The CHIP $9 microcomputer has 4GB of on-board storage and can go portable as well

We love Kickstarter projects. It’s pretty awesome to find people that are pushing the limits of where technology can bring us. In the case of this Kickstarter, it’s a group that has raised nearly $800,000 off a $9 computer, good for over 15x its original goal.

What all can you do with a computer that costs less than a combo meal? The guys behind CHIP say basically anything that you already enjoy on your computer. Work on documents with LibreOffice, surf the internet, check email or play games with a controller. CHIP has Wi-Fi, HDMI, Bluetooth, VGA and RCA connectivity options, which is good for most peripherals.

The technical specifications aren’t bad either for a microcomputer, it has a 1GHz processor, 512GB of RAM and 4GB of storage built right into the system. Compare this to Raspberry Pi 2 B which has a slower processor and very little on-board storage (although it does have twice the amount of RAM).

CHIP is taking it even further with a portable add-on that can be purchased as a part of the Kickstarter campaign that makes the computer into a Game Boy look-alike. The PocketCHIP provides a 4.3-inch touchscreen, QWERTY keyboard and a five hour battery life. A PocketCHIP + computer will run you $49, which nearly 15% of backers have elected to choose.

The open source software that CHIP is built around allows users to make a customized computing experience. The Kickstarter campaign reflect that with its multiple levels of funding that bring on different accessories and add-ons. These include optional HDMI and VGA adapters, multiple CHIPs or PocketCHIPs.

There is no denying that Kickstarter is enabling a whole new generation of inventors to pursue unique dreams. Make sure to check back daily as we roundup the coolest new projects and toys.

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