you could provide each of them with their own SD card, and instruct them to save all their files to it, but this seems a tall order for a 4-year-old). Ben 01:21, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

SD card size?

How large an sd card can the xo use?

SDHC cards are supported, so at least 4 GB, and probably 8 GB as well. Ben 01:13, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

dial-up

sorry if I'm dumb. If I do the "buy one, give one" thing, and I don't have wireless access, will I be able to access the internet via dial-up?

You can use a USB to serial (RS-232) converter to connect to a modem for dial-up access. Chris 21:25, 14 October 2007 (EDT)

ayudenos a ayudar

Distinguidos Señores de wiki.laptop.org

Mi nombre es Patricio Sharup, vivo en el canton taisha, provincia de morona santiago, amazonia, pais-ecuador. Mi pregunta es, como dar inicio a una apertura de dialogo con esta empresa para ver las posibilidades de cooperacion por parte de wiki.laptop.org.

Saludos cordiales... PATRICIO SHARUP

Posiblemente quieres ir a OLPC_Spanish_America, o a #olpc-es por IRC en freenode.net Ben 01:12, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

Boot Time

As of this date, October 12, 2007, as OLPC prepares to undergo full production, what is the boot time of the XO?

Donating the income of free ad space

I would like to use some free space on my site to place ads. I want to let the income of these ads be donated to the OLPC project. Is there a possibility for me to ensure that the advertisers paid for their ads by donating to your project, without transferring the money to my account first?

Thank you for your interest in donating to OLPC. We recommend that you transfer the money through your account. First, it will allow you to ensure proper credit for a possible charitable donation (please make any donations payable to the OLPC Foundation). Second, tracking and confirm third party payments would introduce an overhead that our small, already multi-tasking team can not take on.

One Laptop in America

It would be nice if we could concern ourselves with providing children in America before we worry about everyone else. My wife is a teacher and cannot even get a single computer in her classroom much less a laptop for every child. Why can't we fix this problem first. I saw the report on Dateline (I think that was the show), and the question was asked if we can purchase them for Americans, and the response was we have to buy two. One for us, and one for someone in another country. Are you kidding me?

OLPC is an international project, not an American project. It so happens that many of the developers are US citizens, but many are not. In all cases, OLPC's philosophy is to deal with Departments of Education. If you would like to see OLPC deployed in your state, you must lobby your Department of Education. If your state wishes to order enough laptops for all entering school children, OLPC will almost certainly be happy to help. Ben 01:08, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

Give 1, Get 1 - warranty/support

For people participating in the Give 1, Get 1 program, how will warranty and support issues be handled? As I understand it, other countries buying XOs for students will buy spares and handle maintenance and repairs themselves. What will be the warranty period for the US purchased XO systems, and will there be some type of mail-in or depot exchange/repair program available (possibly through Quanta)?

G1G1 laptops are currently planned to include a 30 day warranty. Full details will be provided to participants before ordering opens. Ben 00:59, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

is there a scope to filter age-specific or grade-specific information

I am a parent of 7yr old and a teacher educator. I was going through the library grid. The info there is quite useful for children(and educators). I am wondering whether it would be possible to make it in to auto-capsules that are age-appropriate and adequate? For example, I was going through module on animals,the info is vast and a child of say age 7-8 may not require all that is there, may be he/she would be quite thrilled to get some exciting bits of it to begin with. How we can filter? of course one way is through teacher intervention, but typical parental tendency would be to make available all that is out there on the wiki. I would be keen to know any such efforts are made in this direction to sort the info grade wise/age wise? thanks

There are efforts being made in this area in the "OLPC Content" group. You may want to visit Curators and coordinators or visit the #olpc-content IRC channel. Ben 00:55, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

Alex - russian (e-mail removed)

Добрый день. Как можно приобрести ваш компьютер вне правительствненной программы? Очень нужно. salt2002@ukr.net

До сих пор есть одна возможность получить этот компутер вне правительственой программы, покупить в США. [1] Конечно, вам нужен помошник в США и деньги чтобы так делать.

Up to now there is only one way to get this computer outside of government programs, buy it in the USA. Of course, you need a helper in the USA and money in order to do this.

Note: this query seems to come from Ukraine, not Russia, judging by the email address.

Making a donation from a group

As part of a discussion in my Bus Adm 230 Introduction to Information Systems lectures, I talk about the digital divide. As part of this discussion I mentioned projects designed to help bridge this chasm - and of course - talked about the OLPC program.

I have collected over $100 dollars from my students for your project! I will add enough money to bring the total up to $200 - enough to provide a child with an XO laptop. I would like to know the best way to donate this money in the name of my class.

Thank you for giving my students the opportunity to make a difference!

Wonderful! You should go straight to XOGiving.org and click "Donate". Ben 00:51, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

Antennas , plugs

why do the antennas have to be sticking out, as it makes them easily breakable / fragile ? Couldn’t you put them alongside the screen like it is done on other laptops? Although it gives it a fun look, it probably cost more if they can resist real life bending and tearing? What about dust /sand in the plugs, are they isolated from the rest of the case? Are these plugs safe if a child put’s in a paper clip?

Hope I don't offend anyone in asking, trivial questions.

I don't know much about the decisions behind the antennas, but there are several facts that may help answer your questions: The antennas serve double duty; they both provide wireless networking and cover the plugs to provide some protection against dust. Unlike typical laptops, the XO has almost all of its electronics in the screen portion (only the keyboard and battery are in the base), so having an antenna around the edge of the screen might not have been an option due to interference. If I recall correctly from when I last saw an XO, the antennas are rubberized and quite rugged; this is apparently a recent design change in reaction to field tests. This photo shows that the plugs are directly on the motherboard, not really isolated at all, but they may still be adequate for keeping out dust. According to the hardware specification, the laptop conforms to child toy safety standards, among others, which hopefully test for the safety of the ports as well. —Joe 14:04, 17 October 2007 (EDT)

Will the OLPC be able to boot something like PUPPYOS via a USB stick?

Before I consider the purchase of two OLPC laptops, I would like to verify that the hardware will support booting Linux via USB flash devices. I know PuppyLinux was unfortunately quickly dismissed as a possible candidate to run on the OLPC hardware; however, since the AMD Geode is a x86 processor, I am in hopes I can boot PuppyLinux from USB attached devices, IE... USB Flash, Compact flash using USB adapter, hard drive/cdrom/dvdrom using sata/ide-to-USB adapter, etc.. Has anyone on the development team tried to boot any of the later PuppyOS releases on the current OLPC hardware? If so, how did it work?

Thanks Very Much In Advance Regards Ron

give one get one

what will the laptop come with if I get one from the give one get one offer?

See the Activities page to get a sense of the range of software that will come from the laptop.

Give 1: Get One program --> how to run another OS on my olpc

While I am fascinated to try the sugar UI paradigm, I feel that I may wish to run a different light linux distro on an olpc that I get through the "Give 1: Get 1" program in order to work with a broader and more current selection of packages. This raises a number of questions which I haven't been able to find answers for:

• What distros other than the stock image will install easily on the OLPC? I know fedora is related to the OLPC stock image, but is fedora light enough? What about DSL or another light distro?
• What drivers and other software may need to be hand added to these distros to take advantage of the networking and display optimizations of the XO?
• Does the XO hardware have the capability to work with more standard network topologies and use standards such as WPA?

"Easily" is a relative term, and even more so when combined with the words "installing Linux". :) There is a page on the wiki that tells how to install a fairly vanilla Debian on the OLPC (and there's also one for installing Fedora Core, but that is quite old and uses a custom image). Given that Debian goes on fairly easily (where "easily" requires command-line work, a USB key, and an additional Debian machine), I imagine other Linux distributions could be made to work as well. I have seen the XO running off of commodity 802.11b wireless networking, and I understand it also works with ethernet if you have a USB adapter (but not just any adapter will work). —Joe 15:01, 23 October 2007 (EDT)

JVM in XO

Is there any way to install JVM (Java Virtual Machine) or similar tool in XO o run java software?

The Java page implies that there is. —Joe 14:00, 23 October 2007 (EDT)

If a developer wants to use a JVM, one way to do it is by leveraging the technology from dotFX, Inc. dotFX enables developers to deliver live applications packaged as a link or direct to the desktop. An XO user can obtain an always updated JVM for example, managed by our technology, if a developer wants to package his/her software as secure, live software on our technology. Since the technology is not pre-loaded with XO, the first time a user comes to a website for example with your application packaged as link, he/she will get an initial download we call ClientFX which has the parts of the JVM dynamically loaded to use your app. After that, the user can click on any live application link and access software as easily as he/she access content today. See www.dotFX.com to download the ServerFX product for free. Or, email me with any questions. In addition, I check this site frequently, because I think what OLPC's mission is awesome. Thanks. -Pete President/co-founder dotFX, Inc pete@dotFX.com

setting up web proxy in the OLPC machine

Our network is under proxy settings.. could you please help us how to set up web proxy in OLPC machines

I'm not sure if this answers your question, but there is an answer to a similar question about configuring the XO's web activity for web proxies further up on this page. —Joe 19:21, 24 October 2007 (EDT)

WHY?

WHY don't you just buy Pen's paper and textbooks in calgary kids get along really well without laptops1!

Why don't you just buy pens, paper, and textbooks? In Calgary, kids get along really well without laptops!

First of all, it is not clear that the economics of printing and distributing textbooks is favorable relative to distributing laptops. Second, there are many more things you can do with a laptop than you can with just pen and paper: explore, express, compute, communicate etc. Third, I would guess that most children in Calgary have some access to libraries, computers, cell phones, newspaper, television, radio, etc. and teachers! This is not the case for most children in the developing world, for whom we have designed the laptop.

Software

Dear Sirs,

I sent the following email to technology@laptop.org as directed by your web site. I recieved in return an autoresponder email that offers the ability to give laptops away. As you can see by the email I sent, this was not my purpose in contact. Aprend would be happy to contribute whatever it can in the future, but realistically, without software and a purpose, the XO will make a good boat anchor (for a very small boat at 3lbs.) How do we get in touch with a human (not autoresponder) to investigate at which level we may be of assistance?

Sincerly, Rod Gilchrist

Email originally sent:

My name is Rod Gilchrist. I have a small company in Austin, Texas named Aprend. We have developed a learning management system with integrated authorware. Our software is written totally in JAVA. Due to the features of JAVA, the translation of the GUI is a snap. Localization of language of the GUI, regardless of the language or dialect is very easy. The ability to create content is also very easy with the integrated authorware, localization of the GUI for the content creation software is also very easy. in addition, due to JAVA, our software runs under virtually any OS on any hardware.

It appears to me that the OLPC XO project could possibly use our software to deliver education to children using your laptops all over the world, in their localized language.

I would like to investigate an alliance between Aprend and your project to possibly provide our software with the XO laptop to enable educators at the user end of your project.

Please contact me if you are interested. I have attached a trifold brochure word file in hopes of explaining the features to you.

Sincerely, Roderick E. Gilchrist, CEO Aprend Software (512) 328-5119 rod@aprendsoft.com

Java is not supported.

Rod - I am the President of dotFX, Inc (www.dotFX.com). We innovated a technology which can take existing Java applications and make them live - accessible as a clickable link or direct from the desktop. If the Aprend Software solution is placed on the dotFX framework it becomes "live" software. We manage the delivery of the application and underlying JVM/JRE dynamically. Currently OLPC does not support Java; however, I am a believer in their mission and think that access to free software for kids around the world, securely, is very important. If your software is packaged as a live application, then OLPC kids can access a JVM to their machine organically. The policy decision for OLPC for Java one way or another can be made over time; however, in the interim, there is a path. Let me know if you have any questions. -Pete

President, co-founder dotFX, Inc www.dotFX.com pete@dotFX.com

Usability testing

Can anyone tell me if, how, and when usability tests will be (have been, are bring) conducted for the OLPC project? Keith Karn

I'm not sure if this is what you are looking for, but there have been a number of field trials of the XOs, the feedback from which are used to improve the hardware and software. And feedback is solicited at various showings of the device, such as at the Boston Game Jam. I'm not sure if there is any formal usability testing in place, though. —Joe 00:27, 26 October 2007 (EDT)

Digital Radio Mondiale

I am interested in making a cheap DRM using avalable AM/FM radio and use it with line in of PC. Can anyone help me regarding the Hardware and Software of the DRM.

If your device only uses the line-in, there will be a standard activity that can record from that port and play it back, like the Record activity. If the device needs an additional communication route (for example to specify tuning or encode/decode radio signals on the CPU), the best route may be through one of the laptop's standard USB connections. There may be more information available via the Peripherals page; the Hardware and Software pages may also have the basic information that you're looking for. —Joe 00:53, 26 October 2007 (EDT)

Wired netword card

Is there also a wired network card on the laptop ? I heard that wireless connection can cause brain tumors.

There is no wired network card built-in to the laptops, but USB ethernet adapters can be used. —Joe 12:55, 26 October 2007 (EDT)

MP3 files

I noticed that one cannot download speech podcasts in mp3 format to the xo. Is there any way to download these mp3 files, or download software that will allow it?

There is MP3 software that can run on the laptops, but it's not clear whether it will ship with the laptops or, if not, how easy it will be for a user to install. See the RestrictedFormats page. —Joe 12:55, 26 October 2007 (EDT)

Forth in Open Firmware

Is there a usable Forth interpreter one can experiment with and learn from in the firmware?

Apparently, the firmware's Forth interpreter is user-accessible (see instructions in the Open Firmware FAQ). —Joe 12:55, 26 October 2007 (EDT)

Okay, that is OFFICIALLY very cool! lol... Thanks for answering, Joe! I'm really looking forward to the "Buy two, get one" in November. :)

Microsoft Windows XP on XOs

Microsoft has been talking about getting the XP to work on the XO systems. I personally would consider Microsoft having anything to do with this project as a mistake. One of the core principals is free and open source software and any moves to work with Microsoft on this project would run contrary to this. Will the OLPC initiative be staying open source and sticking with Linux? -- Thomas (New Zealand)

According to the list of OLPC myths, the officially distributed OS is still Linux. However, an open system means that anyone (including Microsoft) can develop for it. —Joe 17:25, 26 October 2007 (EDT)

Wireless networking health safety

Can the antenna give brain tumor ?

No. The wireless system is entirely safe. It is certified for safety in the US by the FCC and Underwriter's Laboratories. Ben 00:46, 31 October 2007 (EDT)

dotFX Java Framework

dotFX, Inc. (www.dotFX.com) has a free framework product called ServerFX which allows the 6 million java developers to take existing java applications and make them "live" software, i.e. desktop distributed through the Internet securely. For example, there are 30,000 existing Java applications (desktop apps / "dead" apps) which can be packaged as a clickable link / icon on the desktop or within a browser.

This provides extreme ease of use and ease of access for OLPC users to many free software applications, not previously accessible.

Please let me know if you would like to learn more. I am interested in leveraging the dotFX innovative technology for the OLPC mission.

Very truly yours - -Pete

Pete Hartigan President, co-founder www.dotFX.com pete@dotFX.com

I can't say whether or not the OLPC people are interested in your product, but note that the XO laptop is being distributed only with open source software and it is not currently shipping with Java. —Joe 12:31, 27 October 2007 (EDT)

If there are java developers interested in distributing their software, we can package their software as a "link" in a browser, or as a desktop icon. We manage the JVM for the developer and OLPC. It does not need to be distributed upfront. That is a decision OLPC can make either way, since our free installer and live update features can handle all of this pain for developers. As far as open source, we are not allergic to that consideration if there is proper demand. The key however is the value for the end user --- there are 30,000 existing java applications in open source for example which no one really uses -- we can package these as "links" and make them accessible to the common user -- ie they get free software, live from the network, in an easily accessible manner & updated for them with only deltas each time each user clicks on an application. Our framework provides mechanism for developers to run the apps offline or online, and provision in other ways if they want - yet at a high level the value for OLPC users around the world is straight forward. Get access to free software easily and none of them need to learn how to manage the software. For OLPC project - it is more value for basically no cost. For OLPC and developers, since we can publish services inline at runtime - if people want to monetize their work, we can package an ad object, license object (for premium services), and other revenue generating mechanisms on demand. -Pete pete@dotFX.com

Few highlights for OLPC kids and developers:

1. Environment is secure - so kids around the world can click on apps and have a true security model (vs abdication of security with a trust/no trust decision being forced upfront)

2. Online / Offline

3. Low network footprint - eg if a child is in Africa, India or China for example with low bandwidth - this technique gets full functionality to them in low network availability areas of the world.

4. Infinite number of applications possible on a small hard drive - dynamic applications / servcies - taken on and off as required

5. Applications are monitorable if desired - In the context of social networking applications with kids involved, the browser is generally not good enough to ward off the risk of preditors for example. A developer may choose to want a more monitorable environment for safety purposes. We provide the mechanism if developers want it.

Why pay $150 for what is a 10-year-old machine?

There's no need to spend time considering the pro's and con's of selling this computer to the general public. It won't be offered up for sale. Why? For EXACTLY the same reasons they are not being peddled to developed nations: buyers will ask legtimate questions BEFORE buying and then the truth about these computers and their great limitations will be exposed. Why would anyone pay $150 for what is essentially a re-packaged 10-year old machine? (in terms of computer power/storage/software).

If you only restrict your analysis to computer power, storage capacity and bundled software, then you might be right although I do think that you undervalue the bundled mesh networking software. But the real point is that the OLPC has conciously accepted constraints in computer power, storage capacity and bundled software in order to be innovative in other areas. The XO laptop leverages current interface technology far more than any other PC. Nowadays it is common for WiFi interfaces to be built around their own CPU but only the OLPC leverages this so that the main computer can be powered down while the satellite CPU continues to transmit/recieve data. Only the OLPC has the innovative dual-mode LCD technology that allows normal use, as well as a special low-power black and white mode for ebook reading. This is one of very few modern laptops that have no moving parts and therefore are likely to last a long time which means they provide better green value for money.

P.S. I actually picked this question up from a blog comment that I saw, because I think it nicely sums up a widespread view which is also an ill-informed view that undervalues the leading edge technology in this laptop.

Please consider adding "childsplay" to software packages...

The "childsplay" package is a wonderful Python based package that has kept my 3.5 year old productively engaged for the last couple of months and it seems that it would be ideally suited for inclusion in the OLPC software suite. More info on it can be found at:

http://sourceforge.net/projects/childsplay/

http://koji.fedoraproject.org/koji/packageinfo?packageID=1463

Thanks for considering this suggestion.

Sincerely,

Dominic Caffey, dcaffey_fl@yahoo.com

The author of childsplay, Stas Zytkiewicz, has expressed interest in porting it to the XO and apparently has had a preliminary version of it running, so I think there's a good chance it will eventually be available. —Joe 16:28, 28 October 2007 (EDT)

Internet Access

Is there any program on the XO computer that eliminates inappropriate web access sites for kids?

Information on the Internet and Peru trial pages suggests that the countries themselves will be responsible for providing an Internet connection that is appropriately filtered. —Joe 18:17, 28 October 2007 (EDT)

Can the technology be adapted so students with language-based learning disabilities can use this?

My niece attends a private school for children with a wide range of learning differences. I would like to purchase one for her but am not sure how adaptable it will be. Can additional software be installed? The application for this population of student in that school setting would be wonderful. Not only could we provide the assisted technology to help LD students learn, but as well help all children around the world! I am most interested in pursuing this!

Laptop

What items will be inside the shipping box if bought from give one get one??

Protecting children from bad content on the internet

Does the sugar XO system effectively protect children from pornographic or other adult material on the internet and how is it done. Is it possible to circumvent these filters by adding new browser software or in other ways? With geek and source code buttons these children are being encouraged to look under the hood. I feel it of utmost importance to protect vulnerable children from pornography.

See the filtering question above. It seems the countries/schools will be responsible for filtering the internet before it even reaches the laptops. —Joe 20:40, 30 October 2007 (EDT)

Shipping give one get one

How long is the shipping once I purchase a $100 laptop from give one get one?

We will be setting up a first-come-first-served queue; but until we know the scale of the interest, we won't know the degree to which the volume will impact our production pipeline. We will develop a schedule for shipments and share it with the public as soon as possible.

Is the Get 1 computer the same as the Give 1?

I will participate in the Give 1 Get 1 program, and plan to take the Get 1 to my sister in Laos, who builds libraries there through her non-profit (www.thelanguageproject.org). Currently Laos is not among the governments that are participating in the OLPC program. For obvious reasons, I would therefore like to make sure that the Get 1 computer that I receive is exactly the same as the Give 1 computers that are sent to developing countries. Can this be arranged?

I don't think you get to choose where your "give 1" goes - you won't ever see it, it won't be shipped to you.

Battery

what type of battery will the give one get one laptop come with? Will it have the LiFeP battery or the NiMH battery?

I guess quite some people would like to know (me included), so it there any answer?

Give 1, Get 1 questions

1. I read that there is a limited number for this program and they will sell out in minutes. What time exactly will the program open? (time zone specific?) I want to be sure to get one when available.
2. I would like some info on what the computer includes as it will be sold in US for this program. I have read all the technical articles, etc., but I'm not a technology geek, so I'd like some plain words. Also, will we be able to download updates and additional programs as they are developed?
3. Will the version sold in US for the G1, G1 promotion include an alternate recharging source, or have one available as an option? (solar panel,crank, etc.) I would like to have this option, even though most of the time I will plug it in to recharge. There are times when I will want to use an alternate source of energy (camping trips, etc.)
   

Thanks for your info

Well, let's see if we can resolve some of this for you!

1. Here's the relevant text from an email OLPC sent out on November 9:

You are receiving this email because you requested a reminder from One Laptop per Child about our limited-time "Give One Get One" program. Starting Monday, November 12 at 6:00am EST, you will be able to donate one XO laptop to a child in the developing world and also receive a laptop for the child in your life, by visiting www.laptopgiving.org[2] or calling toll-free 1-877-70-LAPTOP.

2. Regarding the contents of the G1G1 package that you would receive, we'll probably know more after November 12. Right now, there's not much available other than what you can find in the Hardware specification of this wiki, and that nearly lists what might be available. Regarding software, though, if you look at the software over on the Activities page, it looks like any typical open source library - lots of different programs with new builds and releases being issued all the time. I don't think this will be a problem.

3. Sorry, I couldn't find out anything here regarding specifics about what will be shipped with the G1G1 program. (I'd like to know myself!) --Valichi 16:30, 9 November 2007 (EST)

ASUS Eee similarity

I saw a small laptop called the ASUS Eee PC. What is the difference between that and the $100 laptop?

You may want to look at the XO's hardware specs and the ASUS Eee's specs. As I see it, the main difference is that the XO is designed to be deployed as part of an educational program, especially in areas without a lot of technological infrastructure, while the Eee is designed to be used as a conventional ultra-portable laptop. So the XO has a spill- and dust-proof rugged case, a long battery life, mesh networking, a sunlight-readable display, and a tablet mode, while the Eee has a faster processor, more storage, a VGA port, an expansion slot, a more versatile card reader, maybe more memory, and a keyboard that may be more comfortable for an adult to type on. The Eee appears to be more expensive, but much of that may be overhead related to sales, advertising, and support; it's not clear how much it actually costs to make. They both ship with a Linux variant and other open-source software, although the Eee apparently includes other software, like Skype and Windows Media codecs. As the Wikipedia article says, the two laptops aren't really intended to compete with each other. —Joe 13:44, 3 November 2007 (EDT)

NGO'S CAN BE A POWERFUL TOOL IN YOUR IMPLIMENTATION

Greetings, I have read what you have to say about NGO's and how they would slow down your progress at implementation but I do want you to consider the fact that it is possible for NGO's to receive funding for educational purposes from international foundations and organizations. Perhaps a NGO could aid with the funding requirement of, for the sake of argument, the teaching of the educators in the use of the new machines. Surely with such new technology, instruction for the teaching staff would be required...and then there is the matter of initial set up, another area where outside funds could be used. It seems to me that they are numerous areas that NGO's could step in and help with the program, we just need to know that our efforts would be supported by you and the governments concerned. Some smaller third world countries simply do not have the funds for education that your program may demand. I am affiliated with a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that also holds a NGO in Belize. Our organization would be honored to help in your mission. Should you reconsider your position on NGO's, please keep us in mind. I feel sure that you can contact me by return email, as I do not wish to use your site for free advertisement. Your mission is noble and I respect your desire to educate the poor. JWB

Age range

What is the age range you are targeting ?

According to the Our Market page, it is ages 6 to 16 years. —Joe 15:53, 4 November 2007 (EST)

German localization

Exist a german software version of the OLPC? I like to get some for our clas here helping at same time with OLPS´s for Peru. Norbert

childs laptop

where or in which stores will the OLPC be sold

See the Ask OLPC a Question about Distribution page. —Joe 15:47, 4 November 2007 (EST)

How Does Wireless Work?

Do you need to sign up for wireless internet? If not how does the wireless work?

The XO laptops can communicate several ways using wireless networking. They can communicate with the internet through a nearby wireless router, or they can communicate directly with other XOs nearby (the wireless "mesh"); if any laptop in the mesh is near a wireless router, the others in the mesh can access the internet through this connection. The countries participating in the OLPC program will be setting up the wireless routers in their schools so that the students can access the internet. (If you are asking about the laptops received through the Give-One-Get-One program, you will need to find your own wireless service. Some libraries, coffee shops, and internet cafes provide this service to their patrons; otherwise, you will have to ask your local internet service provider about setting up wireless networking.) —Joe 15:27, 5 November 2007 (EST)

Note: According to a news article on the front page of the wiki, T-Mobile is offering a year of free wireless internet access for the Give-One-Get-One machines in certain locations throughout the U.S. —Joe 17:46, 7 November 2007 (EST)

Computer Usage

Do you have concrete stats on the level of computer access/usage around the globe? By country?

Drinking Water and Healthcare?

Why is giving a laptop to a child so important when issues such as safe drinking water and healthcare remain problems in so much of the world?

This is answered on the OLPC Myths page. —Joe 09:37, 6 November 2007 (EST)

Support for Give 1 Get 1 units?

My niece is interested in this program for her boys. What technical support is available for units purchased this way? What warranty?

Augmentative communication for special needs children

Please address how these laptop computers might help special needs children with their communication. Our daughter has had various augmentative communication devices but enjoys and seems to prefer using the computer. Her communication devices have voice output; are accessed using a dynamic touch screen and have word prediction capabilities. Her new device called the Chat PC is housed in a hand held Dell computer. The touch screen keyboard is so tiny that she has to use a stylus to type in the letters. It can be frustrating to use because of its size. Wouldn't your lap top computer be easier to use because the keyboard and screen are seperate? How much does it weigh? If it is easier to use it might be an even more powerful tool for communication than a hand held device. We would like to purchase one if possible but we need more information.

If possible I hope that your company will address the very important issues that these children face as they struggle to be understood. Molly Dobrowski

Judging from the Accessibility page, the OLPC plans to address a number of possible impairments, but, judging from activity on the mailing lists, some necessary details are still being decided. At the least, it sounds like some form of speech synthesis will be available on the production machines. It's not clear whether a trackpad would be easier to use than a touch-sensitive screen; one disabled user on the Talk:Accessibility page found the XO's trackpad difficult to use. (However, according to this page, a future version of the laptop may have a touch-sensitive screen.) The size and weight of the laptop is given on the Hardware page. —Joe 16:42, 7 November 2007 (EST)

About Jobs in OLPC

Hello.

I am interested in localization career. The career page says that I need to send my cover letter and CV. But I want further job description and have some questions. Can you please give me the HR department E-mail address. Thanks.

Muhammad

Impact on school culture

Hello, What's been the impact on school culture or environment: have teachers' perceptions changed concerning their environment since using OLPC; how are principals measuring the level of learning; do you have designated individuals contacting you regularly with progress data?

While perhaps someone else knows more about impact and ongoing feedback, there are a number of initial reports from pilot sites available in the Pilot Site section. —Joe 22:05, 7 November 2007 (EST)

What age group in the United States is this XO laptop appriate for? Can an adult keep a journal"

How much memory do these computers have? Can you create files to email and to access on this computer? Can you access the internet like any other lap top?

What age group in the United States, is this appropriate for?

Can a child in USA interact and communicate to a group of kids in a different country?

Can you download different software packages.

Basically haw is this similar to a regular lap top, because the demo makes it look completely different, unless the demo was just illustrating the educational teaching feature.

I definitly support these lap top for the kids in other countries, but I am trying to figure out how I can ustilize the Get One Give One program, and if this laptop would be something I could use, as a writer, and my 12 year old would benefit from.

Thank you

According to the Our market page the laptop is being designed for ages 6-16. Others can of course use it, but note that the keyboard is designed for small hands, so it may be uncomfortable for an adult to use for long periods. According to the Hardware page, the laptop has 256Mb of RAM and 1Gb of flash storage. There is currently no built-in e-mail client (although there may be in the future), but webmail (like Google mail) can be used. The laptop can use standard 802.11b wireless networking and it comes with a web browser based on Firefox, so it can access the internet in a manner similar to other laptops. To my knowledge, there is no system expressly set up to allow XO owners in different countries to communicate with each other, but there are existing pen pal services on the internet that could be used. There is additional software that can be downloaded and installed on the laptops—and in fact the laptops are designed to allow the children themselves to write software if they want—but note that most existing software (e.g. Windows programs) will not run on the laptops. The user interface to the laptops is quite different from traditional laptops in the hope that it will be easier for children to use.—Joe 14:30, 8 November 2007 (EST)

Time wasteth, 1 business day before merry XO-mas

Is there any hope of more complete answers on purchase-related questions in the one business day that remains?

Can you be more precise? Sj talk

I can, and I was, but they have moved the question set.

There's only so many ways I can ask these, but this particular question was about hope. The project brings hope to the young of a small country - that's wonderful. I kind of hope to get one too, but I despair if I can't actually help the child I know.

Note: SJ moved your list of questions to the Give1Get1 page and answered them there; he noted the change in the page history, but it's understandable that you didn't know to check this. I imagine that he didn't notice that this section was posted by the same person. (It's easier to sort these things out if you sign your comments and keep them together.) —Joe 13:16, 9 November 2007 (EST)

Since Joe notes the moved location now, I've trimmed it, go look there. It doesn't appear that non-staff can move their own questions side-by-side here though. (It was probably the same IP address; I did these from work.)

My real frustration is an understandable effect of few volunteers and a complex world - nobody ever asks me the *easy* questions anymore ... nor in a timely fashion. They happen when they happen, and those aren't always next to each other. sorry.

I'm not gonna dream of asking how anyone would help my friend's kid's German autistic school programme. If the OLPC doesn't survive her youngster it would hardly expect dozens of them to survive the batch of them :) and if the Germans can't afford any computers they want in whatever "Give Many" they'd want I'd be pretty surprised. (If someone wants to dream of answering this anyway, I hope you live in Germany and know how to make the XO pass the local whatever-it-is for general purpose use.) -- Heather

Laptop capabilities

I live in the U.S.A. I was thinking of getting a laptop for my 8yo. Can you connect to the internet as you could on any other laptop?

yes.

Does her friend(s) have to have one of these (OLPC) laptops to communicate or will it talk to any computer and do the same basic activities my home computer will do?

it can talk to other computers and to the internet. it comes with activities that are probably different than those on your home computer.

I would love to be able to help an under privledged child while helping my own, but I am not sure of the capabilities of your laptop----can you please give me more information and specifics....What a GREAT idea you have had and a dream come true for many children. Who knows, we could have some intelligent leaders in our future because of you!!!!

Thank You
R. Compton
Fairhope, Alabama

Depending on your level of computer literacy, you might want to consider looking first at the Activities page, to see what applications are native to the XO, or put another way, what applications will run on the XO without additional support. The Software components page will then tell you what other programs are being developed for the machine.

Regarding the XO itself, you might want to look at the Hardware specification page to get a better feel for what the XO hardware is capable of. --Valichi 16:39, 9 November 2007 (EST)

Battery life?

When I unplug my MacBook from the wall, it tells me how much battery time I have left. Usually this is around 3 hours. Does the XO do this and if so, on a full charge, how much time does it take during heavy use for the battery to discharge fully? In other words, how long does the battery last, worst case scenario? Thanks!

It does not tell you remaining time in minutes, but in percentage of charge; currently, if you do not use any power saving modes, it would last roughly as long as your macbook. Sj talk

Computer Friendly?

How user friendly are these computers? If I purchase one and donate one, do I have to add programs and download software? Do I have to add this computer to my current wireless program?What if you know nothing about computers, is this a good computer to learn on?

For the provided school-age kid activities, they are extremely user friendly. This includes web browsing. For other stuff, such as business use, they are more complicated and will likely require use of the command prompt. This is a good computer for learning if you really wish to understand how computers work.

Printing

Will it have printer hook up capabilities/ and if what printers will be compatible?? --Hopele 00:48, 9 November 2007 (EST)

The laptops do not currently support printing; see the Our Software page. —Joe 12:23, 9 November 2007 (EST)

what can I do with it?

Will it do secure online shopping? Will it work with YouTube?

Yes. No, unless you add extra software.

Internet connection in a no wifi ambient

Can I use usb port to connect OLPC via cable? In a lot on country (in china for example) is easier to meat a lan cable connection. The usb to lan adapters work on OLPC?

Yes. See USB ethernet adaptors for a list of adapters known to work. —Joe 12:04, 9 November 2007 (EST)

possible to download a mapping program?

Can tne DeLorean mapping software be loaded into your computer?

Microsoft compatibility

Would it be possible to load a Microsoft Windows OS on these?

While Microsoft is reportedly working on a version of Windows XP for the XO laptops, it is not known how successful they have been or if they plan to make the result available to the public. So for now the answer is no. —Joe 14:25, 9 November 2007 (EST)

WHERE IS THE BUY 1/10th DONATION BOX? I SEE TH: BUY ONE/GIVE ONE, 100+, 1000+

Wireless WPA Security

I really haven't seen this answered yet. Does the network driver support wireless security protocols??? WPA??? How easy & specifically what app is used to configure it as a security-enabled wireless access point?? All I've seen so far is nebulous answers.

I haven't seen it addressed, either, but apparently there is a closed trac ticket to fix WPA, so it seems reasonable to assume that WPA is possible with the XO's network driver, although it may not be easy to configure via a user interface, yet. This mailing list post implies that making advanced wireless security protocols easy to use is not a high priority, as of about a year ago. —Joe 03:36, 10 November 2007 (EST)

EN FRANÇAIS

J'AIMERAIS PARTICIPER AU PROGRAMME GIVE ONE GET ONE EN FRANÇAIS. Par exemple, offrir un ordinateur à un(e) enfant dans un pays FRANCOPHONE et en obtenir un pour une enfant francophone. Sera-t-il possible de le faire LE 12 NOVEMBRE?

Buy 1 Give 1

During the Buy 1, Give 1 offer, can an individual buy 2, give 2 or buy 3 give 3 or is it limited to one?

There is no limit. See SJ's comment on the Give1Get1 page. If you are planning to give large numbers of laptops, you might want to look at the Give Many page (buy 100- give 50 or buy 1000-give 250). —Joe 14:44, 12 November 2007 (EST)

Mentorship program for children

Getting a laptop opens the gateway to free resources on the web. However, at least in short-term, I think a mentor is needed for the child to guide them through. It could be done on a voluntary basis. Currently there seems no such focus in your voluntary services section. What do you think?

XO and PXE/Etherboot

Is it possible to network boot the XO using PXE and/or Etherboot? I ask because I'm a long-time K12LTSP user and would like to continue to provide this environment as an option to my teachers (and - who am I kidding - myself too!).

Best Regards, Mark

Language

Is the software on the XO translated into the child's native language? When the XO is used to search the Internet is it being translated into the native language?

A great deal of effort is being put into localizing the core XO activities, so that the children can work in their native language. You can read more (or participate) on the Localization page. When browsing the internet, the XO displays the pages in the language in which they are written, but the children can of course use free online translation tools like Google to get rough translations of the pages. —Joe 14:39, 12 November 2007 (EST)

WHEN will the Give 1 Get 1 initiative be available in other countries also?

We living in other countries will also like to participate in the Give 1 Get 1 initiative.

You are starting in the US and Canada. But declared that you will try to expand the program globally over time. Any chance that us living in Scandian Countries can be able to join before christmas 2007 ?

I don't know when G1G1 might be expanded, but note that according to point 5 of the G1G1 terms and conditions, there is no guarantee that the participants will receive the laptops before Christmas. —Joe 15:14, 12 November 2007 (EST)

Wireless internet availability in Kabul Afghanistan

I will be sending three of the laptops I ordered to a "Tent School" in Kabul, Afghanistan. There is no internet connection at the school. I am told the universities do not even have internet connection. I know that my friends use an internet cafe when they send email. Does One Laptop have a satellite or some other sort of wireless connection set up so that the children at this school could connect to the internet using the computers wireless capability?

Some of the students and teachers speak some English but I am not certain as to their fluency. Will they be able to get their own Arabic language on the computer?

Will directions for the operation of the computer (owner's manual) be available to them in their native language?

Printer

Can created documents be printed or can you send your work to a windows based computer and print through that computer? Do you sell a printer specific to this computer or can any printer be attached to it?

The laptops do not currently support printing; see the Our Software page. It should be possible to transfer files to a printer-capable computer, but this is likely something that only a technically minded adult could do, at this point. —Joe 14:09, 12 November 2007 (EST)

Other colors

I would love to purchase one for my daughter, but she favors fushia or pink. When this color is available will I still be able to purchase a computer from your company?

disk space?

how much disk space is on the OLPC?