The Android PC System -APC 8750

Priced between the Beagle Board and the Raspberry Pi, the new kid on the block is Via Technologies APC 8750. It runs on a preinstalled custom Android Operating System and includes a basic selection of applications. The APC has a full set of consumer I/O ports, enabling APC to connect to your PC monitor or TV.

The PC is one of the most useful modern tool available to us. The way technology is evolving means that many common computing tasks such as data crunching, data storage and communications are shifting to the Internet. As a result, this means that many of these tasks no longer need overpowered CPU's or expensive software to run, and this is where low cost single board mini computers like the APC come in.

Like many of the single board computer offerings, the APC's price point also means that the Internet is opened up to the wider population, especially those in the developing world. The beauty of the APC is that in runs straight out of the box, as it comes pre-loaded with the Android based operating system. Being Android based also means that you can run Android apps, as well as play movies and music just as you would on a tablet-style device. In addition to the HDMI connector, the on-board VGA port also allows you to plug it into an older style monitor.

So is there a space for yet another Low cost single board Computer? Personally, I love my Raspberry Pi, but I think the APC also has its place. The fact that it will run Android Apps and games means that I will have both velcroed to the back of my TV! Here's a video with Richard Brown telling us in more detail how versatile this little computer really is.

Basic Specification

Model APC 8750

Software Android 2.3 (PC System)

Processor VIA 800MHz

Memory DDR3 512MB Memory
2GB NAND Flash

Graphics Built-in 2D/3D Graphic
Resolution up to 720p

Input and Output HDMI
VGA
USB 2.0 (x4)
Audio out / Mic in
microSD Slot

Network 10/100 Ethernet

Size 170 x 85mm (W x H) Neo-ITX Standard*

* Neo-ITX is form-factor compatible with Mini-ITX and MicroATX


So, what do you think about this board? Will you be buying one of these when they go on sale in the Autumn? I'd love to hear your thoughts.