Neelix
Insecticidal Maniac
Is that actually an error? I think it might be the first screen of the First Boot wizard.
That said, booting it to the desktop then taking the comparison shot again is probably not a bad idea.
-Neelix
That said, booting it to the desktop then taking the comparison shot again is probably not a bad idea.
-Neelix
Neelix
Insecticidal Maniac
Oddly enough, looking at those pictures I found myself thinking that I was really looking forward to seeing how it looked in an opaque case.
To each their own I guess.
-Neelix
rygD
Nihilistic Mystic
Nope, you get glow in the dark now.
kuru
Who the heck is Stephan Kramer?
I've already started
The Dragonbox Pyra is a desktop PC that fits in your pocket. With dimensions of 13,9 x 8,7 x 3,2cm it's only marginally bigger than the Nintendo 3DS and smaller than the 3DS XL.
<<I'd stick to something like: „and thus is even more compact than a 3DS XL“>>
Apart from its' size, a comparison to smartphones or gaming consoles is lacking - the Pyra follows its' own design principles:
Modularity, flexibility, openness and fairness.
It uses a full Debian Linux as operating system – no dumbed down version
This allows you to use the integrated packet manager to install anything you need. You can also set up a desktop environment of your choice (Xfce, Mint, Plasma, etc.).
It comes without spyware or similar stuff pre-packaged and there's no need for an account registration to get the full use out of the system.
The mobile data connection, superior tethered runtime, built-in keyboard and compact size all help to create the perfect miniature PC to go.
Modularity:
Today's fast-moving technical progress makes it so devices usually only see a short usage period, just to be replaced with the next model.
This is something we want to adress with the Pyra. Hence the design incorporates multiple, interconnected circuit boards:
Individually replacable components allow for affordable repairs and upgrades. The case is held together by screws, no glue is used, so the boards can be swapped by the user.
Periodic replacements with a complete, new unit are a thing of the past. Once an updated CPU board is available it can simply replace the old one. This fact helps conserve our environment and save money at the same time.
Flexibility and functions:
Only a handful of current mobile devices are really flexible, their overall functionality diminishes more and more. Missing smartphone keyboards, lacking connection ports and batteries are a symptomatic for this trend, as well as batteries that cannot be replaced by the user.
It's also commonplace to find that an account registration is required to get the full use out of those devices.
We are fighting this movement:
We've crammed everything onto the board that could fit:
Two USB2.0 A hosts, one MicroUSB3.0 AB (OTG with host functionality), MicroUSB (Serial out und charging), Headset-connector (accepting both Nokia and Apple standards) and a MicroHDMI port.
The use of a simple adapter allows connecting a(n) S-ATA drive to one of the USB 2.0 A ports.
<<The German text has an „n“ missing at: „angeschlossen werde()“>>
Turn the device into a full desktop PC by effortlessly connecting mouse and keyboard using USB, as well as a monitor via HDMI.
The Pyra's storage options are plentiful:
The present model comes pre-installedwith 32GB of internal eMMC memory. Furthermore the battery compartment houses a slot for MicroSDXC cards, and the unit's front side provides two slots for full-sized SDXC cards.
Every available card slot can be booted from. This makes setting up a test environment or backup system an easy task, also providing a simple way to install different OS (Linux, Android, RiscOS).
<<I'd stick to something like: „and thus is even more compact than a 3DS XL“>>
Apart from its' size, a comparison to smartphones or gaming consoles is lacking - the Pyra follows its' own design principles:
Modularity, flexibility, openness and fairness.
It uses a full Debian Linux as operating system – no dumbed down version
This allows you to use the integrated packet manager to install anything you need. You can also set up a desktop environment of your choice (Xfce, Mint, Plasma, etc.).
It comes without spyware or similar stuff pre-packaged and there's no need for an account registration to get the full use out of the system.
The mobile data connection, superior tethered runtime, built-in keyboard and compact size all help to create the perfect miniature PC to go.
Modularity:
Today's fast-moving technical progress makes it so devices usually only see a short usage period, just to be replaced with the next model.
This is something we want to adress with the Pyra. Hence the design incorporates multiple, interconnected circuit boards:
- The mainboard, populated with components that are unlikely to change anytime soon: USB, Wifi, battery charge control etc.
- The CPU board accomodating CPU, RAM and internal storage
- The display board housing all the components needed for driving the screen
Individually replacable components allow for affordable repairs and upgrades. The case is held together by screws, no glue is used, so the boards can be swapped by the user.
Periodic replacements with a complete, new unit are a thing of the past. Once an updated CPU board is available it can simply replace the old one. This fact helps conserve our environment and save money at the same time.
Flexibility and functions:
Only a handful of current mobile devices are really flexible, their overall functionality diminishes more and more. Missing smartphone keyboards, lacking connection ports and batteries are a symptomatic for this trend, as well as batteries that cannot be replaced by the user.
It's also commonplace to find that an account registration is required to get the full use out of those devices.
We are fighting this movement:
We've crammed everything onto the board that could fit:
Two USB2.0 A hosts, one MicroUSB3.0 AB (OTG with host functionality), MicroUSB (Serial out und charging), Headset-connector (accepting both Nokia and Apple standards) and a MicroHDMI port.
The use of a simple adapter allows connecting a(n) S-ATA drive to one of the USB 2.0 A ports.
<<The German text has an „n“ missing at: „angeschlossen werde()“>>
Turn the device into a full desktop PC by effortlessly connecting mouse and keyboard using USB, as well as a monitor via HDMI.
The Pyra's storage options are plentiful:
The present model comes pre-installedwith 32GB of internal eMMC memory. Furthermore the battery compartment houses a slot for MicroSDXC cards, and the unit's front side provides two slots for full-sized SDXC cards.
Every available card slot can be booted from. This makes setting up a test environment or backup system an easy task, also providing a simple way to install different OS (Linux, Android, RiscOS).
Blue Shadow
Very Active Member
- Joined
- Mar 7, 2016
- Messages
- 188
Other ideas and proofreading are welcome as well
I started to look through and found some minor typos so far (some are also debatable, so those corrections would be rather suggestions)
Wich way do you prefer: board, pn, .odt with tracked changes?
Last edited:
comradekingu
Glowing ember
EN-quickinfos
Edit: Technical specifications
preorder should, according to my spellchecker, be pre-order, but its consistently preorder everywhere else, and I like compound words.
Edit: Sent .odf's and .doc's as email "English versions of press kit texts"
Note: The content of this text can be used fully or in part. Of course, you may also write your own text and simply use the information found herein. Feel free to ask questions.
Crowdfunding for the DragonBox Pyra began May 1, 2016 at midnight German time (UTC+01:00). In just three days, the campaign has taken over 600 preorders -- almost 75% of the total amount needed to start production.
Approximately three years and 200,000 EUR has gone into the design and development, with a functioning prototype to show for it. Undergoing testing and refinement since early February.
Though there is no fixed shipment date, the first batch of Pyras are expected to go out before the end of the year.
The DragonBox Pyra being the successor to the OpenPandora, means countless improvements upon what was already a unique device. Sporting a feature-set not found in any other mobile device:
All of these features combine to make the DragonBox Pyra perfect for both work and play, on the go or at home, without being tethered to the wall.
Based on the model, the final price of the Pyra will be between 500-630 euro (without shipping or tax, which may not apply depending on your country).
Fair wages is one way of saying you are against slave labour, and it is another way of thinking about it too.
While the price can be compared to other flagships in different markets, you aren't lining the pockets of someone who isn't involved. It is very much a smallest scale operation, which proudly can say the Pyra is fairly priced, even though prices are higher for smaller players.
The more people join, the fairer it gets on us all.
A quote from one of our newest members, Razy:
„If you put a screwdriver anywhere near a branded device, that brand will practically disown you. With a device like the Pyra, the moment you grab a screwdriver, a whole community will peek over your shoulder with curiosity and advice.“
In support of open-source hardware and software developers,
The dragonbox Pyra.
Crowdfunding for the DragonBox Pyra began May 1, 2016 at midnight German time (UTC+01:00). In just three days, the campaign has taken over 600 preorders -- almost 75% of the total amount needed to start production.
Approximately three years and 200,000 EUR has gone into the design and development, with a functioning prototype to show for it. Undergoing testing and refinement since early February.
Though there is no fixed shipment date, the first batch of Pyras are expected to go out before the end of the year.
The DragonBox Pyra being the successor to the OpenPandora, means countless improvements upon what was already a unique device. Sporting a feature-set not found in any other mobile device:
- Completely open: Free open-source software Debian GNU/Linux operating system, and an open hardware design -- easy to hack, repair, and mod
- Complete control:Touchscreen, backlit keyboard, game controls, analogue nubs, and four shoulder buttons
- Space to breathe: 32 GB of onboard eMMC storage, two full-sized SDXC card slots, plus internal microSDXC card slot. Great for photographers and people who want to carry their whole music collection.
- Plays well with others: Two USB 2.0-A host ports, a microUSB-B OTG port, combined mic and headphone audio jack, and a micro HDMI port
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.1, Wi-Fi a/b/g/n (2.4 / 5 GHz)
- No strings attached:No registration required, no logging, no tracking and no spying. From the hardware up.
- Made to last: Modular design ensures future CPU upgrades are possible by replacing a board instead of buying a whole new device -- good for the environment!
- Transparent development: Choices and discussion made on and by the DragonBox community forums, chatroom and blog. Open for all to take part.
- Community and support: The Pyra will be pushed to its limits by the friendly and enthusiastic people you meet on the forums
- Quality craftmanship: With the main system chip designed and made in the USA, in a sturdy case from Greece, fully assembled and designed in Germany
- Pocketable:Being less than the total size of a classic GameBox, with a 720p 5“ (293.72 ppi resolution) screen, it‘s there for the journey. And thanks to its 6000mAh battery, it goes the whole way.
All of these features combine to make the DragonBox Pyra perfect for both work and play, on the go or at home, without being tethered to the wall.
- Cellular modem: Optional LTE/3G/GPRS isolated modem and telephony services means it can not only be a more handy laptop, but could also replace your phone.
Based on the model, the final price of the Pyra will be between 500-630 euro (without shipping or tax, which may not apply depending on your country).
Fair wages is one way of saying you are against slave labour, and it is another way of thinking about it too.
While the price can be compared to other flagships in different markets, you aren't lining the pockets of someone who isn't involved. It is very much a smallest scale operation, which proudly can say the Pyra is fairly priced, even though prices are higher for smaller players.
The more people join, the fairer it gets on us all.
A quote from one of our newest members, Razy:
„If you put a screwdriver anywhere near a branded device, that brand will practically disown you. With a device like the Pyra, the moment you grab a screwdriver, a whole community will peek over your shoulder with curiosity and advice.“
In support of open-source hardware and software developers,
The dragonbox Pyra.
Edit: Technical specifications
Technical Specifications:
The Pyra is built in a modular way and consists of the following three boards:
1. Mainboard
2. Display-Board
3. CPU-Board
These boards can be individually replaced by the user, i.e. when a new model (like a more recent CPU-Board) becomes available, the system can be upgraded easily.
Base-System including Mainboard:
2x ARM Cortex-M4
PowerVR™ SGX544-MP2
Vivante GC320 2D Accelerator
The Pyra is built in a modular way and consists of the following three boards:
1. Mainboard
2. Display-Board
3. CPU-Board
These boards can be individually replaced by the user, i.e. when a new model (like a more recent CPU-Board) becomes available, the system can be upgraded easily.
Base-System including Mainboard:
- Size: about 139 x 84 x 29 mm
- High-Quality speakers, analogue volume wheel
- Headset-Port, Built-in-mic, HDMI video out, Force feedback vibramotor
- Ultra-portable: approx. 139 x 87 x 32 mm*
- Huge battery for a long battery life (6000mAh)
- Gaming controls (D-Pad, 4 shoulder buttons, 6 face buttons)
- Two accurate analogue controls with push-button functionality
- Adjustable backlit QWERTY-keyboard
- Integrated Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.1
- Dual SDXC card-slots
- 2x Full-size USB host (one can be used as a eSATA connector with a small adaptor), 1x micro USB 3.0, 1x micro USB (Debug and Charge circuitry)
- Fully configurable RGB-LEDs for notifications
- Optional: 3G/4G and GPS module, various sensors
- Texas Instruments OMAP 5 SoC
2x ARM Cortex-M4
PowerVR™ SGX544-MP2
Vivante GC320 2D Accelerator
- 4GB RAM, 32GB int. storage
- 720p 5" LCD
- Resistive touchscreen
- Some time ago, I took to calling it a "moduleboard"(its that way on the wiki), since its not only the CPU. Don't know if that makes sense to anyone else. (Not changed in the actual text)
- Don't know about "vibramotor". I feel there is another more generic term to use. I understand its an unbalanced electromotor, and "rumble pak" probably belongs to Nintendo. "Force feedback vibration motor"?
- How many levels of pressure sensitivity does the touchscreen have? Any measure of its resolution?
- I like linking to what the part is called, rather than " 5" screen "
The Dragonbox Pyra is a pocketable laptop.
At 13,9 x 8,7 x 3,2cm it's only marginally bigger than the Nintendo 3DS and smaller than the 3DS XL.
Apart from size, how regular a smartphone or gaming console it is, is misguided - the Pyra follows its own principles of design:
Modularity, flexibility, openness and fairness.
It uses a full Debian Gnu/Linux operating system – regular desktop operating system that anyone can use.
Use the integrated package manager to install anything you need. If you so wish, you can pick the desktop environment of your choice (Xfce, Mint, Plasma, etc.).
It comes without spyware and there's no need for an account registration to get full use of the system.
Mobile data connection, superior runtime, built-in keyboard and compact size all help to create the perfect miniature PC on the go.
Modularity:
Today's fast-moving technical progress makes that the the longevity of the otherwise usable parts, don't outlast the lifespan of the device as a whole, only to be all too conveniently replaced by the next model.
This is something we want to adress with the Pyra. Hence why its design incorporates multiple, interconnected circuit boards:
The case is held together by screws, no glue is used, so the boards can be swapped by the user. We trust you with a screwdriver.
Periodic replacements with a complete, new unit are a thing of the past. Once an updated CPU-board is available, it can simply replace the old one. Helps the environment and saving you money at the same time.
Flexibility:
Flexibility and control of mobile devices is dwindling. Missing smartphone keyboards, lack of connection ports, glued-in screens and non-replaceable batteries are symptomatic to this trend.
It's also commonplace to find account registration is required to get full use out of those devices.
We are fighting this:
We've crammed everything that would fit onboard:
Two USB2.0 A hosts, one Micro USB3.0 A-B (OTG with host functionality), Micro USB (Serial out und charging), Headset-connector (accepting both OMTP (Nokia) and CTIA/AHJ (Apple) standards) and a Micro HDMI port.
The use of a simple adapter allows connecting a(n) S-ATA drive to one of the USB 2.0 A ports.
Enjoy it as a game-console by connecting the HDMI to your TV, or
turn the device into a full desktop PC by adding mouse and keyboard using USB.
The Pyra's storage options are plentiful:
The present model comes pre-installed with 32GB of internal eMMC memory. Inside the battery compartment you will find a slot for a MicroSDXC card, and the unit's front side provides two slots for full-sized SDXC cards.
Every available card slot can be booted from. This makes setting up a test environment or backup system an easy task, also providing a simple way to install different operating systems (Gnu/Linux, Android, RiscOS).
The internal storage also allows you to install anything you want. It's completely open and available to the user. In order to prevent mistakes the eMMC can easily be restored from an SD card, making the Pyra effectively unbrickable.
The biggest SD cards available today are 512GB of the SDXC variety, allowing for 1TB of additional storage, up to 4TB with future card models.
Available wireless connections include Bluetooth 4.1 and WI-Fi a/b/g/n (2,4 and 5GHz). Furthermore the Pyra mobile edition integrates LTE/3G/GPRS and even allows for telephony.
Next to the analogue and digital gaming controls a backlit, physical keyboard is part the appreciable physical controls.
The keyboard layout draws from years of community collaboration, making multilingual language input and everything you need, always within reach of your thumbs.
The Pyra's 6000mAh battery is user-replacable. Utilizing a 3D-printed plastic frame, even the predecessor's (OpenPandora) battery (4000mAh) can be used.
„What can it do?“ - This question can hardly be answered embracing everything that's possible:
Gaming, internet, office, music production, programming, administration, multimedia, design, image manipulation, etc.
Photographers can insert their SD cards into the system, copy files to another card or edit them directly on the Pyra and upload the results to their website or headquarters. All without lugging around a laptop, and from anywhere you can reach out with both arms.
Thanks to Gnu/Linux there are basically no limits.
Openness:
This is something we put a lot of emphasis on. Not only are we employing an Free open source OS and make source code of included programs publicly available, but strive to be as open as possible in all regards.
There is no need to register an account and the device will not „phone home“.
The development and production processes have been openly relayed to the public, granting insight at a level unheard of at other companies. It's possible to address the developers directly with questions and engage in discussions.
The Pyra's schematics will be released to the public in their entirety.
This allows everybody to design and create new CPU-boards.
Another possibility would be creating a new mainboard, to use Pyra-CPU board with that to form a for example a mini-server.
In theory you could create a Raspberry Pi CPU board, effectively transforming the Pyra into a portable RasPi.
Everybody is free to use their system the way they want.
Fairness:
No animals were harmed during the writing of this document.
Neither do we want to torture human beings in relation to the Pyra's production.
This is why we deliberately decided to produce the device in Europe:
Case tweaking and production takes place in Greece, while board-design, population and final assembly are handled in Germany.
While production in China would be considerably cheaper, we chose to not ignore the, usually abysmal, local working conditions. Monitoring those as well as the quality would only be possible on site and in person.
You cannot ignore China completely, as LCDs are hard to come by elsewhere, but we're doing our best to be as fair as possible.
Price:
The Pyra's price ranges from 595 EUR to 745 EUR, both including VAT, depending on the model.
This will seem quite high for most people. But judging by the functionality and possibilities on offer, as well as the fact that we're trying hard to treat everybody involved in the project as fairly as possible, the price is justified.
Future upgrades and cost-effective repairs will effectively lower the overall cost. Instead of throwing it away after two years of use, the Pyra has been made to last.
Financing is done via crowdfunding. We don't ask for the full price up front, just a down-payment.
After only 3 days 600 preorders are in – which makes up for about 75% of the orders necessary to start the first production run – without approaching press or media.
Off to a good start!
At 13,9 x 8,7 x 3,2cm it's only marginally bigger than the Nintendo 3DS and smaller than the 3DS XL.
Apart from size, how regular a smartphone or gaming console it is, is misguided - the Pyra follows its own principles of design:
Modularity, flexibility, openness and fairness.
It uses a full Debian Gnu/Linux operating system – regular desktop operating system that anyone can use.
Use the integrated package manager to install anything you need. If you so wish, you can pick the desktop environment of your choice (Xfce, Mint, Plasma, etc.).
It comes without spyware and there's no need for an account registration to get full use of the system.
Mobile data connection, superior runtime, built-in keyboard and compact size all help to create the perfect miniature PC on the go.
Modularity:
Today's fast-moving technical progress makes that the the longevity of the otherwise usable parts, don't outlast the lifespan of the device as a whole, only to be all too conveniently replaced by the next model.
This is something we want to adress with the Pyra. Hence why its design incorporates multiple, interconnected circuit boards:
- Mainboard, has the things that won’t change anytime soon: USB, Wi-Fi, charging circuitry etc.
- CPU-board, accommodating CPU, RAM and internal storage.
- Displayboard, housing all the components needed for driving the screen.
The case is held together by screws, no glue is used, so the boards can be swapped by the user. We trust you with a screwdriver.
Periodic replacements with a complete, new unit are a thing of the past. Once an updated CPU-board is available, it can simply replace the old one. Helps the environment and saving you money at the same time.
Flexibility:
Flexibility and control of mobile devices is dwindling. Missing smartphone keyboards, lack of connection ports, glued-in screens and non-replaceable batteries are symptomatic to this trend.
It's also commonplace to find account registration is required to get full use out of those devices.
We are fighting this:
We've crammed everything that would fit onboard:
Two USB2.0 A hosts, one Micro USB3.0 A-B (OTG with host functionality), Micro USB (Serial out und charging), Headset-connector (accepting both OMTP (Nokia) and CTIA/AHJ (Apple) standards) and a Micro HDMI port.
The use of a simple adapter allows connecting a(n) S-ATA drive to one of the USB 2.0 A ports.
Enjoy it as a game-console by connecting the HDMI to your TV, or
turn the device into a full desktop PC by adding mouse and keyboard using USB.
The Pyra's storage options are plentiful:
The present model comes pre-installed with 32GB of internal eMMC memory. Inside the battery compartment you will find a slot for a MicroSDXC card, and the unit's front side provides two slots for full-sized SDXC cards.
Every available card slot can be booted from. This makes setting up a test environment or backup system an easy task, also providing a simple way to install different operating systems (Gnu/Linux, Android, RiscOS).
The internal storage also allows you to install anything you want. It's completely open and available to the user. In order to prevent mistakes the eMMC can easily be restored from an SD card, making the Pyra effectively unbrickable.
The biggest SD cards available today are 512GB of the SDXC variety, allowing for 1TB of additional storage, up to 4TB with future card models.
Available wireless connections include Bluetooth 4.1 and WI-Fi a/b/g/n (2,4 and 5GHz). Furthermore the Pyra mobile edition integrates LTE/3G/GPRS and even allows for telephony.
Next to the analogue and digital gaming controls a backlit, physical keyboard is part the appreciable physical controls.
The keyboard layout draws from years of community collaboration, making multilingual language input and everything you need, always within reach of your thumbs.
The Pyra's 6000mAh battery is user-replacable. Utilizing a 3D-printed plastic frame, even the predecessor's (OpenPandora) battery (4000mAh) can be used.
„What can it do?“ - This question can hardly be answered embracing everything that's possible:
Gaming, internet, office, music production, programming, administration, multimedia, design, image manipulation, etc.
Photographers can insert their SD cards into the system, copy files to another card or edit them directly on the Pyra and upload the results to their website or headquarters. All without lugging around a laptop, and from anywhere you can reach out with both arms.
Thanks to Gnu/Linux there are basically no limits.
Openness:
This is something we put a lot of emphasis on. Not only are we employing an Free open source OS and make source code of included programs publicly available, but strive to be as open as possible in all regards.
There is no need to register an account and the device will not „phone home“.
The development and production processes have been openly relayed to the public, granting insight at a level unheard of at other companies. It's possible to address the developers directly with questions and engage in discussions.
The Pyra's schematics will be released to the public in their entirety.
This allows everybody to design and create new CPU-boards.
Another possibility would be creating a new mainboard, to use Pyra-CPU board with that to form a for example a mini-server.
In theory you could create a Raspberry Pi CPU board, effectively transforming the Pyra into a portable RasPi.
Everybody is free to use their system the way they want.
Fairness:
No animals were harmed during the writing of this document.
Neither do we want to torture human beings in relation to the Pyra's production.
This is why we deliberately decided to produce the device in Europe:
Case tweaking and production takes place in Greece, while board-design, population and final assembly are handled in Germany.
While production in China would be considerably cheaper, we chose to not ignore the, usually abysmal, local working conditions. Monitoring those as well as the quality would only be possible on site and in person.
You cannot ignore China completely, as LCDs are hard to come by elsewhere, but we're doing our best to be as fair as possible.
Price:
The Pyra's price ranges from 595 EUR to 745 EUR, both including VAT, depending on the model.
This will seem quite high for most people. But judging by the functionality and possibilities on offer, as well as the fact that we're trying hard to treat everybody involved in the project as fairly as possible, the price is justified.
Future upgrades and cost-effective repairs will effectively lower the overall cost. Instead of throwing it away after two years of use, the Pyra has been made to last.
Financing is done via crowdfunding. We don't ask for the full price up front, just a down-payment.
After only 3 days 600 preorders are in – which makes up for about 75% of the orders necessary to start the first production run – without approaching press or media.
Off to a good start!
preorder should, according to my spellchecker, be pre-order, but its consistently preorder everywhere else, and I like compound words.
Edit: Sent .odf's and .doc's as email "English versions of press kit texts"
Last edited:
kuru
Who the heck is Stephan Kramer?
EN-Allgemeine-Infos
Please do ze readings of pruf:
Please do ze readings of pruf:
The Dragonbox Pyra is a desktop PC that fits in your pocket. With dimensions of 13,9 x 8,7 x 3,2cm it's only marginally bigger than the Nintendo 3DS and smaller than the 3DS XL.
<<I'd stick to something like: „and thus is even more compact than a 3DS XL“>>
Apart from its' size, a comparison to smartphones or gaming consoles is lacking - the Pyra follows its' own design principles:
Modularity, flexibility, openness and fairness.
It uses a full Debian Linux as operating system – no dumbed down version.
This allows you to use the integrated packet manager to install anything you need. You can also set up a desktop environment of your choice (Xfce, Mint, Plasma, etc.).
It comes without spyware or similar stuff pre-packaged and there's no need for an account registration to get the full use out of the system.
The mobile data connection, superior tethered runtime, built-in keyboard and compact size all help to create the perfect miniature PC to go.
Modularity:
Today's fast-moving technical progress makes it so devices usually only see a short usage period, just to be replaced with the next model.
This is something we want to adress with the Pyra. Hence its' design incorporates multiple, interconnected circuit boards:
Periodic replacements with a complete, new unit are a thing of the past. Once an updated CPU board is available it can simply replace the old one. This fact helps conserve our environment and save money at the same time.
Flexibility:
<<I'd remove "and functions">>
Only a handful of current mobile devices are really flexible, their overall functionality diminishes more and more. Missing smartphone keyboards, lacking connection ports and non-replaceable batteries are symptomatic for this trend.
It's also commonplace to find that an account registration is required to get the full use out of those devices.
We are fighting this movement:
We've crammed everything onto the board that could fit:
Two USB2.0 A hosts, one MicroUSB3.0 AB (OTG with host functionality), MicroUSB (Serial out und charging), Headset-connector (accepting both Nokia and Apple standards) and a MicroHDMI port.
The use of a simple adapter allows connecting a(n) S-ATA drive to one of the USB 2.0 A ports.
<<The German text has an „n“ missing at: „angeschlossen werde()“>>
Turn the device into a full desktop PC by effortlessly connecting mouse and keyboard using USB, as well as a monitor via HDMI.
The Pyra's storage options are plentiful:
The present model comes pre-installedwith 32GB of internal eMMC memory. Furthermore the battery compartment houses a slot for MicroSDXC cards, and the unit's front side provides two slots for full-sized SDXC cards.
Every available card slot can be booted from. This makes setting up a test environment or backup system an easy task, also providing a simple way to install different operating systems (Linux, Android, RiscOS).
The internal storage also allows you to install anything you want. It's completely open and available to the user. In order to prevent mistakes the eMMC can easily be restored from an SD card, making the Pyra effectively unbrickable.
The biggest SD cards available today are 512GB SDXC, allowing for 1TB of additional storage, up to 4TB with future card models.
Available wireless connections include Bluetooth 4.1 and Wifi abgn (2,4 and 5GHz). Furthermore the Pyra mobile edition integrates LTE/3G/GPRS and even allows for telephony.
<<The German text has a repetition at: „Zusätzlich gibt es eine mobile Edition, die zusätzlich“>>
<<The German text lacks the bold font at „LTE/3G/GPRS“>>
Next to the analogue and digital gaming controls a back-lit, physical keyboard is part of the available input methods.
The keyboard layout is the result of many months of community collaboration, making it the best it can be for multiple languages and thumb typing; every key is easily reachable.
<<The German text also says „thumb-typing“ - can we find a better expression?>>
The Pyra's battery is user-replacable. Utilizing a 3d-printed plastic frame, even the predecessor's (OpenPandora) battery can be used.
„What can it do?“ - This question can hardly be answered embracing everything that's possible:
Gaming, internet, office, music production, programming, administration, multimedia, design, image manipulation, etc.
Fotographers for example are able to insert their SD cards into the system, copy files to another card or edit them directly on the Pyra and upload afterwards.
Thanks to Linux there are basically no limits.
Openness:
<<The German text lacks the colon) in this caption>>
This is something we put a lot of emphasis on. Not only are we employing an OpenSource-OS and make the source code of included programs publically available, but we strive to be as open as possible in all regards.
There is no need to register an account and the device will not „phone home“.
The development and production processes have been openly relayed to the public, granting insight at a level unheard of at other companies. It's possible to address the developers with questions and engage in discussions.
The Pyra's schematics will be released to the public in their entirety.
This allows everybody to design and create new CPU boards.
<<The German Text sounds a bit weird here: „zu erstellen und herzustellen“ - maybe „zu entwerfen und zu produzieren“?>>
Another possibility would be creating a new mainboard, say for a mini-server, and using the Pyra-CPU board with that.
In theory you could create a Raspberry Pi CPU board, effectively transforming the Pyra into a portable RasPi.
Everybody is free to use their system the way they want.
Fairness:
<<colon missing in German>>
No animals were harmed during the writing of this document.
Neither do we want to torture human beings in relation to the Pyra's production.
This is why we deliberately decided to produce the device in Europe:
Case design and production takes place in Greece, while board design, population and final assembly are handled in Germany.
While production in China would be considerably cheaper, we chose to not ignore the, usually abysmal, local working conditions. Monitoring those as well as the quality would only be possible on site and in person.
You cannot ignore China completely, as LCDs are hard to come by elsewhere, but we're doing our best to be as fair as possible.
Price:
<<colon in German>>
The Pyra's price ranges from 595 EUR to 745 EUR, both including VAT, depending on the model.
<<Need to insert Dollar values.>>
This will seem quite high for most people. But judging by the functionality and possibilities on offer, as well as the fact that we're trying hard to treat everybody involved in the project as fairly as possible, the price is justified.
Besides that future upgrades and cost-effective repairs will effectively lower the overall cost. Instead of throwing it away after two years of use, the Pyra has been made to last.
Financing is done via Crowdfunding. We don't ask for the full price up front, just a down-payment.
A few numbers: After only 3 days we reached 600 preorders – which makes up for about 75% of the orders necessary to start the first production run – without approaching press or media.
Off to a good start!
<<I'd stick to something like: „and thus is even more compact than a 3DS XL“>>
Apart from its' size, a comparison to smartphones or gaming consoles is lacking - the Pyra follows its' own design principles:
Modularity, flexibility, openness and fairness.
It uses a full Debian Linux as operating system – no dumbed down version.
This allows you to use the integrated packet manager to install anything you need. You can also set up a desktop environment of your choice (Xfce, Mint, Plasma, etc.).
It comes without spyware or similar stuff pre-packaged and there's no need for an account registration to get the full use out of the system.
The mobile data connection, superior tethered runtime, built-in keyboard and compact size all help to create the perfect miniature PC to go.
Modularity:
Today's fast-moving technical progress makes it so devices usually only see a short usage period, just to be replaced with the next model.
This is something we want to adress with the Pyra. Hence its' design incorporates multiple, interconnected circuit boards:
- The mainboard, populated with components that are unlikely to change anytime soon: USB, Wifi, battery charge control etc.
- The CPU board accomodating CPU, RAM and internal storage
- The display board housing all the components needed for driving the screen
Periodic replacements with a complete, new unit are a thing of the past. Once an updated CPU board is available it can simply replace the old one. This fact helps conserve our environment and save money at the same time.
Flexibility:
<<I'd remove "and functions">>
Only a handful of current mobile devices are really flexible, their overall functionality diminishes more and more. Missing smartphone keyboards, lacking connection ports and non-replaceable batteries are symptomatic for this trend.
It's also commonplace to find that an account registration is required to get the full use out of those devices.
We are fighting this movement:
We've crammed everything onto the board that could fit:
Two USB2.0 A hosts, one MicroUSB3.0 AB (OTG with host functionality), MicroUSB (Serial out und charging), Headset-connector (accepting both Nokia and Apple standards) and a MicroHDMI port.
The use of a simple adapter allows connecting a(n) S-ATA drive to one of the USB 2.0 A ports.
<<The German text has an „n“ missing at: „angeschlossen werde()“>>
Turn the device into a full desktop PC by effortlessly connecting mouse and keyboard using USB, as well as a monitor via HDMI.
The Pyra's storage options are plentiful:
The present model comes pre-installedwith 32GB of internal eMMC memory. Furthermore the battery compartment houses a slot for MicroSDXC cards, and the unit's front side provides two slots for full-sized SDXC cards.
Every available card slot can be booted from. This makes setting up a test environment or backup system an easy task, also providing a simple way to install different operating systems (Linux, Android, RiscOS).
The internal storage also allows you to install anything you want. It's completely open and available to the user. In order to prevent mistakes the eMMC can easily be restored from an SD card, making the Pyra effectively unbrickable.
The biggest SD cards available today are 512GB SDXC, allowing for 1TB of additional storage, up to 4TB with future card models.
Available wireless connections include Bluetooth 4.1 and Wifi abgn (2,4 and 5GHz). Furthermore the Pyra mobile edition integrates LTE/3G/GPRS and even allows for telephony.
<<The German text has a repetition at: „Zusätzlich gibt es eine mobile Edition, die zusätzlich“>>
<<The German text lacks the bold font at „LTE/3G/GPRS“>>
Next to the analogue and digital gaming controls a back-lit, physical keyboard is part of the available input methods.
The keyboard layout is the result of many months of community collaboration, making it the best it can be for multiple languages and thumb typing; every key is easily reachable.
<<The German text also says „thumb-typing“ - can we find a better expression?>>
The Pyra's battery is user-replacable. Utilizing a 3d-printed plastic frame, even the predecessor's (OpenPandora) battery can be used.
„What can it do?“ - This question can hardly be answered embracing everything that's possible:
Gaming, internet, office, music production, programming, administration, multimedia, design, image manipulation, etc.
Fotographers for example are able to insert their SD cards into the system, copy files to another card or edit them directly on the Pyra and upload afterwards.
Thanks to Linux there are basically no limits.
Openness:
<<The German text lacks the colon
) in this caption>>This is something we put a lot of emphasis on. Not only are we employing an OpenSource-OS and make the source code of included programs publically available, but we strive to be as open as possible in all regards.
There is no need to register an account and the device will not „phone home“.
The development and production processes have been openly relayed to the public, granting insight at a level unheard of at other companies. It's possible to address the developers with questions and engage in discussions.
The Pyra's schematics will be released to the public in their entirety.
This allows everybody to design and create new CPU boards.
<<The German Text sounds a bit weird here: „zu erstellen und herzustellen“ - maybe „zu entwerfen und zu produzieren“?>>
Another possibility would be creating a new mainboard, say for a mini-server, and using the Pyra-CPU board with that.
In theory you could create a Raspberry Pi CPU board, effectively transforming the Pyra into a portable RasPi.
Everybody is free to use their system the way they want.
Fairness:
<<colon missing in German>>
No animals were harmed during the writing of this document.
Neither do we want to torture human beings in relation to the Pyra's production.
This is why we deliberately decided to produce the device in Europe:
Case design and production takes place in Greece, while board design, population and final assembly are handled in Germany.
While production in China would be considerably cheaper, we chose to not ignore the, usually abysmal, local working conditions. Monitoring those as well as the quality would only be possible on site and in person.
You cannot ignore China completely, as LCDs are hard to come by elsewhere, but we're doing our best to be as fair as possible.
Price:
<<colon in German>>
The Pyra's price ranges from 595 EUR to 745 EUR, both including VAT, depending on the model.
<<Need to insert Dollar values.>>
This will seem quite high for most people. But judging by the functionality and possibilities on offer, as well as the fact that we're trying hard to treat everybody involved in the project as fairly as possible, the price is justified.
Besides that future upgrades and cost-effective repairs will effectively lower the overall cost. Instead of throwing it away after two years of use, the Pyra has been made to last.
Financing is done via Crowdfunding. We don't ask for the full price up front, just a down-payment.
A few numbers: After only 3 days we reached 600 preorders – which makes up for about 75% of the orders necessary to start the first production run – without approaching press or media.
Off to a good start!
Vibration motor is fine I'd say, that seems to be the technical term.
Last edited:
ible
professional vim user
@kuru
if only i saw your post sooner. oh well, good to brush up on my german... and writing skills...
here's my take on a few things.
intro:
in modularity:
So instead of discarding the Pyra when a newer processor comes along, swapping in a new CPU board becomes cheaper and more environmentally responsible.
here's some of my stuff from functionality/flexibility, moving a few things around (so that storage is all mentioned together):
if only i saw your post sooner
. oh well, good to brush up on my german... and writing skills...here's my take on a few things.
intro:
The DragonBox Pyra isn‘t another underutilized smartphone or locked-down gaming console, but rather achieves its own design goals:
Modularity, Flexibility, Openness, Fairness
The operating system is stock Debian Linux, without any restrictions or hurdles to utilize the full capabilities of the device. It is simple, quick, and free of cost to install many thousands of packages: games, productivity apps, and a personalized desktop environment (Xfce, Mint, Plasma, etc.).
The Pyra comes without spyware or bloatware, and requires no registration or account to unlock all its features.
With a cellular modem, long battery life, built-in keyboard, and small size, it‘s the ideal miniature PC for on the go!
Modularity, Flexibility, Openness, Fairness
The operating system is stock Debian Linux, without any restrictions or hurdles to utilize the full capabilities of the device. It is simple, quick, and free of cost to install many thousands of packages: games, productivity apps, and a personalized desktop environment (Xfce, Mint, Plasma, etc.).
The Pyra comes without spyware or bloatware, and requires no registration or account to unlock all its features.
With a cellular modem, long battery life, built-in keyboard, and small size, it‘s the ideal miniature PC for on the go!
in modularity:
- The CPU board, which also holds the GPU, RAM, and internal eMMC memory
So instead of discarding the Pyra when a newer processor comes along, swapping in a new CPU board becomes cheaper and more environmentally responsible.
here's some of my stuff from functionality/flexibility, moving a few things around (so that storage is all mentioned together):
Plug in a USB mouse, USB keyboard, and an external monitor via HDMI, and the Pyra becomes a low-power Desktop PC.
The Pyra doesn‘t skimp on memory, either. It has 32 GB eMMC internal storage preinstalled, and can presently fit over a terabyte of data in fast removable storage: the Pyra has a microSDXC slot in the battery compartment, and two SDXC card slots on the front of the device.
While current SDXC cards max out at 512 GB, future SDXC cards would put the possible Pyra storage at over 4 TB.
The OS can boot from any of these storage options, so one can try out different distributions of GNU/Linux, Android, etc., to try out bleeding edge programs and/or keep a stable backup OS in place.
The internal memory is also available for programs and content: it‘s open and unlocked. But just in case something goes wrong, the standard Pyra OS can be reinstalled from an SD card. The Pyra is unbrickable.
The Pyra comes standard with wireless Bluetooth 4.1 and WiFi abgn (2.4 and 5GHz) connectivity, and the mobile edition adds LTE/3G/GPS (including phone capabilities).
Alongside analog and digital game controls, there is a physical keyboard with LED backlights. The keyboard layout took shape over many months of community input, so that it is perfect for many languages and suitable for thumb typing.
Each thumb can easily reach any key on its side of the Pyra.
The Pyra doesn‘t skimp on memory, either. It has 32 GB eMMC internal storage preinstalled, and can presently fit over a terabyte of data in fast removable storage: the Pyra has a microSDXC slot in the battery compartment, and two SDXC card slots on the front of the device.
While current SDXC cards max out at 512 GB, future SDXC cards would put the possible Pyra storage at over 4 TB.
The OS can boot from any of these storage options, so one can try out different distributions of GNU/Linux, Android, etc., to try out bleeding edge programs and/or keep a stable backup OS in place.
The internal memory is also available for programs and content: it‘s open and unlocked. But just in case something goes wrong, the standard Pyra OS can be reinstalled from an SD card. The Pyra is unbrickable.
The Pyra comes standard with wireless Bluetooth 4.1 and WiFi abgn (2.4 and 5GHz) connectivity, and the mobile edition adds LTE/3G/GPS (including phone capabilities).
Alongside analog and digital game controls, there is a physical keyboard with LED backlights. The keyboard layout took shape over many months of community input, so that it is perfect for many languages and suitable for thumb typing.
Each thumb can easily reach any key on its side of the Pyra.
rygD
Nihilistic Mystic
Is it worth mentioning the shoulder buttons can (or will, by default) act as modifier keys, which allows those keys to be more easily pressed with other keys, and all that other stuff (media keys, and whatever I am forgetting) that was discussed about them? It seems like it would be too much and distract from everything else, however that has already come up in comments on other sites.
kuru
Who the heck is Stephan Kramer?
Djoga'Ro
moonstruck
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2016
- Messages
- 2,504
I'd plainly call it vibrator. Might even generate additional preorders on its own.
comradekingu
Glowing ember
Sleep is for the brain!
Eight Bit
Hardcore Member
And like the Pandora it's not just about the device right?
It's worth mentioning that this machine is created by one(!) man (not a team like the GPD WIN) with input from the community which has real user experience with the Pandora.
It's why I fell in love with the Pandora, the vibrance, the life around it. It's why I bought a Pyra.
It's worth mentioning that this machine is created by one(!) man (not a team like the GPD WIN) with input from the community which has real user experience with the Pandora.
It's why I fell in love with the Pandora, the vibrance, the life around it. It's why I bought a Pyra.
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600 after three days? After 4 days we have barely reached 500.
Are there 100 unofficial ones?
Although ED is the driving force, there were others involved too (like Nikolaus who has done some excellent work) and I think they should be listed/mentioned more often.
You have to add those that haven't converted their Pre-Pre-Order to an Pre-Order yet.(87 right now according to phanboet)
Those weren't part of the mentioned three days though since they came way earlier.
Eight Bit
Hardcore Member
True, credits where they are due.
Still I think Ed == Pyra. Without him the project would have never come of the ground.
rygD
Nihilistic Mystic
Why are all of you in here posting instead of standing on corners telling people to order a Pyra?