USB monitor run on linux

Linux users should soon be able to use USB-connected monitors. DisplayLink has released Linux versions of its USB monitor and has partnered with Novell and the Linux Driver Project to develop drivers for desktops and mobile devices. DisplayLink’s chips are embedded in a growing number of USB-connected monitors, such as Mimo Monitors' little Mimo 710 enabling one or more high resolution displays to be connected via a standard USB 2.0 port.

Previously available only on Windows and Mac, the drivers can now be developed for Linux devices now that the source code library has been released under GNU Lesser General Public License v2 (LGPL). The library should enable the development of Linux X Servers, drivers, and other applications that work with the DisplayLink-compatible technology. As a result, USB-to-monitor attachments should be available on Linux devices including netbooks, notebooks, mobile Internet devices (MIDs), mobile phones, embedded displays, embedded devices, and digital signage.

A DisplayLink driver compresses graphics using adaptive compression technology that automatically balances compression methods based on the content, available CPU power, and USB bandwidth. The data is then sent out through the USB port to a monitor or other device with an embedded DisplayLink DL-120 or DL-160 chip, which include a USB port on one side and an analog, DVI, or FPI (LVDS) video port on the other. The chip decompresses the stream and enables instant cloning or extending of a desktop among multiple displays.

To accelerate deployment and development of Linux drivers and other software, DisplayLink has established partnerships with both Novell and the Linux Driver Project (LDP). Company is expecting to launch this USB monitor as soon as possible.

Linux based Waterproof panel PC

IEI Technology announced a rugged, Linux-Based, IP67-waterproof panel PC aimed at marine, avionics, military, mining, engineering, and industrial applications. The Sailor-12A and sunlight readable Sailor-12ASR run on 1.6GHz Intel Atom processors, and offer 12.1-inch, 1024 x 768 touchscreens and 802.11b/g/n WiFi.

The Sailor-12A is equipped with a die-cast aluminum enclosure that helps to dissipate heat, enabling fanless operation. The sealed IP67 and NEMA6 compliant chassis, touchpanel, connectors, and optional cables are waterproof, and the system is "designed for high reliability, shock and vibration tolerance, use under an extreme range of temperatures and in harsh environments. The Sailor-12A uses the same Atom N270 and Intel 945GSE + ICH7M chipset typically found on netbooks. The device's WiFi radio supports 802.11n standard, which offers up to twice the range of 802.11g, as well as faster speeds of 300- to 600Mbps. Storage options include a CompactFlash II slot and a 2.5-inch SATA hard disk drive (HDD) bay.

The 12.1-inch touchscreen is said to offer an ambient light sensor for automated screen adjustments to optimize viewing. The optional Sailor-12ASR adds to that with Anti-Reflection (AR) technology and "advanced deep dimming to black" for better readability in sunlight.

Technical specifiaction

* Processor -- Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz with Intel 945GSE + ICH7M chipset
* Memory -- up to 2GB 533MHz DDR2
* Flash expansion -- CompactFlash II slot
* Storage -- 2.5-inch SATA HDD bay
* Display -- 12.1-inch, 1024 x 768 TFT LCD; 400 nits high brightness rating (1,000 nits for ASR model); 500:1 contrast (700:1 for ASR model); anti-reflection, edge lighting, and auto-dimming on ASR model
* Keypad -- Membrane keypad with LCD on/off, brightness, volume, and auto dimming controls
* WiFi -- 802.11 b/g/n with internal antenna
* Power consumption -- 33W
* Dimensions -- 13.6 x 11.8 x 3.0 inches (345.3 x 300.4 x 77mm)
* Weight -- 9 lbs, 4.15 oz (4.2 kg)
* Operating temperature -- 14 to 122 deg. F (-10 to 50 deg. C)
* Operating system -- Linux, Windows CE 6.0, and Windows XP Embedded