Discussion:
[PLUG] Wanted: handheld data collection device with Linux OS
Richard Owlett
2018-11-11 14:34:45 UTC
Permalink
I'm looking for a current production Linux handheld data collection
device {aka PDA} similar in form and function to a Palm Pilot
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PalmPilot).

A major justification of Linux OS is to allow custom software.

Specification:
be currently available from U.S. retail vendor.
have a physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot
should have provision for using a USB/Bluetooth connected keyboard.
be able to read/write a USB flash drive (preferably FAT32 or ext2).
*no* cell network connectivity .
must *NOT* be shipped with Android OS

Yes, this thread resembles one from a year ago.
I'm renewing by search first done a decade ago.
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.

My web searches have turned up "we're working on it" type answers and
crowdfunding appeals.

Any suggestions other than putting up with a smartphone?
TIA
Rich Shepard
2018-11-11 15:13:34 UTC
Permalink
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and a Palm
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the time all
the Treos die.)

Rich
Larry Brigman
2018-11-11 16:36:09 UTC
Permalink
Did you happen to find the pocketChip in your search?
https://makerprojectlab.com/pocket-chip-review/
https://shop.pocketchip.co/

There is probably plans on thingy for a 3d printed case.
Post by Rich Shepard
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and a Palm
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the time all
the Treos die.)
Rich
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PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Richard Owlett
2018-11-11 19:56:58 UTC
Permalink
I had seen some about it before or as starting production.
I does not meet my "current production" requirement as
"By March 2018, Next Thing Co. had entered insolvency. Many customers
still had not received their pre-orders."
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_Thing_Co.#Milestones]
Post by Larry Brigman
Did you happen to find the pocketChip in your search?
https://makerprojectlab.com/pocket-chip-review/
https://shop.pocketchip.co/
There is probably plans on thingy for a 3d printed case.
Post by Rich Shepard
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and a Palm
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the time all
the Treos die.)
Rich
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PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
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http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Nat Taylor
2018-11-12 04:43:23 UTC
Permalink
How about the Nokia N900 or the Neo900? https://neo900.org/
I guess they have cellular modems.
The Nokia N770 N800 and N810 all have no cellular modem.

You could put a raspberry pi (zero or no) in your own custom case with
touchscreen...
https://www.reddit.com/r/linux/comments/4biamr/a_list_of_handheldpocket_linux_computers/
https://pyra-handheld.com/boards/pages/pyra/
Post by Richard Owlett
I had seen some about it before or as starting production.
I does not meet my "current production" requirement as
"By March 2018, Next Thing Co. had entered insolvency. Many customers
still had not received their pre-orders."
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_Thing_Co.#Milestones]
Post by Larry Brigman
Did you happen to find the pocketChip in your search?
https://makerprojectlab.com/pocket-chip-review/
https://shop.pocketchip.co/
There is probably plans on thingy for a 3d printed case.
Post by Rich Shepard
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and a
Palm
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the time all
the Treos die.)
Rich
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PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
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Russell Senior
2018-11-12 07:52:06 UTC
Permalink
I built one of these. It provides mechanical inputs and a case for
your raspberry pi as well as an LED display:

https://hackaday.io/project/4434-pidp-8i
Post by Nat Taylor
How about the Nokia N900 or the Neo900? https://neo900.org/
I guess they have cellular modems.
The Nokia N770 N800 and N810 all have no cellular modem.
You could put a raspberry pi (zero or no) in your own custom case with
touchscreen...
https://www.reddit.com/r/linux/comments/4biamr/a_list_of_handheldpocket_linux_computers/
https://pyra-handheld.com/boards/pages/pyra/
Post by Richard Owlett
I had seen some about it before or as starting production.
I does not meet my "current production" requirement as
"By March 2018, Next Thing Co. had entered insolvency. Many customers
still had not received their pre-orders."
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_Thing_Co.#Milestones]
Post by Larry Brigman
Did you happen to find the pocketChip in your search?
https://makerprojectlab.com/pocket-chip-review/
https://shop.pocketchip.co/
There is probably plans on thingy for a 3d printed case.
Post by Rich Shepard
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and a
Palm
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the time all
the Treos die.)
Rich
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
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Richard Owlett
2018-11-12 13:13:59 UTC
Permalink
Post by Nat Taylor
How about the Nokia N900 or the Neo900? https://neo900.org/
Quotes from URL:> This is a crowdfunded project and the device is
currently in development.
&
Post by Nat Taylor
You can now place down payments to partially fund Neo900 devices and NeoN boards in our shop!
If it makes it to production before I find something else, it may be
suitable.
Post by Nat Taylor
I guess they have cellular modems. > The Nokia N770 N800 and N810 all have no cellular modem.
Evidently no longer in production
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nokia_products#Past_products_and_services]
Post by Nat Taylor
You could put a raspberry pi (zero or no) in your own custom case with
touchscreen...
https://www.reddit.com/r/linux/comments/4biamr/a_list_of_handheldpocket_linux_computers/
Lists only discontinued or DIY items.
Post by Nat Taylor
https://pyra-handheld.com/boards/pages/pyra/
Not yet in production.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
I had seen some about it before or as starting production.
I does not meet my "current production" requirement as
"By March 2018, Next Thing Co. had entered insolvency. Many customers
still had not received their pre-orders."
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_Thing_Co.#Milestones]
Post by Larry Brigman
Did you happen to find the pocketChip in your search?
https://makerprojectlab.com/pocket-chip-review/
https://shop.pocketchip.co/
There is probably plans on thingy for a 3d printed case.
Post by Rich Shepard
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and a
Palm
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the time all
the Treos die.)
Rich
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
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Nat Taylor
2018-11-13 01:29:45 UTC
Permalink
Here's a dual boot linux/android pda in production.
You might be able to get it without android, or delete android yourself...
https://store.planetcom.co.uk/collections/gemini-pda/products/gemini-pda-wifi-only?variant=6314880499739
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Nat Taylor
How about the Nokia N900 or the Neo900? https://neo900.org/
Quotes from URL:> This is a crowdfunded project and the device is
currently in development.
&
Post by Nat Taylor
You can now place down payments to partially fund Neo900 devices and
NeoN boards in our shop!
If it makes it to production before I find something else, it may be
suitable.
Post by Nat Taylor
I guess they have cellular modems. > The Nokia N770 N800 and N810 all
have no cellular modem.
Evidently no longer in production
[
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nokia_products#Past_products_and_services
]
Post by Nat Taylor
You could put a raspberry pi (zero or no) in your own custom case with
touchscreen...
https://www.reddit.com/r/linux/comments/4biamr/a_list_of_handheldpocket_linux_computers/
Lists only discontinued or DIY items.
Post by Nat Taylor
https://pyra-handheld.com/boards/pages/pyra/
Not yet in production.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
I had seen some about it before or as starting production.
I does not meet my "current production" requirement as
"By March 2018, Next Thing Co. had entered insolvency. Many customers
still had not received their pre-orders."
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_Thing_Co.#Milestones]
Post by Larry Brigman
Did you happen to find the pocketChip in your search?
https://makerprojectlab.com/pocket-chip-review/
https://shop.pocketchip.co/
There is probably plans on thingy for a 3d printed case.
Post by Rich Shepard
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and a
Palm
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the
time
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
all
the Treos die.)
Rich
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
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_______________________________________________
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Nat Taylor
2018-11-13 01:33:15 UTC
Permalink
It's Debian!
https://liliputing.com/2018/01/hands-gemini-pda-handheld-pc-android-linux-6-inch-display.html
Post by Nat Taylor
Here's a dual boot linux/android pda in production.
You might be able to get it without android, or delete android yourself...
https://store.planetcom.co.uk/collections/gemini-pda/products/gemini-pda-wifi-only?variant=6314880499739
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Nat Taylor
How about the Nokia N900 or the Neo900? https://neo900.org/
Quotes from URL:> This is a crowdfunded project and the device is
currently in development.
&
Post by Nat Taylor
You can now place down payments to partially fund Neo900 devices and
NeoN boards in our shop!
If it makes it to production before I find something else, it may be
suitable.
Post by Nat Taylor
I guess they have cellular modems. > The Nokia N770 N800 and N810 all
have no cellular modem.
Evidently no longer in production
[
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nokia_products#Past_products_and_services
]
Post by Nat Taylor
You could put a raspberry pi (zero or no) in your own custom case with
touchscreen...
https://www.reddit.com/r/linux/comments/4biamr/a_list_of_handheldpocket_linux_computers/
Lists only discontinued or DIY items.
Post by Nat Taylor
https://pyra-handheld.com/boards/pages/pyra/
Not yet in production.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
I had seen some about it before or as starting production.
I does not meet my "current production" requirement as
"By March 2018, Next Thing Co. had entered insolvency. Many customers
still had not received their pre-orders."
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_Thing_Co.#Milestones]
Post by Larry Brigman
Did you happen to find the pocketChip in your search?
https://makerprojectlab.com/pocket-chip-review/
https://shop.pocketchip.co/
There is probably plans on thingy for a 3d printed case.
Post by Rich Shepard
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and
a
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
Palm
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the
time
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
all
the Treos die.)
Rich
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
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Richard Owlett
2018-11-13 05:09:42 UTC
Permalink
Post by Nat Taylor
Here's a dual boot linux/android pda in production.
You might be able to get it without android, or delete android yourself...
Being dual boot deals my objections to Android.
Post by Nat Taylor
https://store.planetcom.co.uk/collections/gemini-pda/products/gemini-pda-wifi-only?variant=6314880499739
There was some missing information and a bad link on that page.
I've requested clarification.

Even when buying on line I favor brick-n-mortar companies and have never
made an international transaction. My future could be interesting ;/

Thanks.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Nat Taylor
How about the Nokia N900 or the Neo900? https://neo900.org/
Quotes from URL:> This is a crowdfunded project and the device is
currently in development.
&
Post by Nat Taylor
You can now place down payments to partially fund Neo900 devices and
NeoN boards in our shop!
If it makes it to production before I find something else, it may be
suitable.
Post by Nat Taylor
I guess they have cellular modems. > The Nokia N770 N800 and N810 all
have no cellular modem.
Evidently no longer in production
[
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nokia_products#Past_products_and_services
]
Post by Nat Taylor
You could put a raspberry pi (zero or no) in your own custom case with
touchscreen...
https://www.reddit.com/r/linux/comments/4biamr/a_list_of_handheldpocket_linux_computers/
Lists only discontinued or DIY items.
Post by Nat Taylor
https://pyra-handheld.com/boards/pages/pyra/
Not yet in production.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
I had seen some about it before or as starting production.
I does not meet my "current production" requirement as
"By March 2018, Next Thing Co. had entered insolvency. Many customers
still had not received their pre-orders."
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_Thing_Co.#Milestones]
Post by Larry Brigman
Did you happen to find the pocketChip in your search?
https://makerprojectlab.com/pocket-chip-review/
https://shop.pocketchip.co/
There is probably plans on thingy for a 3d printed case.
Post by Rich Shepard
Post by Richard Owlett
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
eBay probably has them for sale. I bought backup Treo 700ps and a
Palm
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
Pilot on eBay because they are so useful (the Palm Pilot is for the
time
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Larry Brigman
Post by Rich Shepard
all
the Treos die.)
Rich
Keith Lofstrom
2018-11-13 02:30:26 UTC
Permalink
Post by Nat Taylor
https://neo900.org/
The Neo900 sounds fascinating. At $550, I don't need
another timesink, but if this has a good chance to evolve
into a useful "smart" phone managed by an open source
community, I might consider joining the crowdfunding
effort and committing the time to learn to use the
device when it "goes beta".

I spent a couple of months fiddling with an Android,
hoping I could jailbreak it into a device that served
/me/ rather than serving me to Google's paying customers
(advertisers, NSA, Palantir, etc.). It was modifying me
faster than I was modifying it, so I'm back to a
brickphone for now.

So, I'm /not/ looking for a pseudo-Android, but a window
into an independent global project dedicated to freedom
and collaboration, not distraction and consumption.

What are the chances that Neo900 might evolve into this?
What are the barriers on the way?

Keith
--
Keith Lofstrom ***@keithl.com
Tomas Kuchta
2018-11-13 05:36:25 UTC
Permalink
It was probably mentioned her before - Purism is working on their Librem 5
smartphone. That one should be pretty open and free out of the box.

That is perhaps the easiest and the only free user serving smartphone since
the failed Ubuntu phones.

Check it out at https://puri.sm/

Maybe that is what you are looking for.

Tomas
Post by Keith Lofstrom
Post by Nat Taylor
https://neo900.org/
The Neo900 sounds fascinating. At $550, I don't need
another timesink, but if this has a good chance to evolve
into a useful "smart" phone managed by an open source
community, I might consider joining the crowdfunding
effort and committing the time to learn to use the
device when it "goes beta".
I spent a couple of months fiddling with an Android,
hoping I could jailbreak it into a device that served
/me/ rather than serving me to Google's paying customers
(advertisers, NSA, Palantir, etc.). It was modifying me
faster than I was modifying it, so I'm back to a
brickphone for now.
So, I'm /not/ looking for a pseudo-Android, but a window
into an independent global project dedicated to freedom
and collaboration, not distraction and consumption.
What are the chances that Neo900 might evolve into this?
What are the barriers on the way?
Keith
--
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Richard Owlett
2018-11-13 12:17:45 UTC
Permalink
Post by Tomas Kuchta
It was probably mentioned her before - Purism is working on their Librem 5
smartphone. That one should be pretty open and free out of the box.
That is perhaps the easiest and the only free user serving smartphone since
the failed Ubuntu phones.
Check it out at https://puri.sm/
Maybe that is what you are looking for.
Tomas
If I ever become interested in a "smartphone", I would investigate
further. Recall one of my specifications was " *no* cell network
connectivity".

My use cases would described as "a relatively dumb handheld data
collection device".
Denis Heidtmann
2018-11-14 01:32:49 UTC
Permalink
A cell phone without a sim card has no cell network connectivity.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Tomas Kuchta
It was probably mentioned her before - Purism is working on their Librem
5
Post by Tomas Kuchta
smartphone. That one should be pretty open and free out of the box.
That is perhaps the easiest and the only free user serving smartphone
since
Post by Tomas Kuchta
the failed Ubuntu phones.
Check it out at https://puri.sm/
Maybe that is what you are looking for.
Tomas
If I ever become interested in a "smartphone", I would investigate
further. Recall one of my specifications was " *no* cell network
connectivity".
My use cases would described as "a relatively dumb handheld data
collection device".
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Tyrell Jentink
2018-11-14 01:45:30 UTC
Permalink
Not to fuel the conspiracy theorists... But that's not SUPPOSED to be
true...

E911 is SUPPOSED to REQUIRE cell phone carriers to support ALL devices
CAPABLE of connecting to their network to make 911 calls, regardless of if
that device actually has an active plan.

So... Any device with a modem SHOULD connect to SOMETHING, even if it has
no SIM.

Now... I keep saying "Should" because that's what the Wikipedia page says
it's supposed to do... But I entirely lack certainty that the modem is
actually complete, and therefore capable of connecting, without a SIM...
And I sure as hell don't have the courage to dial 911 without a sim card to
find out.
Post by Denis Heidtmann
A cell phone without a sim card has no cell network connectivity.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Tomas Kuchta
It was probably mentioned her before - Purism is working on their
Librem
Post by Richard Owlett
5
Post by Tomas Kuchta
smartphone. That one should be pretty open and free out of the box.
That is perhaps the easiest and the only free user serving smartphone
since
Post by Tomas Kuchta
the failed Ubuntu phones.
Check it out at https://puri.sm/
Maybe that is what you are looking for.
Tomas
If I ever become interested in a "smartphone", I would investigate
further. Recall one of my specifications was " *no* cell network
connectivity".
My use cases would described as "a relatively dumb handheld data
collection device".
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
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http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Johnathan Mantey
2018-11-13 17:34:43 UTC
Permalink
I have not watched any of these vids, so I can't say how apropos the
contents are to your search.
I do know that one of the devices is kaput (PocketChip).

5 hand held linux computers under 200 compared:

Noodle Pi - Linux powered modular PDA:

Post by Tomas Kuchta
It was probably mentioned her before - Purism is working on their Librem 5
smartphone. That one should be pretty open and free out of the box.
That is perhaps the easiest and the only free user serving smartphone since
the failed Ubuntu phones.
Check it out at https://puri.sm/
Maybe that is what you are looking for.
Tomas
Post by Keith Lofstrom
Post by Nat Taylor
https://neo900.org/
The Neo900 sounds fascinating. At $550, I don't need
another timesink, but if this has a good chance to evolve
into a useful "smart" phone managed by an open source
community, I might consider joining the crowdfunding
effort and committing the time to learn to use the
device when it "goes beta".
I spent a couple of months fiddling with an Android,
hoping I could jailbreak it into a device that served
/me/ rather than serving me to Google's paying customers
(advertisers, NSA, Palantir, etc.). It was modifying me
faster than I was modifying it, so I'm back to a
brickphone for now.
So, I'm /not/ looking for a pseudo-Android, but a window
into an independent global project dedicated to freedom
and collaboration, not distraction and consumption.
What are the chances that Neo900 might evolve into this?
What are the barriers on the way?
Keith
--
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Larry Brigman
2018-11-13 17:25:17 UTC
Permalink
I think these requirements are about 20+ years too late. Even when there
were PDA devices to they didn't have standard USB connections as the
connector was too large.

The retail market is Android or iPhone these days.
To get something close you would probably need to start searching in the
industrial area. Those devices will be very expensive.

20+ years ago, I set up a data collection system. It used a handheld
terminal with a hardwired serial connection.
The system was driven from screens via database coding.

Adding custom software to any device should be the norm even for Windows
devices. You would just need to learn the SDK to write it yourself.

Devices with cell phone communication are required to have an Airplane mode
to turn the radio off.
Post by Richard Owlett
I'm looking for a current production Linux handheld data collection
device {aka PDA} similar in form and function to a Palm Pilot
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PalmPilot).
A major justification of Linux OS is to allow custom software.
be currently available from U.S. retail vendor.
have a physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot
should have provision for using a USB/Bluetooth connected keyboard.
be able to read/write a USB flash drive (preferably FAT32 or ext2).
*no* cell network connectivity .
must *NOT* be shipped with Android OS
Yes, this thread resembles one from a year ago.
I'm renewing by search first done a decade ago.
I kick myself for not having purchased a Palm Pilot back in the day.
My web searches have turned up "we're working on it" type answers and
crowdfunding appeals.
Any suggestions other than putting up with a smartphone?
TIA
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PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Richard Owlett
2018-11-13 18:04:32 UTC
Permalink
Post by Larry Brigman
The retail market is Android or iPhone these days.
So what? Consumers are sheep herded by Madison Ave.

I can not be the only one looking for something very similar.
Other wise there would not be so many crowdfunding projects that only
failure was being available for too short a time span.
I.E. I find out about them too late.
Richard Owlett
2018-11-13 21:20:24 UTC
Permalink
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.

How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?

TIA
Post by Larry Brigman
The retail market is Android or iPhone these days.
So what? Consumers are sheep herded by  Madison Ave.
I can not be the only one looking for something very similar.
Other wise there would not be so many crowdfunding projects that only
failure was being available for too short a time span.
I.E. I find out about them too late.
Bill Barry
2018-11-13 21:40:26 UTC
Permalink
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
TIA
I think that is not possible. If your questions are so well posed that they
need no interpretation then google will answer them fine. If a person needs
to interpret your question then you will get at least as many
interpretations as people that read it. Questions often have compiler or
run time bugs that need to be fixed before they can be answered.

BIll
Larry Brigman
2018-11-13 21:57:27 UTC
Permalink
No offense taken.

I have worked as a test engineer in multiple areas and as a software
engineer including doing some embedded development.
I typically get requirements for the task to be accomplished and some idea
of budget.

With that information I craft a design or select hardware for a
hardware/software solution.

From my projects, I have always needed to have some level of connectivity.

For remote field collection of data, I would still want external
connectivity such that the data collected wout automatically transfer when
connected to the network.

For long term collection; internet of things or custom solutions use mesh
networks with points of upload via cell networks or satellite.

Data collection is more about the data than how it is collected or on what
OS platform. The bigger issue would be making sure the data is
transferable and in a readability format.

The list tries to assist with your request and requirements. When we
cannot find exactly what is required, we pose possible alternatives. Not
knowing the underlying requirements sometimes gets you responses that go
far a field.
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
TIA
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Larry Brigman
The retail market is Android or iPhone these days.
So what? Consumers are sheep herded by Madison Ave.
I can not be the only one looking for something very similar.
Other wise there would not be so many crowdfunding projects that only
failure was being available for too short a time span.
I.E. I find out about them too late.
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Russell Senior
2018-11-14 01:46:06 UTC
Permalink
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
--
Russell Senior
***@personaltelco.net
Richard Owlett
2018-11-15 14:32:29 UTC
Permalink
Post by Russell Senior
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
ROFL? Don't know if I should laugh, cry, groan, or inspire a SNL skit ;}
Been "living with 'it' " for ~half a century :}
Who? Me? Strange world view? <snicker>

More seriously, compared to other fora this one has a better track
record of answering the questions actually asked rather than the
question that some wished I had asked.

You have to see the humor of this thread.

1. I state I'm interested in current production.
It is suggested I buy decade old units on ebay.
Some came closer by mentioning things that barely made it out of
a crowd funding phase before ceasing production.

2. I specify *"physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot"* and
having USB connectivity.
I can't have that as USB did not exist in Palm Pilot era.

3. I specify a "Linux device" and " *NOT* be shipped with Android OS".
I'm told that is unreasonable as ~"everybody uses Android".
[One person did point to a device shipped with Linux dual booted. It
meets my underlying requirement on not having to deal with Android.
It is unclear if it has yet entered production &/or ships with my
preferred mix of options. I'm tracking it.]

I've had requests for justification of some of my specifications.

My physical environment strongly influences my choices:
1. due to >70 years of wear-n-tear my doctor would like data.
2. pen and paper is non-viable.
3. I'm on an exercise program which would benefit from records.
4. walking with a pair of forearm crutches which introduces
portability issues.

I specify Linux for choice of installing only relevant software
and is easily customized - in my case by Tcl/Tk scripts.

Android is not acceptable due to personal experience. A few years ago
Lenovo had a cell phone available in three configurations:
1. with sim card and a cell phone carrier.
2. with no sim card installed making cell connectivity optional.
3. *without* possibility of installing a sim card.
I bought one of the later discovering:
1. primary source of _free software_ was Google who required an
unacceptable amount of personal info for "free" software.
2. it placed unreasonable barriers to installing a preferred OS.

I referenced Palm Pilot due to it's form factor and capabilities:
1. nominal size 6" x 4" x 1" would be good - thinner better.
2. as an example of minimal capabilities.

Cell connectivity serves no useful purpose and gives manufacturers
unreasonable justifications for restrictions on user modifications
to their personal property. Current discussion of E911 connectivity
requirements without a sim card points out possible undesirable
unintended side effects of unintentional 911 calls.
unreasonable range.

Specifying availability from U.S. retail vendor handles some personal
preferences.

A long winded post. But ... ;/

Owl ducks fer cover.
Johnathan Mantey
2018-11-15 15:10:13 UTC
Permalink
Richard,

I viewed one of the links I provided in the "old devices" thread, related
to this one. It seems based on what I just read that the *Noodle Pi* may
be very close to your list of requirements.
I also sent another link, which I have not viewed, comparing 5 different
handheld devices http://youtu.be/dXNllO79_68

You hadn't commented on the info provided, so I wanted to add it to this
thread.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Russell Senior
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
ROFL? Don't know if I should laugh, cry, groan, or inspire a SNL skit ;}
Been "living with 'it' " for ~half a century :}
Who? Me? Strange world view? <snicker>
More seriously, compared to other fora this one has a better track
record of answering the questions actually asked rather than the
question that some wished I had asked.
You have to see the humor of this thread.
1. I state I'm interested in current production.
It is suggested I buy decade old units on ebay.
Some came closer by mentioning things that barely made it out of
a crowd funding phase before ceasing production.
2. I specify *"physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot"* and
having USB connectivity.
I can't have that as USB did not exist in Palm Pilot era.
3. I specify a "Linux device" and " *NOT* be shipped with Android OS".
I'm told that is unreasonable as ~"everybody uses Android".
[One person did point to a device shipped with Linux dual booted. It
meets my underlying requirement on not having to deal with Android.
It is unclear if it has yet entered production &/or ships with my
preferred mix of options. I'm tracking it.]
I've had requests for justification of some of my specifications.
1. due to >70 years of wear-n-tear my doctor would like data.
2. pen and paper is non-viable.
3. I'm on an exercise program which would benefit from records.
4. walking with a pair of forearm crutches which introduces
portability issues.
I specify Linux for choice of installing only relevant software
and is easily customized - in my case by Tcl/Tk scripts.
Android is not acceptable due to personal experience. A few years ago
1. with sim card and a cell phone carrier.
2. with no sim card installed making cell connectivity optional.
3. *without* possibility of installing a sim card.
1. primary source of _free software_ was Google who required an
unacceptable amount of personal info for "free" software.
2. it placed unreasonable barriers to installing a preferred OS.
1. nominal size 6" x 4" x 1" would be good - thinner better.
2. as an example of minimal capabilities.
Cell connectivity serves no useful purpose and gives manufacturers
unreasonable justifications for restrictions on user modifications
to their personal property. Current discussion of E911 connectivity
requirements without a sim card points out possible undesirable
unintended side effects of unintentional 911 calls.
unreasonable range.
Specifying availability from U.S. retail vendor handles some personal
preferences.
A long winded post. But ... ;/
Owl ducks fer cover.
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Nat Taylor
2018-11-15 15:29:00 UTC
Permalink
The Dual Boot Gemini is in production, and is available in wifi-only.
You can buy it here:
https://store.planetcom.co.uk/collections/gemini-pda/products/gemini-pda-wifi-only?variant=6314880499739
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Richard,
I viewed one of the links I provided in the "old devices" thread, related
to this one. It seems based on what I just read that the *Noodle Pi* may
be very close to your list of requirements.
I also sent another link, which I have not viewed, comparing 5 different
handheld devices http://youtu.be/dXNllO79_68
You hadn't commented on the info provided, so I wanted to add it to this
thread.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Russell Senior
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
ROFL? Don't know if I should laugh, cry, groan, or inspire a SNL skit ;}
Been "living with 'it' " for ~half a century :}
Who? Me? Strange world view? <snicker>
More seriously, compared to other fora this one has a better track
record of answering the questions actually asked rather than the
question that some wished I had asked.
You have to see the humor of this thread.
1. I state I'm interested in current production.
It is suggested I buy decade old units on ebay.
Some came closer by mentioning things that barely made it out of
a crowd funding phase before ceasing production.
2. I specify *"physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot"* and
having USB connectivity.
I can't have that as USB did not exist in Palm Pilot era.
3. I specify a "Linux device" and " *NOT* be shipped with Android OS".
I'm told that is unreasonable as ~"everybody uses Android".
[One person did point to a device shipped with Linux dual booted. It
meets my underlying requirement on not having to deal with Android.
It is unclear if it has yet entered production &/or ships with my
preferred mix of options. I'm tracking it.]
I've had requests for justification of some of my specifications.
1. due to >70 years of wear-n-tear my doctor would like data.
2. pen and paper is non-viable.
3. I'm on an exercise program which would benefit from records.
4. walking with a pair of forearm crutches which introduces
portability issues.
I specify Linux for choice of installing only relevant software
and is easily customized - in my case by Tcl/Tk scripts.
Android is not acceptable due to personal experience. A few years ago
1. with sim card and a cell phone carrier.
2. with no sim card installed making cell connectivity optional.
3. *without* possibility of installing a sim card.
1. primary source of _free software_ was Google who required an
unacceptable amount of personal info for "free" software.
2. it placed unreasonable barriers to installing a preferred OS.
1. nominal size 6" x 4" x 1" would be good - thinner better.
2. as an example of minimal capabilities.
Cell connectivity serves no useful purpose and gives manufacturers
unreasonable justifications for restrictions on user modifications
to their personal property. Current discussion of E911 connectivity
requirements without a sim card points out possible undesirable
unintended side effects of unintentional 911 calls.
unreasonable range.
Specifying availability from U.S. retail vendor handles some personal
preferences.
A long winded post. But ... ;/
Owl ducks fer cover.
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Richard Owlett
2018-11-15 16:33:46 UTC
Permalink
Post by Nat Taylor
The Dual Boot Gemini is in production, and is available in wifi-only.
https://store.planetcom.co.uk/collections/gemini-pda/products/gemini-pda-wifi-only?variant=6314880499739
Was referring to it when I said "I'm tracking it." I received a response
from them on one point of concern. It may have Noodle Pi as competitor.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Richard,
I viewed one of the links I provided in the "old devices" thread, related
to this one. It seems based on what I just read that the *Noodle Pi* may
be very close to your list of requirements.
I also sent another link, which I have not viewed, comparing 5 different
handheld devices http://youtu.be/dXNllO79_68
You hadn't commented on the info provided, so I wanted to add it to this
thread.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Russell Senior
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
ROFL? Don't know if I should laugh, cry, groan, or inspire a SNL skit ;}
Been "living with 'it' " for ~half a century :}
Who? Me? Strange world view? <snicker>
More seriously, compared to other fora this one has a better track
record of answering the questions actually asked rather than the
question that some wished I had asked.
You have to see the humor of this thread.
1. I state I'm interested in current production.
It is suggested I buy decade old units on ebay.
Some came closer by mentioning things that barely made it out of
a crowd funding phase before ceasing production.
2. I specify *"physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot"* and
having USB connectivity.
I can't have that as USB did not exist in Palm Pilot era.
3. I specify a "Linux device" and " *NOT* be shipped with Android OS".
I'm told that is unreasonable as ~"everybody uses Android".
[One person did point to a device shipped with Linux dual booted. It
meets my underlying requirement on not having to deal with Android.
It is unclear if it has yet entered production &/or ships with my
preferred mix of options. I'm tracking it.]
I've had requests for justification of some of my specifications.
1. due to >70 years of wear-n-tear my doctor would like data.
2. pen and paper is non-viable.
3. I'm on an exercise program which would benefit from records.
4. walking with a pair of forearm crutches which introduces
portability issues.
I specify Linux for choice of installing only relevant software
and is easily customized - in my case by Tcl/Tk scripts.
Android is not acceptable due to personal experience. A few years ago
1. with sim card and a cell phone carrier.
2. with no sim card installed making cell connectivity optional.
3. *without* possibility of installing a sim card.
1. primary source of _free software_ was Google who required an
unacceptable amount of personal info for "free" software.
2. it placed unreasonable barriers to installing a preferred OS.
1. nominal size 6" x 4" x 1" would be good - thinner better.
2. as an example of minimal capabilities.
Cell connectivity serves no useful purpose and gives manufacturers
unreasonable justifications for restrictions on user modifications
to their personal property. Current discussion of E911 connectivity
requirements without a sim card points out possible undesirable
unintended side effects of unintentional 911 calls.
unreasonable range.
Specifying availability from U.S. retail vendor handles some personal
preferences.
A long winded post. But ... ;/
Owl ducks fer cover.
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Nat Taylor
2018-11-15 18:56:40 UTC
Permalink
I may have to check out the Noodle pi too!
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Nat Taylor
The Dual Boot Gemini is in production, and is available in wifi-only.
https://store.planetcom.co.uk/collections/gemini-pda/products/gemini-pda-wifi-only?variant=6314880499739
Was referring to it when I said "I'm tracking it." I received a response
from them on one point of concern. It may have Noodle Pi as competitor.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Richard,
I viewed one of the links I provided in the "old devices" thread,
related
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
to this one. It seems based on what I just read that the *Noodle Pi*
may
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
be very close to your list of requirements.
I also sent another link, which I have not viewed, comparing 5 different
handheld devices http://youtu.be/dXNllO79_68
You hadn't commented on the info provided, so I wanted to add it to this
thread.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Russell Senior
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
ROFL? Don't know if I should laugh, cry, groan, or inspire a SNL skit
;}
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
Been "living with 'it' " for ~half a century :}
Who? Me? Strange world view? <snicker>
More seriously, compared to other fora this one has a better track
record of answering the questions actually asked rather than the
question that some wished I had asked.
You have to see the humor of this thread.
1. I state I'm interested in current production.
It is suggested I buy decade old units on ebay.
Some came closer by mentioning things that barely made it out of
a crowd funding phase before ceasing production.
2. I specify *"physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot"* and
having USB connectivity.
I can't have that as USB did not exist in Palm Pilot era.
3. I specify a "Linux device" and " *NOT* be shipped with Android OS".
I'm told that is unreasonable as ~"everybody uses Android".
[One person did point to a device shipped with Linux dual booted.
It
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
meets my underlying requirement on not having to deal with
Android.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
It is unclear if it has yet entered production &/or ships with my
preferred mix of options. I'm tracking it.]
I've had requests for justification of some of my specifications.
1. due to >70 years of wear-n-tear my doctor would like data.
2. pen and paper is non-viable.
3. I'm on an exercise program which would benefit from records.
4. walking with a pair of forearm crutches which introduces
portability issues.
I specify Linux for choice of installing only relevant software
and is easily customized - in my case by Tcl/Tk scripts.
Android is not acceptable due to personal experience. A few years ago
1. with sim card and a cell phone carrier.
2. with no sim card installed making cell connectivity optional.
3. *without* possibility of installing a sim card.
1. primary source of _free software_ was Google who required an
unacceptable amount of personal info for "free" software.
2. it placed unreasonable barriers to installing a preferred OS.
1. nominal size 6" x 4" x 1" would be good - thinner better.
2. as an example of minimal capabilities.
Cell connectivity serves no useful purpose and gives manufacturers
unreasonable justifications for restrictions on user modifications
to their personal property. Current discussion of E911 connectivity
requirements without a sim card points out possible undesirable
unintended side effects of unintentional 911 calls.
unreasonable range.
Specifying availability from U.S. retail vendor handles some personal
preferences.
A long winded post. But ... ;/
Owl ducks fer cover.
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Larry Brigman
2018-11-15 19:11:32 UTC
Permalink
The Display for the Noodle Pi has been discontinued without a compatible
replacement for the project.
Post by Nat Taylor
I may have to check out the Noodle pi too!
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Nat Taylor
The Dual Boot Gemini is in production, and is available in wifi-only.
https://store.planetcom.co.uk/collections/gemini-pda/products/gemini-pda-wifi-only?variant=6314880499739
Post by Richard Owlett
Was referring to it when I said "I'm tracking it." I received a response
from them on one point of concern. It may have Noodle Pi as competitor.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Richard,
I viewed one of the links I provided in the "old devices" thread,
related
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
to this one. It seems based on what I just read that the *Noodle Pi*
may
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
be very close to your list of requirements.
I also sent another link, which I have not viewed, comparing 5
different
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
handheld devices http://youtu.be/dXNllO79_68
You hadn't commented on the info provided, so I wanted to add it to
this
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
thread.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Russell Senior
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
ROFL? Don't know if I should laugh, cry, groan, or inspire a SNL skit
;}
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
Been "living with 'it' " for ~half a century :}
Who? Me? Strange world view? <snicker>
More seriously, compared to other fora this one has a better track
record of answering the questions actually asked rather than the
question that some wished I had asked.
You have to see the humor of this thread.
1. I state I'm interested in current production.
It is suggested I buy decade old units on ebay.
Some came closer by mentioning things that barely made it out of
a crowd funding phase before ceasing production.
2. I specify *"physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot"* and
having USB connectivity.
I can't have that as USB did not exist in Palm Pilot era.
3. I specify a "Linux device" and " *NOT* be shipped with Android
OS".
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
I'm told that is unreasonable as ~"everybody uses Android".
[One person did point to a device shipped with Linux dual
booted.
Post by Richard Owlett
It
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
meets my underlying requirement on not having to deal with
Android.
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
It is unclear if it has yet entered production &/or ships with
my
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Nat Taylor
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
preferred mix of options. I'm tracking it.]
I've had requests for justification of some of my specifications.
1. due to >70 years of wear-n-tear my doctor would like data.
2. pen and paper is non-viable.
3. I'm on an exercise program which would benefit from records.
4. walking with a pair of forearm crutches which introduces
portability issues.
I specify Linux for choice of installing only relevant software
and is easily customized - in my case by Tcl/Tk scripts.
Android is not acceptable due to personal experience. A few years ago
1. with sim card and a cell phone carrier.
2. with no sim card installed making cell connectivity optional.
3. *without* possibility of installing a sim card.
1. primary source of _free software_ was Google who required an
unacceptable amount of personal info for "free" software.
2. it placed unreasonable barriers to installing a preferred OS.
1. nominal size 6" x 4" x 1" would be good - thinner better.
2. as an example of minimal capabilities.
Cell connectivity serves no useful purpose and gives manufacturers
unreasonable justifications for restrictions on user modifications
to their personal property. Current discussion of E911 connectivity
requirements without a sim card points out possible undesirable
unintended side effects of unintentional 911 calls.
unreasonable range.
Specifying availability from U.S. retail vendor handles some personal
preferences.
A long winded post. But ... ;/
Owl ducks fer cover.
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
_______________________________________________
PLUG mailing list
http://lists.pdxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug
Richard Owlett
2018-11-15 16:17:30 UTC
Permalink
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Richard,
I viewed one of the links I provided in the "old devices" thread, related
to this one. It seems based on what I just read that the *Noodle Pi* may
be very close to your list of requirements.
Mea Culpa.
I investigated Raspberry Pi about a year ago. If I had wanted to do an
engineering prototype it was computationally suitable. But too much
assembly was required and a useful case required access to a 3-D printer.

I thought the Noodle Pi was one of those projects "available real soon"
having the problems listed above. Your post prompted a search yielding
[https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hash42/noodle-pi-the-complete-raspberry-pi-pocket-compute].
*NICE*!!! He may be prophet &/or mind-reader ;} The designer obviously
has more real world real world experience than demonstrated by most of
the crowd funded projects I looked at.

I haven't followed enough links to find if the assembled version has off
the shelf retail availability. If not, it is likely worth waiting for.

Thank you for persistence.
Post by Johnathan Mantey
I also sent another link, which I have not viewed, comparing 5 different
handheld devices http://youtu.be/dXNllO79_68
I have a low data cap so I routinely don't follow youtube links.
Post by Johnathan Mantey
You hadn't commented on the info provided, so I wanted to add it to this
thread.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Russell Senior
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
ROFL? Don't know if I should laugh, cry, groan, or inspire a SNL skit ;}
Been "living with 'it' " for ~half a century :}
Who? Me? Strange world view? <snicker>
More seriously, compared to other fora this one has a better track
record of answering the questions actually asked rather than the
question that some wished I had asked.
You have to see the humor of this thread.
1. I state I'm interested in current production.
It is suggested I buy decade old units on ebay.
Some came closer by mentioning things that barely made it out of
a crowd funding phase before ceasing production.
2. I specify *"physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot"* and
having USB connectivity.
I can't have that as USB did not exist in Palm Pilot era.
3. I specify a "Linux device" and " *NOT* be shipped with Android OS".
I'm told that is unreasonable as ~"everybody uses Android".
[One person did point to a device shipped with Linux dual booted. It
meets my underlying requirement on not having to deal with Android.
It is unclear if it has yet entered production &/or ships with my
preferred mix of options. I'm tracking it.]
I've had requests for justification of some of my specifications.
1. due to >70 years of wear-n-tear my doctor would like data.
2. pen and paper is non-viable.
3. I'm on an exercise program which would benefit from records.
4. walking with a pair of forearm crutches which introduces
portability issues.
I specify Linux for choice of installing only relevant software
and is easily customized - in my case by Tcl/Tk scripts.
Android is not acceptable due to personal experience. A few years ago
1. with sim card and a cell phone carrier.
2. with no sim card installed making cell connectivity optional.
3. *without* possibility of installing a sim card.
1. primary source of _free software_ was Google who required an
unacceptable amount of personal info for "free" software.
2. it placed unreasonable barriers to installing a preferred OS.
1. nominal size 6" x 4" x 1" would be good - thinner better.
2. as an example of minimal capabilities.
Cell connectivity serves no useful purpose and gives manufacturers
unreasonable justifications for restrictions on user modifications
to their personal property. Current discussion of E911 connectivity
requirements without a sim card points out possible undesirable
unintended side effects of unintentional 911 calls.
unreasonable range.
Specifying availability from U.S. retail vendor handles some personal
preferences.
A long winded post. But ... ;/
Owl ducks fer cover.
Johnathan Mantey
2018-11-15 16:24:47 UTC
Permalink
Richard,
I watched the 5 devices compared. The only one that meets your
requirements is the Noodle Pi. It is available fully assembled, and is, I
believe, current production. The other 4 devices are either

1. ancient (2 of them)
2. a cell phone (unacceptable)
3. out of production
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Richard,
I viewed one of the links I provided in the "old devices" thread, related
to this one. It seems based on what I just read that the *Noodle Pi* may
be very close to your list of requirements.
Mea Culpa.
I investigated Raspberry Pi about a year ago. If I had wanted to do an
engineering prototype it was computationally suitable. But too much
assembly was required and a useful case required access to a 3-D printer.
I thought the Noodle Pi was one of those projects "available real soon"
having the problems listed above. Your post prompted a search yielding
[
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hash42/noodle-pi-the-complete-raspberry-pi-pocket-compute].
*NICE*!!! He may be prophet &/or mind-reader ;} The designer obviously
has more real world real world experience than demonstrated by most of
the crowd funded projects I looked at.
I haven't followed enough links to find if the assembled version has off
the shelf retail availability. If not, it is likely worth waiting for.
Thank you for persistence.
Post by Johnathan Mantey
I also sent another link, which I have not viewed, comparing 5 different
handheld devices http://youtu.be/dXNllO79_68
I have a low data cap so I routinely don't follow youtube links.
Post by Johnathan Mantey
You hadn't commented on the info provided, so I wanted to add it to this
thread.
Post by Richard Owlett
Post by Russell Senior
Post by Richard Owlett
I know I have *WEIRD* preferences.
How should I pose questions in a manner that they would be taken
_ *EXTREMELY LITERALLY* _?
You should pose it knowing that you may get answers that don't fit
perfectly. You are responsible for wading through the responses and
extracting the value you can. They may be the best answers available
from the people you are asking. Learn to live with that.
ROFL? Don't know if I should laugh, cry, groan, or inspire a SNL skit ;}
Been "living with 'it' " for ~half a century :}
Who? Me? Strange world view? <snicker>
More seriously, compared to other fora this one has a better track
record of answering the questions actually asked rather than the
question that some wished I had asked.
You have to see the humor of this thread.
1. I state I'm interested in current production.
It is suggested I buy decade old units on ebay.
Some came closer by mentioning things that barely made it out of
a crowd funding phase before ceasing production.
2. I specify *"physical form factor similar to a Palm Pilot"* and
having USB connectivity.
I can't have that as USB did not exist in Palm Pilot era.
3. I specify a "Linux device" and " *NOT* be shipped with Android OS".
I'm told that is unreasonable as ~"everybody uses Android".
[One person did point to a device shipped with Linux dual booted.
It
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
meets my underlying requirement on not having to deal with
Android.
Post by Johnathan Mantey
Post by Richard Owlett
It is unclear if it has yet entered production &/or ships with my
preferred mix of options. I'm tracking it.]
I've had requests for justification of some of my specifications.
1. due to >70 years of wear-n-tear my doctor would like data.
2. pen and paper is non-viable.
3. I'm on an exercise program which would benefit from records.
4. walking with a pair of forearm crutches which introduces
portability issues.
I specify Linux for choice of installing only relevant software
and is easily customized - in my case by Tcl/Tk scripts.
Android is not acceptable due to personal experience. A few years ago
1. with sim card and a cell phone carrier.
2. with no sim card installed making cell connectivity optional.
3. *without* possibility of installing a sim card.
1. primary source of _free software_ was Google who required an
unacceptable amount of personal info for "free" software.
2. it placed unreasonable barriers to installing a preferred OS.
1. nominal size 6" x 4" x 1" would be good - thinner better.
2. as an example of minimal capabilities.
Cell connectivity serves no useful purpose and gives manufacturers
unreasonable justifications for restrictions on user modifications
to their personal property. Current discussion of E911 connectivity
requirements without a sim card points out possible undesirable
unintended side effects of unintentional 911 calls.
unreasonable range.
Specifying availability from U.S. retail vendor handles some personal
preferences.
A long winded post. But ... ;/
Owl ducks fer cover.
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