Asus unveils 42in Linux-based Eee TV

Two desktop models too

Updated Asus has named the upcoming additions to its Eee PC family of low-cost computers, soon to be augmented with a small form-factor desktop machine, an all-in-one system and a TV.

The desktop - which Asus hinted at as far back as September 2007 - is to be called the E-DT. It'll be based on an Intel Celeron processor, much like the Eee laptop, though it's expected that future generations of the product will be based on Intel's 'Shelton' platform, a major component of which is the 45nm 'Diamondville' processor.

The E-Monitor, as its name suggests, will merge the E-DT's innards with a display panel. Asus said it'll have in integrated TV tuner too, though it was more vague about the screen's size: somewhere in the 19-21in range, it said.

Asus' E-TV: Linux loaded
Picture courtesy DigiTimes

The E-TV is a 42in LCD TV, but it will have computer technology on board running Linux to allow users to surf the internet and read email. Asus said it will retail for no more than $200 above what you'd pay for this kind of telly.

The E-Monitor - we're sure they can come up with a better name - will cost $499 when it goes on sale, which is scheduled to take place in September, the same month in which Asus expects to ship the E-TV.

The E-DT will arrive sooner, in April or May, the company said. It will be priced at $200-300.

Earlier this month, Asus said it would this year follow up the current 7in Eee PC with versions packing 8in and 9in displays - the latter possibly fitted with a touchscreen. Some will ship with WiMax wireless broadband technology.

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