https://balthazar.space/w/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Harv&feedformat=atomBalthazar - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T09:20:26ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.33.0https://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=264Features2019-11-06T19:25:55Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
[[Image:Balthazarset1.png]]<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run '''[https://nixos.org/ NixOS]''', '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[http://guix.gnu.org/ Guix]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements and novelties in approach to a physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a segmented touch-pad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br> <br />
When the display lid is closed it engages the magnetic switch based on the "Timer Manager Module" and cuts off the power to all of I/O modules preventing any remote "switch-on" possibility even before it suspends to RAM.<br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key. It is based on '''Cherry MX''' low profile gaming switches<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is inspired by and extracted from '''[https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/think/ IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad]''' series, '''[https://na.panasonic.com/us/computers-tablets-handhelds/computers/ Panasonic ToughBook]''',a '''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Laptop_per_Child OLPC]''' and main secure USB-dongle features based on '''[https://www.nitrokey.com/ Nitrokey]''' concept. <br />
<br />
Balthazar's design aims for a totally new usability experience.<br><br />
<br />
''"10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them."'' (Arjen Kamphuis in xTED speech in Delft)<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards '''FOSS''' compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' IoT and AI platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' and a '''Clear Linux''' (minus Intel optimisation) concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' firmware/BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification defaults to scalable/modular voltage for the processor and memory by the design aims at preventing the so-called ''side-channel'' attacks. '''ISA''' already specifies that no data is kept in the cache, but remote possibility of such attack still exists.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with an illuminated track-point ball, firmware includes default onboard SSH compression (ssh -C) enabled communication between keyboard's motherboard and the rest of I/O hardware - prevents key-logging and keystroke timing and guessing algorithms.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour polycarbonate, aluminium composite and recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in. Basically - no physical USB on board.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=263Features2019-11-06T19:01:45Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
[[Image:Balthazarset1.png]]<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run '''[https://nixos.org/ NixOS]''', '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[http://guix.gnu.org/ Guix]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements and novelties in approach to a physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a segmented touch-pad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br> <br />
When the display lid is closed it engages the magnetic switch based on the "Timer Manager Module" and cuts off the power to all of I/O modules preventing any remote "switch-on" possibility even before it suspends to RAM.<br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key. It is based on '''Cherry MX''' low profile gaming switches<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is inspired by and extracted from '''[https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/think/ IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad]''' series, '''[https://na.panasonic.com/us/computers-tablets-handhelds/computers/ Panasonic ToughBook]''',a '''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Laptop_per_Child OLPC]''' and main secure USB-dongle features based on '''[https://www.nitrokey.com/ Nitrokey]''' concept. <br />
<br />
Balthazar's design aims for a totally new usability experience.<br><br />
<br />
''"10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them."'' (Arjen Kamphuis in xTED speech in Delft)<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards '''FOSS''' compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' IoT and AI platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' and a '''Clear Linux''' (minus Intel optimisation) concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' firmware/BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification defaults to scalable/modular voltage for the processor and memory by the design aims at preventing the so-called ''side-channel'' attacks. '''ISA''' already specifies that no data is kept in the cache, but remote possibility of such attack still exists.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with an illuminated track-point ball, firmware includes default onboard SSH compression (ssh -C) enabled communication between keyboard's motherboard and the rest of I/O hardware - prevents key-logging and keystroke timing and guessing algorithms.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in. Basically - no physical USB on board.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=244Balthazar2019-10-26T06:00:50Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software and firmware features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default low-level security layer software based on [https://gitlab.com/cryptsetup/cryptsetup/blob/master/README.md '''LUKS''' ], [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] and is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also follows '''OSHW''', '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
=== Goals ===<br />
<br />
A mission of '''Balthazar''' is to enable and educate end users to be private, safe and careful with their own data, school's or a company's data. <br />
In today’s internet age we need to know how to handle and use encryption for our data protection, privacy and overall security.<br />
Also additional physical safety features such as hardwired switches and a quickly removable hard drive and peripherals are a necessity.<br />
Its open architecture runs fully open source software stack, a derivative of '''Debian GNU/Linux''' free of a proprietary hardware drivers and other closed source software. This makes a large software library instantly available and provides regular security updates. It can also be used as a base for “custom OS” or even UI environment, but that should not be not be really mandatory.<br><br />
<br />
# To design open, secure, inexpensive and innovative hardware while combining it with the usage of already existing GNU/FOSS tools and applications right off-the shelf.<br />
# To lead by example and gently lead other hardware manufacturers to become fully open towards GNU/FOSS including opening drivers' documentation, as well as abandoning in the process closed hardware architectures.<br />
# To support and enable low income communities and individuals all over the planet to engage in procetcting their privacy, freedoms and rights on the internet.<br />
# To make computing more sustainable and reach eco-friendly footprint.<br />
# To make modular and granulated product that can be configured and upgraded at an affordable price. You own it - you have the right to repair and upgrade it yourself.<br />
# To create an ecosystem that promotes RISC-V and ISA based secure computing.<br />
# To position it as an educational platform, as well as an advanced computing device where its users of all ages will feel secure, safe and comfortable using it.<br />
# To improve a paradigm in a mobile computing approach, while inspiring users to help create a new generation internet as a fundamental right to stay private, safe and secure on- and off-line.<br />
<center><strong><big>'''For all children age 9-99.'''</big></strong></center><br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[FAQ|Frequently asked questions]] and the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=243Features2019-10-22T19:53:54Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run '''[https://nixos.org/ NixOS]''', '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[http://guix.gnu.org/ Guix]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements and novelties in approach to a physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a segmented touch-pad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br> <br />
When the display lid is closed it engages the magnetic switch based on the "Timer Manager Module" and cuts off the power of all I/O modules preventing any remote switch-on possibility even before it suspends to RAM.<br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key. It is based on '''Cherry MX''' low profile gaming switches<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is inspired by and extracted from '''[https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/think/ IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad]''' series, '''[https://na.panasonic.com/us/computers-tablets-handhelds/computers/ Panasonic ToughBook]''',a '''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Laptop_per_Child OLPC]''' and main secure USB-dongle features based on '''[https://www.nitrokey.com/ Nitrokey]''' concept. <br />
<br />
Balthazar's design aims for a totally new usability experience.<br><br />
<br />
''"10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them."'' (Arjen Kamphuis in xTED speech in Delft)<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards '''FOSS''' compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' IoT and AI platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' and a '''Clear Linux''' (minus Intel optimisation) concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' firmware/BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification defaults to scalable/modular voltage for the processor and memory by the design aims at preventing the so-called ''side-channel'' attacks. '''ISA''' already specifies that no data is kept in the cache, but remote possibility of such attack still exists.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with an illuminated track-point ball, firmware includes default onboard SSH compression (ssh -C) enabled communication between keyboard's motherboard and the rest of I/O hardware - prevents key-logging and keystroke timing and guessing algorithms.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in. Basically - no physical USB on board.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=238Features2019-10-07T03:04:26Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''[https://nixos.org/ NixOS]''', '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements and novelties in approach to a physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a segmented touch-pad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br> <br />
When the display lid is closed it engages the magnetic switch based on the "Timer Manager Module" and cuts off the power of all I/O modules preventing any remote switch-on possibility even before it suspends to RAM.<br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key. It is based on '''Cherry MX''' low profile gaming switches<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is inspired by and extracted from '''[https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/think/ IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad]''' series, '''[https://na.panasonic.com/us/computers-tablets-handhelds/computers/ Panasonic ToughBook]''',a '''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Laptop_per_Child OLPC]''' and main secure USB-dongle features based on '''[https://www.nitrokey.com/ Nitrokey]''' concept. <br />
<br />
Balthazar's design aims for a totally new usability experience.<br><br />
<br />
''"10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them."'' (Arjen Kamphuis in xTED speech in Delft)<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards '''FOSS''' compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' IoT and AI platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' and a '''Clear Linux''' (minus Intel optimisation) concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' firmware/BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification defaults to scalable/modular voltage for the processor and memory by the design aims at preventing the so-called ''side-channel'' attacks. '''ISA''' already specifies that no data is kept in the cache, but remote possibility of such attack still exists.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with an illuminated track-point ball, firmware includes default onboard SSH compression (ssh -C) enabled communication between keyboard's motherboard and the rest of I/O hardware - prevents key-logging and keystroke timing and guessing algorithms.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in. Basically - no physical USB on board.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=237Features2019-10-05T05:22:20Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''[https://nixos.org/ NixOS]''', '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements and novelties in approach to a physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a segmented touch-pad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br><br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key.<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is inspired by and extracted from '''[https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/think/ IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad]''' series, '''[https://na.panasonic.com/us/computers-tablets-handhelds/computers/ Panasonic ToughBook]''',a '''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Laptop_per_Child OLPC]''' and main secure USB-dongle features based on '''[https://www.nitrokey.com/ Nitrokey]''' concept. <br />
<br />
Balthazar's design aims for a totally new usability experience.<br><br />
<br />
''"10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them."'' (Arjen Kamphuis in xTED speech in Delft)<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards '''FOSS''' compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' IoT and AI platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' and a '''Clear Linux''' (minus Intel optimisation) concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' firmware/BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification defaults to scalable/modular voltage for the processor and memory by the design aims at preventing the so-called ''side-channel'' attacks. '''ISA''' already specifies that no data is kept in the cache, but remote possibility of such attack still exists.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with an illuminated track-point ball, firmware includes default onboard SSH compression (ssh -C) enabled communication between keyboard's motherboard and the rest of I/O hardware - prevents key-logging and keystroke timing and guessing algorithms.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in. Basically - no physical USB on board.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=236Features2019-10-05T04:55:41Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''[https://nixos.org/ NixOS]''', '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements and novelties in approach to a physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a segmented touch-pad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br><br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key.<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is inspired by and extracted from '''[https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/think/ IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad]''' series, '''[https://na.panasonic.com/us/computers-tablets-handhelds/computers/ Panasonic ToughBook]''',a '''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Laptop_per_Child OLPC]''' and main security USB dongle features by [https://www.nitrokey.com/ Nitrokey] concept. <br />
<br />
Balthazar's design aims for a totally new usability experience.<br><br />
<br />
''"10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them."'' (Arjen Kamphuis in xTED speech in Delft)<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' and a '''Clear Linux''' (minus Intel optimisation) concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' firmware/BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification defaults to scalable/modular voltage for the processor and memory by the design aims at preventing the so-called ''side-channel'' attacks. '''ISA''' already specifies that no data is kept in the cache, but remote possibility of such attack still exists.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with an illuminated track-point ball, firmware includes default onboard SSH compression (ssh -C) enabled communication between keyboard's motherboard and the rest of I/O hardware - prevents key-logging and keystroke timing and guessing algorithms.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in. Basically - no physical USB on board.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=235Features2019-10-04T04:23:22Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' '''[https://nixos.org/ NixOS]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements and novelties in approach to a physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a touchpad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br><br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key.<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is inspired by and derived from '''[https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/think/ IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad]''' series, '''[https://na.panasonic.com/us/computers-tablets-handhelds/computers/ Panasonic ToughBook]''',a '''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Laptop_per_Child OLPC]''' and main security USB features by [https://www.nitrokey.com/ Nitrokey] concept. <br />
<br />
Balthazar's design aims for a totally new usability experience.<br><br />
<br />
''"10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them."'' (Arjen Kamphuis in xTED speech in Delft)<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' and a '''Clear Linux''' (minus Intel optimisation) concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' firmware/BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification defaults to scalable/modular voltage for the processor and memory by the design aims at preventing the so-called ''side-channel'' attacks. '''ISA''' already specifies that no data is kept in the cache, but remote possibility of such attack still exists.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with an illuminated track-point ball, firmware includes default onboard SSH compression (ssh -C) enabled communication between keyboard's motherboard and the rest of I/O hardware - prevents key-logging and keystroke timing and guessing algorithms.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in. Basically - no physical USB on board.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=234Features2019-10-04T04:21:50Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' '''[https://nixos.org/ NixOS]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements and novelties in approach to a physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a touchpad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br><br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key.<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is inspired by and derived from '''[https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/think/ IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad]''' series, '''[https://na.panasonic.com/us/computers-tablets-handhelds/computers/ Panasonic ToughBook]''',a '''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Laptop_per_Child OLPC]''' and main security USB features by [https://www.nitrokey.com/ Nitrokey] concept. <br />
<br />
Balthazar's design aims for a totally new usability experience.<br><br />
<br />
"10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them." (Arjen Kamphuis in xTED speech in Delft)<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' and a '''Clear Linux''' (minus Intel optimisation) concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' firmware/BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification defaults to scalable/modular voltage for the processor and memory by the design aims at preventing the so-called ''side-channel'' attacks. '''ISA''' already specifies that no data is kept in the cache, but remote possibility of such attack still exists.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with an illuminated track-point ball, firmware includes default onboard SSH compression (ssh -C) enabled communication between keyboard's motherboard and the rest of I/O hardware - prevents key-logging and keystroke timing and guessing algorithms.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in. Basically - no physical USB on board.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Frequently_Asked_Questions&diff=219Frequently Asked Questions2019-09-19T18:15:58Z<p>Harv: /* I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than? */</p>
<hr />
<div>=== Why yet another laptop? ===<br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
===But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike.===<br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behavior.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
===I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?===<br />
<br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
=== What do you really want? ===<br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet with powerful, open and secure computing experience, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behavior and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
=== But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype. ===<br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
=== So, why me or my children should want one? ===<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where affordable '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®'''-specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors.</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Frequently_Asked_Questions&diff=218Frequently Asked Questions2019-09-19T18:14:16Z<p>Harv: /* = */</p>
<hr />
<div>=== Why yet another laptop? ===<br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
===But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike.===<br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behavior.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
===I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?===<br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== What do you really want? ===<br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet with powerful, open and secure computing experience, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behavior and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
=== But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype. ===<br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
=== So, why me or my children should want one? ===<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where affordable '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®'''-specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors.</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Frequently_Asked_Questions&diff=217Frequently Asked Questions2019-09-19T18:13:28Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>=== Why yet another laptop? ===<br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
=== <br />
But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike. ===<br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behavior.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
===I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?===<br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== What do you really want? ===<br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet with powerful, open and secure computing experience, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behavior and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
=== But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype. ===<br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
=== So, why me or my children should want one? ===<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where affordable '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®'''-specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors.</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Frequently_Asked_Questions&diff=216Frequently Asked Questions2019-09-19T18:07:49Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>=== Why yet another laptop? ===<br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
===I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?===<br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet with powerful, open and secure computing experience, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors.</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=215Balthazar2019-09-19T17:55:18Z<p>Harv: /* Goals */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software and firmware features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default low-level security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
=== Goals ===<br />
<br />
A mission of '''Balthazar''' is to enable and educate end users to be private, safe and careful with their own data, school's or a company's data. <br />
In today’s internet age we need to know how to handle and use encryption for our data protection, privacy and overall security.<br />
Also additional physical safety features such as hardwired switches and a quickly removable hard drive and peripherals are a necessity.<br />
Its open architecture runs fully open source software stack, a derivative of '''Debian GNU/Linux''' free of a proprietary hardware drivers and other closed source software. This makes a large software library instantly available and provides regular security updates. It can also be used as a base for “custom OS” or even UI environment, but that should not be not be really mandatory.<br><br />
<br />
# To design open, secure, inexpensive and innovative hardware while combining it with the usage of already existing GNU/FOSS tools and applications right off-the shelf.<br />
# To lead by example and gently lead other hardware manufacturers to become fully open towards GNU/FOSS including opening drivers' documentation, as well as abandoning in the process closed hardware architectures.<br />
# To support and enable low income communities and individuals all over the planet to engage in procetcting their privacy, freedoms and rights on the internet.<br />
# To make computing more sustainable and reach eco-friendly footprint.<br />
# To make modular and granulated product that can be configured and upgraded at an affordable price. You own it - you have the right to repair and upgrade it yourself.<br />
# To create an ecosystem that promotes RISC-V and ISA based secure computing.<br />
# To position it as an educational platform, as well as an advanced computing device where its users of all ages will feel secure, safe and comfortable using it.<br />
# To improve a paradigm in a mobile computing approach, while inspiring users to help create a new generation internet as a fundamental right to stay private, safe and secure on- and off-line.<br />
<center><strong><big>'''For all children age 9-99.'''</big></strong></center><br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[FAQ]] and the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=214Features2019-09-19T05:31:19Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements in approach to physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a touchpad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA.<br><br />
<br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key.<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is derived from '''IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad''' series, '''Panasonic ToughBook''' and a '''OLPC''', but improved in many important details and tailored for totally new usability experience. <br />
10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=213Features2019-09-19T04:59:12Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''[https://trisquel.info Trisquel GNU]''', '''[https://www.debian.org Debian]''' and '''[https://www.ubuntu.com Ubuntu]''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
In a form-factor there are some improvements in approach to physical user interface and experience.<br />
Main characteristics of '''Balthazar''' are 4 robust hardware switches for WiFi, camera, microphones and speakers, SoM CPU/GPU swappable card, a removable camera module with 2 microphones array, a keyboard layout with a touchpad positioned '''above''' the keyboard with pull-out speakers. Motherboard(s) components are behind the screen and below keyboard are batteries - one small non removable and one really big that is hot-swappable - SSD bay is also below keyboard, as well as other peripheral connectors - GPIO, USB OTG-secure, HDMI, headphones and mic inputs, volume knob and finally eSATA. <br />
Keyboard is '''QUERTY''' with 7 '''LED'''s illuminated and clickable 8 mm trackball positioned between G and H keys and above B key.<br><br />
<br />
So when we say the "design is different", it actually is derived from '''IBM/Lenovo ThinkPad''' series, '''Panasonic ToughBook''' and a '''OLPC''', but improved in many important details and tailored for totally new usability experience. <br />
10 or so years ago there were no mobile phones, but we all learned how to use them.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangeable and upgradeble.<br><br />
<br />
'''[https://riscv.org/ RISC-V]''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We also keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path, waiting for their development to align with our expectations which are open documentation that will enable Open Source community to write drivers and other software.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there. In any case, count on 8+ Gb RAM and some serious processing power. <br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000+ mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular power''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few interesting extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Weaved and braided cable shielding above MIL-SPEC/DTL and GOST/IST standards.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty) and a VGA connector.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar:Website_Tasks&diff=212Balthazar:Website Tasks2019-09-17T07:10:30Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>* WE NEED MAIL ADDRESSES. info,hw, sw -> @balthazar.space, -> ziga@balthazar.space, harv@balthazar.space, gizmo@balthazar.space<br />
* Menu bar<br />
* Remove unnecessary stuff from side menu ✔️<br />
* Mobile CSS ✔️<br />
* Color schema - distribute colors according to the 60-30-10 rule<br />
* Footer - missing stuff: transparency, financial report, who?, join us etc. in no particular order<br />
* URL rewriting ✔️<br />
* Move search bar or incorporate it in the menu bar ✔️<br />
* enable media gallery - tweak display and image viewing 3D and such<br />
* remove unused pages, images - clean means lean<br />
* logo, logo,logo - how "The Queen" succeeded? Freddie made a logo. And he sang real well. A Black Hat is a no go area, while funny it is understood within the community as a negative. More options please ...and BH must go sooner the better, as more people check the page day in day out. Heraldic is better than BH, but I like orange and black and green and dark neon blue :)<br />
* let us concentrate to security and a privacy and old/new stuff - such as GNU.net and other initiatives.<br />
* links - cool stuff <br />
* partners? ecosystem? <br />
* ETQ excellence through quality - <br />
<br />
LEGO claims: "Only the best is good enough."<br><br />
Crusty the Clown claims: "It is not just good. It is good enough."<br><br />
<br />
<br />
S.Jobs: '''Let’s go invent tomorrow rather than worrying about what happened yesterday.'''</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=211Balthazar2019-09-17T05:27:23Z<p>Harv: /* Goals */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software and firmware features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default low-level security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
=== Goals ===<br />
<br />
# To enable and educate end user to be careful and aware with their own personal data, school or a company data. <br />
In today’s internet age we need to know how to handle and use encryption for our data protection, privacy and overall security.<br />
Also additional physical safety features such as hardwired switches and a quickly removable hard drive and peripherals are a necessity.<br />
# To run fully open source software stack, a derivative of Debian GNU/Linux free of a proprietary hardware drivers and other closed source software. This makes a large software library instantly available and provides regular security updates. <br />
It can also be used as a base for “custom OS” or even UI environment, but that should not be not be really mandatory.<br />
# To design open, secure, inexpensive and innovative hardware while combining it with the usage of already existing GNU/FOSS tools and applications right off-the shelf.<br />
# To lead by example for other hardware manufacturers to become fully open towards GNU/FOSS including opening drivers' documentation.<br />
# To support and enable low income communities and individuals all over the planet to engage in proctecting their privacy, freedoms and rights on internet.<br />
# To make computing more sustainable and reach eco friendly footprint.<br />
# To make modular and granulated product that can be configured and upgraded at an affordable price.<br />
# To create an ecosystem that can promote RISC-V and ISA based computing.<br />
# To position it as an educational product, as well as an advanced computing device where its users will feel safe and sound using it.<br />
<br />
<center><strong><big>'''For all children age 9-99.'''</big></strong></center><br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[FAQ]] and the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=188Balthazar2019-09-11T18:26:39Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software and firmware features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default low-level security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet with powerful, open and secure computing experience, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
'''TL;DR''' <strong><big>'''For all children age 9-99.'''</big></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=187Balthazar2019-09-11T18:10:22Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet with powerful, open and secure computing experience, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
'''TL;DR''' <strong><big>'''For the children age 9-99.'''</big></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=186Balthazar2019-09-10T11:47:21Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
'''TL;DR''' <strong><big>'''For the children age 9-99.'''</big></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=185Balthazar2019-09-10T11:45:35Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TL;DR''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=184Features2019-09-09T07:43:41Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble.<br><br />
'''RISC-V''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path waiting for their development to align with our expectations.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - a ceramic volume potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - a smooth surface, flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw.<br><br />
It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs here and there.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty).<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=183Features2019-09-09T03:59:34Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble.<br><br />
'''RISC-V''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7x''' iterations along the path waiting for their development to align with our expectations.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty).<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=182Features2019-09-09T03:58:53Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble.<br><br />
'''RISC-V''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7X''' iterations along the path waiting for their development to align with our expectations.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors,<br><br />
<br />
'''a male D-Sub serial port''' (tty).<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=181Features2019-09-09T03:36:44Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble.<br><br />
'''RISC-V''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community.<br><br />
We keep an eye on '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7X''' iterations along the path waiting for their development to align with our expectations.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=180Features2019-09-09T03:34:10Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble.<br><br />
'''RISC-V''' architecture is understood as an ideal vehicle for the security community. <br />
We also follow '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7X''' variants along the path if their development aligns with our expectations.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=179Features2019-09-09T03:31:32Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble. We understand '''RISC-V''' as an ideal vehicle for the security community. <br />
We also follow '''ARM Cortex''' - '''A7X''' variants along the path if their development aligns with our expectations.<br><br />
With a maximum reasonable amount of '''RAM''', we use the most rational clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance versus battery's power consumption. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-4xx''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty.<br><br />
In any case we look and listen into '''NVIDIA''' and '''CUDA''' options, accelerating totally open documentation from '''NVIDIA''''s side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Storage''' - a '''SATA''' SSD is on board and it should be taken out very fast from a bay.<br><br />
'''eSATA''' connector might help in expanding the storage possibilities.<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - Secure-boot as well as a fast boot time. Nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be able to be switched on and off fast, so using some '''Libreboot/Coreboot''' concepts applied in a '''BPCD''' BIOS should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=178Balthazar2019-09-08T20:31:09Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, WebDev, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown there.<br><br />
This Workbench is meant to be based on a new [https://wiki.ljudmila.org/WebShell WebShell] environment still under the development.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=177Balthazar2019-09-08T20:26:23Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''[[Aperture Operating Environment|AOE]]''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text, Web Developer, Paint and SVG editors amongst the other examples shown. This Workbench is meant to be based on a WebOS<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=176Balthazar2019-09-08T20:07:31Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''AOE''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated <small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]''' that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text Editor, Developer, Paint and SVG editor amongst the other examples shown. <br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of a '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=175Balthazar2019-09-08T20:04:01Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''AOE''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser<br><br />
incorporated '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]'''<small><br> (a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text Editor, Developer, Paint and SVG editor amongst the other examples there.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=174Balthazar2019-09-08T20:02:41Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''AOE''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use, now just as an example, it will feature a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser incorporated '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]'''<small><br><br />
(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> that will have a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text Editor, Developer, Paint and SVG editor amongst the other examples there.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=173Balthazar2019-09-08T19:58:21Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''AOE''' for children and schools mode windowing environment and its [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']].<br><br />
For more advanced use it features a fully functional, secure, on-line and off-line, in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or a [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] browser incorporated '''[http://desktop.ljudmila.net/ Workbench]'''<small>(a '''WARNING''' - '''not''' a '''secure''' page)</small> that has a range of fully customizable productivity apps, such as Text Editor, Developer a Paint and SVG GFX creation amongst others.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=172Balthazar2019-09-08T19:42:19Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''AOE''' for children and schools mode oriented [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']] and features fully functional secure on-line and off-line in a [https://webkit.org/project/ '''Webkit'''] or [https://www.chromium.org/blink '''Blink'''] based browser, a '''Workbench''' that has fully customizable productivity apps.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=171Balthazar2019-09-08T19:31:26Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''AOE''' for children and schools mode oriented [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']] and features secure online in-the-browser '''Workbench''' that has fully customizable productivity apps.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why me or my children should want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar:Website_Tasks&diff=170Balthazar:Website Tasks2019-09-08T19:18:43Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>* Menu bar<br />
* Remove unnecessary stuff from side menu ✔️<br />
* Mobile CSS ✔️<br />
* Color schema - distribute colors according to the 60-30-10 rule<br />
* Footer - missing stuff: transparency, financial report, who?, join us etc. in no particular order<br />
* URL rewriting ✔️<br />
* Move search bar or incorporate it in the menu bar ✔️<br />
* enable media gallery - tweak display and image viewing 3D and such<br />
* remove unused pages, images - clean means lean<br />
* logo, logo,logo - how "The Queen" succeeded? Freddie made a logo. And he sang real well. A Black Hat is a no go area, while funny it is understood within the community as a negative. More options please ...and BH must go sooner the better, as more people check the page day in day out. Heraldic is better than BH, but I like orange and black and green and dark neon blue :)<br />
* let us concentrate to security and a privacy and old/new stuff - such as GNU.net and other initiatives.<br />
* links - cool stuff <br />
* partners? ecosystem? <br />
* ETQ excellence through quality - <br />
<br />
LEGO claims: "Only the best is good enough."<br><br />
Crusty the Clown claims: "It is not just good. It is good enough."<br><br />
<br />
<br />
S.Jobs: '''Let’s go invent tomorrow rather than worrying about what happened yesterday.'''</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=169Balthazar2019-09-08T18:09:08Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, journalists, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need secure hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and the theft of sensitive data.<br><br />
They are expected to be skilled and aware enough, so they can quickly understand UI, UX and are able to use additional AES encryption for the prevention of official and personal data protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed '''AOE''' for children and schools mode oriented [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']] and features secure online in-the-browser '''Workbench''' that has fully customizable productivity apps.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why should my child want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=168Balthazar2019-09-08T17:56:59Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and are skilled and aware enough, so they can use all the built in hardware and software features and use additional encryption for the prevention of official and personal data-theft protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed children and schools oriented [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising '''Linux''' based age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']] and features secure online in-the-browser Workbench that has fully customizable productivity apps.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A ''"Cloud"'' is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a ''“Cloud”'' is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do '''"share"''' your data with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why should my child want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where '''BPCD''' could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data.<br><br />
It is also aimed at "the makers of the things" with 19 GPIO connectors on-board enabling users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. Added to it, its value is increased with an optional add-on module with '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12 and '''Power Functions''' connectors. <br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=167Balthazar2019-09-08T17:48:26Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, robust, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and continuously developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and are skilled and aware enough, so they can use all the built in hardware and software features and use additional encryption for the prevention of official and personal data-theft protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed children and schools oriented [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising '''Linux''' based age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']] and features secure online in-the-browser Workbench that has fully customizable productivity apps.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A "Cloud" is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a “Cloud” is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do "share" your stuff with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why should my child want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where BPCD could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data, moreover on-board but retractable '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12, Power Functions and GPIO connectors module enables users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. ('''LEGO®''', '''Matrix''', '''VeX''', '''Arduino''' etc.)<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=166Balthazar2019-09-08T16:23:29Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on [https://libreswan.org/ '''Libreswan'''] is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and are skilled and aware enough, so they can use all the built in hardware and software features and use additional encryption for the prevention of official and personal data-theft protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed children and schools oriented [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising '''Linux''' based age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']] and features secure online in-the-browser Workbench that has fully customizable productivity apps.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A "Cloud" is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a “Cloud” is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do "share" your stuff with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why should my child want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where BPCD could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data, moreover on-board but retractable '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12, Power Functions and GPIO connectors module enables users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. ('''LEGO®''', '''Matrix''', '''VeX''', '''Arduino''' etc.)<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=165Features2019-09-08T16:13:21Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''/'''ARM'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble. We also follow ARM Cortex - A77 variants along the path.<br><br />
We put in maximum reasonable '''RAM''' and we use fastest clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-400''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty. In any case we look and listen into NVIDIA and CUDA options, accelerating totally open documentation from NVIDIA's side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - fast boot time, as nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be also able to be switched on/off fast, so using Libreboot/Coreboot BIOS attitude for embedded should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Glossary&diff=164Glossary2019-09-08T10:13:47Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div><br />
<br />
'''OS''' - Operating System<br><br />
<br />
'''SW''' - Software<br><br />
<br />
'''HW''' - Hardware<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU''' - Central Processing Unit. A very small pile of interconnected transistors that go off or on and process the incoming instructions requests.<br><br />
<br />
'''RAM''' - Random Access Memory. It can be written to, read from and erased too.<br><br />
Bigger it is, better it is for the '''CPU''' and '''OS'''. And user.<br><br />
<br />
'''ROM''' - Read Only Memory. It can not be written to by user or '''OS'''. Usually contains an instruction set.<br><br />
<br />
'''BIOS''' - Basic Input Output System. When device is powered on it checks its physical integrity and various settings before it boots into '''OS'''.<br><br />
It can be flushed and updated for better performance and additional '''HW''' features.<br><br />
<br />
'''PCD''' - Personal Computing Device, a laptop, but with added extras.<br><br />
<br />
'''FSL''' - A free-software license is a notice that grants the recipient of a piece of software extensive rights to modify and redistribute that software.<br><br />
<br />
'''FOSS''' - Free and Open Source Software<br><br />
<br />
'''GNU - GPL''' - GNU is Not Unix, General Public Licence<br><br />
<br />
'''EOMA''' - Embedded Open Modular Architecture<br><br />
<br />
'''RISC-V''' - '''The Free and Open RISC Instruction Set Architecture'''<br />
'''RISC-V''' is a free and open '''ISA''' enabling a new era of processor innovation through open standard collaboration.<br><br />
'''RISC-V ISA''' delivers a new level of free, extensible software and hardware freedom on architecture, paving the way for the next 50 years of computing design and innovation. That is what '''BPCD''' is all about.<br><br />
<br />
'''ISA''' - Instruction Set Architecture<br><br />
<br />
'''RISC''' - Reduced Instruction Set Computer<br><br />
<br />
'''SoC''' - System-on-Chip. One '''CPU''' to rule them all.<br><br />
<br />
'''AMBA''' - '''Advanced Microcontroller Bus Architecture''' is a freely-available, open standard for the connection and management of functional blocks in a System-on-Chip.<br><br />
<br />
'''SoM''' - System-on-Module. Systems on a module consist of one or more '''CPUs''' and '''GPUs''', but also have connectors for external peripherals and are to be easily exchangeable if put in a proper form-factor.<br><br />
Think of a card that can be plugged in or taken out.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - General Purpose Input Output<br><br />
<br />
'''CC''' - Creative Commons<br><br />
<br />
'''CC-BY-SA''' - Creative Commons Attribution–ShareAlike License<br><br />
<br />
'''ETQ''' - Excellence Through Quality<br><br />
<br />
'''OLPC''' - One Laptop Per Child</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=163Features2019-09-08T10:07:54Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble. We put in maximum possible '''RAM''' and we use fastest clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-400''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty. In any case we look and listen into NVIDIA and CUDA options, accelerating totally open documentation from NVIDIA's side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - fast boot time, as nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be also able to be switched on/off fast, so using Libreboot/Coreboot BIOS attitude for embedded should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with an onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=162Features2019-09-08T08:37:07Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble. We put in maximum possible '''RAM''' and we use fastest clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-400''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty. In any case we look and listen into NVIDIA and CUDA options, accelerating totally open documentation from NVIDIA's side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - fast boot time, as nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be also able to be switched on/off fast, so using Libreboot/Coreboot BIOS attitude for embedded should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring second '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 19 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar&diff=161Balthazar2019-09-08T07:59:46Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>== <strong>a Personal Computing Device</strong> ==<br />
=== One laptop for the new internet. ===<br />
==== Secure, fast, inexpensive, open, upgradeable and sustainable. All of that. ====<br />
<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' - '''B'''althazar '''P'''ersonal '''C'''omputing '''D'''evice is a '''13.3"''' upgradable and expandable laptop that is based on a few concepts inspired by '''[https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68/micro-desktop/updates/2-7-5-cards-under-way-nlnet-and-intel-compute-card EOMA68]''', but powered by [https://riscv.org/ RISC-V] processor(s) open architecture that runs on '''[https://www.linux.org Linux OS]'''.<br />
<br />
It contains all the hardware and developing software features preventing data-theft and any unwanted 3<small>rd</small> party intrusion into the system by the default. Its default security layer software based on Libreswan is also envisaged to be '''[http://GNUnet.org/en/about.html GNUnet]''' ready.<br />
<br />
While being versatile and robust it also strictly follows '''GNU-GPL''', '''FOSS''', '''EOMA''', '''ISA''' and even '''CC''' guidelines.<br />
<br />
<small>What is all that FOSS and CC and OS..?</small> '''→''' [[Glossary]]<br><br />
<br />
[[File:Bpcd1 sketch.png|center|Artist's conception]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Why yet another laptop?</strong><br><br />
<br />
It is very expensive to buy an “advanced” or a secure laptop and it comes with usually "customised" and mostly proprietary software that bounds a user to a manufacturer. This is where '''BPCD''' comes in at the most possible lowest retail price that should be affordable to everyone - from an individual up to a big budgeted large institution.<br />
<br />
<strong>But we have already have inexpensive netbooks, picturebooks, tablets, Chromebooks and alike!</strong><br />
<br />
'''Google''', '''Samsung''', '''Acer''', '''Asus''', '''Dell''' and the other respective manufacturers already make inexpensive and lightweight laptops, however they are locked in a certain software and hardware ecosystems and actually offer not too many security features. Also those devices do not work without the internet, so the reputation of such devices is often seen as a "personal data collecting devices", so that doesn't help to create a positive image towards such products.<br />
<br />
It is the fact that such devices also appear less flexible towards full '''FOSS''', '''GNU-GPL''' and '''EOMA''' guidelines that we want to use and set up as another standard for the new internet age.<br />
<br />
Such ethical standard is not based on a mere profit, but on protecting and also educating users of all ages on how '''not''' to engage in a voluntary dissemination of their private data all over the internet, often being used as a bait for large companies that take an advantage and make amazing profits because of such illiterate, involuntary, unconsciousness and irresponsible behaviour.<br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' is aimed to inexpensively enable end-user to control all the inputs via physical hardware switches and security dongles, preventing even a remote possibility to have system invaded or spied on by any 3<small>rd</small> party.<br />
<br />
<strong>I have nothing to hide. Who should be your target group than?</strong><br />
<br />
Here are some use cases and personas to which '''Balthazar''' just might appeal:<br />
<br />
'''1.''' '''An average basic internet user''' that requires some default security and develops a certain awareness on its own data privacy and is friendly-forced upon using the security and encryption through the default usage of the device.<br />
<br />
'''2.''' '''Advanced computer users, governmental and public institution's workers''' that need hardware and software features to prevent an intrusion and are skilled and aware enough, so they can use all the built in hardware and software features and use additional encryption for the prevention of official and personal data-theft protection through secure productivity apps and tools.<br />
<br />
'''3.''' '''Educational institutions''' that will teach online security, privacy and safety. Also such institutions can make wide and creative use of a device’s on-board connections versatility and connectivity.<br><br />
Proposed children and schools oriented [[User Interface]] and [[User Experience]] is utilising '''Linux''' based age-adoptive [['''Aperture Operating Environment''']] and features secure online in-the-browser Workbench that has fully customizable productivity apps.<br />
<br />
Added to it all, educational community should find the value in overall physical sturdiness, software and a hardware sustainability of '''BPCD'''.<br />
<br />
'''TLDR;''' <strong><big>For the children age 9-99.</big></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>What do you really want?</strong><br />
<br />
We want to enable and support low-income individuals and communities all over the planet, while carefully partnering with “humaine” and ethical corporations along the way. Those will participate as a co-creators and will get '''Balthazars''' to give away, rent or borrow '''BPCD''' to those who are unable to afford it. Or, alternatively they can build their own curriculum around '''Balthazar''' ecosystem.<br />
<br />
We loosely partner with '''LEGO® Education, Google Education''', educational institutions, various charities, foundations and '''EU''' initiatives, so we can only hope they can deliver expected behaviour and a practice.<br />
<br />
So, '''Balthazar''' is <strong>NOT</strong> '''OLPC'''-alike, but it does follow some of the '''OLPC''' product design innovations and features, that are adopted and improved for today’s performance requirements, strictly focusing on privacy, safety and personal data protection and encrypted shared data or a retention of the same in its own “cloud”.<br />
<br />
<strong>But... A "Cloud" is free, cool, useful and hype.</strong><br />
<br />
Remember - a “Cloud” is just other people’s or corporations’ computers that store your data when you do "share" your stuff with them.<br><br />
<br />
'''So, why should my child want one?'''<br />
<br />
[[Education]] being a very important issue today all over the planet is yet another field where BPCD could make an impact. New generations need to learn and understand the importance of being secure and how to care about their personal data, moreover on-board but retractable '''LEGO®''' specific RJ-12, Power Functions and GPIO connectors module enables users of all ages in controlling, testing and programming sensors, actuators and other electronic devices and gadgets from literally every manufacturer. ('''LEGO®''', '''Matrix''', '''VeX''', '''Arduino''' etc.)<br />
<br />
Want to know more?<br><br />
Please read the [[specifications and features]].</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar:Website_Tasks&diff=160Balthazar:Website Tasks2019-09-08T06:36:42Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>* Menu bar<br />
* Remove unnecessary stuff from side menu ✔️<br />
* Mobile CSS ✔️<br />
* Color schema<br />
* Footer<br />
* URL rewriting ✔️<br />
* Move search bar or incorporate it in the menu bar ✔️<br />
* enable media gallery - tweak and such<br />
* remove unused pages, images - clean means lean<br />
* logo, logo,logo - how "The Queen" succeeded? Freddie made a logo. And he sang real well. A Black Hat is a no go area, while funny it is understood within the community as a negative. More options please ...and BH must go sooner the better, as more people check the page day in day out.<br />
* let us concentrate to security and a privacy and old/new stuff - such as GNU.net and other initiatives.<br />
* links - cool stuff <br />
* partners? ecosystem? <br />
* ETQ excellence through quality - <br />
<br />
LEGO claims: "Only the best is good enough."<br><br />
Crusty the Clown claims: "It is not just good. It is good enough."<br><br />
<br />
<br />
S.Jobs: Let’s go invent tomorrow rather than worrying about what happened yesterday.</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Balthazar:Website_Tasks&diff=159Balthazar:Website Tasks2019-09-08T06:35:10Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>* Menu bar<br />
* Remove unnecessary stuff from side menu ✔️<br />
* Mobile CSS ✔️<br />
* Color schema<br />
* Footer<br />
* URL rewriting ✔️<br />
* Move search bar or incorporate it in the menu bar ✔️<br />
* enable media gallery - tweak and such<br />
* remove unused pages, images - clean means lean<br />
* logo, logo,logo - how "The Queen" succeeded? Freddie made a logo. And he sang real well. A Black Hat is a no go area, while funny it is understood within the community as a negative. More options please ...and BH must go.<br />
* let us concentrate to security and a privacy and old/new stuff - such as GNU.net and other initiatives.<br />
* links - cool stuff <br />
* partners? ecosystem? <br />
* ETQ excellence through quality - <br />
<br />
LEGO claims: "Only the best is good enough."<br><br />
Crusty the Clown claims: "It is not just good. It is good enough."<br><br />
<br />
<br />
S.Jobs: Let’s go invent tomorrow rather than worrying about what happened yesterday.</div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=158Features2019-09-08T06:32:34Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' '''low-latency kernel''' for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
'''CPU and RAM''' - as the development goes on '''BPCD''' is based on '''RISC-V''' and '''ISA''' architecture multi-core '''SoM''' or a System on a Module "card" that is exchangable and upgradeble. We put in maximum possible '''RAM''' and we use fastest clock speeds to achieve the best possible computing performance. There should be no compromise there.<br />
<br />
'''GPU''' - '''ARM''''s '''MALI-400''' architecture would do great, but we also look into drivers' compatibility and openness, too.<br><br />
While '''NVIDIA''' would be technically possibly the best performance choice, issues arise with general attitude towards FOSS compatibilty. In any case we look and listen into NVIDIA and CUDA options, accelerating totally open documentation from NVIDIA's side.<br><br />
Also the '''NVIDIA's Jetson''' platform is researched for a compatibility with '''RISC-V''' architecture, '''ISA''' and '''FOSS''' .<br><br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a '''passive cooling''' adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - fast boot time, as nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be also able to be switched on/off fast, so using Libreboot/Coreboot BIOS attitude for embedded should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring second '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 16 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned '''above''' the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harvhttps://balthazar.space/w/index.php?title=Features&diff=157Features2019-09-08T05:34:13Z<p>Harv: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''<big>Basic specifications and features</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Balthazar''' is made to run on '''Trisquel GNU''', '''Debian''' and '''Ubuntu''' variants of '''64 bit''' low-latency kernel for '''RISC-V'''.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Fanless''' - less movable parts means more battery time for the processing power and a passive cooling adds to the longevity of the components. Think quiet.<br><br />
<br />
'''Boot and sleep''' - fast boot time, as nobody has and especially children do not have the patience to wait.<br><br />
Ever since '''C64/AMIGA''' times computers should be also able to be switched on/off fast, so using Libreboot/Coreboot BIOS for embedded should do it.<br><br />
<br />
'''BPCD''' suspends to '''RAM''' and goes to hibernate when battery is at 20%. Properly.<br><br />
<br />
'''Upgradeable''' - RAM and a processor-board featuring second '''SoC/SoM''' attachment port.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-glare screen''' - size is 13.3” 16:10 full HD resolution (200 dpi +) that provides far less strain on user's eyes.<br><br />
<br />
'''A non-reflective''' - a button driven backlight “off” monochrome mode for very low-power use in sunlight - prolongs a battery life a lot.<br><br />
<br />
'''LED backlit''' - colour mode with an alternance of red, green and blue pixels.<br><br />
<br />
'''A detachable webcam''' - also with a slide lens cover and a hardware switch for on/off<br><br />
<br />
'''A volume wheel''' - ceramic potentiometer with a “click” for the on/off functionality.<br><br />
<br />
'''GPIO''' - a retractable and flexible robust flat-ribbon cable connecting General Purpose Input Output 16 pins array for connecting to all the things you want to connect it to.<br><br />
<br />
'''Quick charging battery''' - Long Life Cycle Polymer 10000 mAh that is also recyclable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Hot-swap''' - a second small battery enabling main battery hot-swap.<br><br />
<br />
'''Modular''' - on-board power supply that follows full '''ACPI''' specification.<br><br />
<br />
'''Waterproof keyboard''' - with a track-point ball.<br><br />
<br />
'''Multitouch pad''' - flat-flush and positioned above the keyboard. It has a “Wacom”-style mode for the extended stylus or a finger draw. It is multi-touch and gestures capable.<br><br />
<br />
'''Casing''' - a tough, rugged form-factor done by LEGO® A/S in a multi-colour recyclable plastic with added LEGO® studs.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Hardware security and privacy features:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Four (4) hardware '''off/on''' switches''' - webcam (detachable), speakers, the microphones array (detachable) and obligatory Wi-Fi.<br><br />
<br />
'''Detachable USB gender-changer dongle''' - that should prevent anyone to plug in USB-anything unless it is attached and a password unlocked, also when it is taken out prevents anyone to stick USB-anything in.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>A few extras:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''TEMPEST-shield internal cabling''' - shields from any external and internal electromagnetic radiation. Lead-free, but not inexpensive, mind you.<br><br />
<br />
'''A stylus''' - for a pad drawing, also provides enhanced entropy while generating PGP keys, easy graphic editing, poking someone etc.<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''<big>Additional adapter with onboard:</big>'''<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® Power Functions''' - for powering and the control of actuators. '''.<br><br />
<br />
'''RJ-12 LEGO®''' - “a shifted notch” connector for '''LEGO® MINDSTORMS®''' series of actuators and sensors<br><br />
<br />
<br />
'''Charms:'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''LEGO® keychain''' - for the USB dongle.<br><br />
<br />
[[Want to know more? Pretty pictures ahead.]] </div>Harv