Nova netPC - Low Cost Computers Launched by BSNL, Novatium

A Chennai based IT solutions company Novatium and BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) launched most awaited Low-Cost Computers on Friday. This will boost the number of computer and internet users in the country. Also, this will help achieve a target of 9 million broadband connections across the country in the next couple of years. These unbelievably low-cost computers are given a name "Nova netPC".

Nova netPC, available in two packages (down payment of Rs.1,999 and a monthly charge of Rs.199, and an upfront fee of Rs.2,999 and monthly subscription of Rs.175), is available at BSNL’s outlets in the city.

Anyone would think, how could a computer be this cheap? Well, the answer is this: The user is provided only with a set top box, keyboard and mouse. And most hardware functions of a computer will be managed by a central server. Most of the widely used applications will be available to the user. The central server will facilitate access to the BSNL’s broadband conduit, for which the user will need to subscribe to any of the DataOne monthly plans.

Some of the Key-Features of this next technology Nova netPC are listed below:

• It does not carry the burden of the CPU, software, hard disc, and applications – all these elements reside in the central server at the administrator’s end.
• It has a simple architecture – based on that of mobile phone and media player chips. This reduces the cost of the device.
• It is multimedia enabled, with the capacity to provide real-time multimedia experience.
• It is compatible with Windows/Linux/Solaris operating systems.
• It can support multiple USB peripherals (USB pen drive, USB hard disk, USB printer, digital cameras, etc.), speakers and microphone.
• It is an appliance-like device – all you need to do is to switch on and log in.
• It is Internet ready - there is no need to approach Internet Service Providers for Internet access.
• It consumes about 5 W of power – hence there is no issue of increasing electricity bills.
• It has the capacity to be connected to either a VGA monitor or a television. Hence the user can access computing and entertainment through their televisions.
• It is compatible with the regular home environment and does not require an air-conditioned environment.
  

Making a choice between a Desktop PC or a Laptop will no longer be an issue, said Mr. Kuldeep Goyal, Chairman and Managing Director of BSNL. He added, the total number of broadband users in the country was only 5.25 million, which was less than 1 per cent of the population. In developed societies, the penetration levels were as high as 60 per cent or more.