- Comet is a mix of Raspberry Pi, Simputer and Project Ara with a touch of Game Boy
- Its standout feature is the use of hardware extensions that can be quickly removed
- It will be launched on the crowdfunding platform, Kickstarter, very soon
Simputer (Simple Inexpensive Mobile computer) was developed in India in the early 2000s and was a pioneering Linux handheld computer that many believe inspired the Apple iPhone (and by extension Android devices). It featured a touch interface, stylus input with handwriting recognition, an accelerometer and a USB master port – all innovations far ahead of their time.
I mention Simputer now because I’m reminded that it’s looking at a brand new modular handheld kit that’s debuting on Kickstarter soon – the Mecha Comet is a portable Linux device aimed at developers, makers, and hangovers.
The device runs on open source software and has a magnetic snap interface for interchangeable expansions, which currently includes a game controller, keyboard and GPIO breakout board. Users can also design and build their own extensions using Mecha’s open source design files and community support.
Mechanix OS
The Mecha Comet is powered by a 1.8GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor with 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 32GB of eMMC storage.
Its 3.4-inch IPS LED touchscreen provides a compact yet functional display for various tasks. Connectivity includes dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5.0GHz), Bluetooth 5.0, two USB 2.0 ports and a Gigabit Ethernet port. The device also includes a 5 MP camera with autofocus, dual digital microphones and an HD speaker.
Comet, running Mechanix OS, a Debian-based operating system, is compatible with over 60,000 software packages from the Debian repository. Users can also port other Linux distributions. Mechanix Shell, built in Rust, supports GPU rendering on Wayland.
Mecha envisions the Comet as a versatile tool for various applications, such as a DIY Linux phone, drone launchpad, AI assistant, nanosatellite controller, car diagnostic tool, radio transceiver, DIY robot controller, and even a Tricorder inspired by Star Trek. However, some of these ideas may just be wishful thinking.
Measuring 150mm x 73.55mm x 16mm and weighing 220g, the Comet has a 3000mAh battery charged via USB-C and includes a gyroscope, real-time clock (RTC) and analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for extended project opportunities. Its security features include a Trust Anchor with CC EAL 6+ certification and accelerated cryptographic capabilities.
Kickstarter backers will be able to take advantage of super early-bird rewards when the project goes live shortly, with prices for the Mecha Comet starting at $159.
