# Ben NanoNote

> pocket computer

**Wikidata**: [Q4886206](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q4886206)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_NanoNote)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ben-nanonote

## Summary
The Ben NanoNote is a pocket computer manufactured by Qi hardware. It is distinguished as a piece of open hardware, meaning its design documents are openly accessible and modifiable. The device operates on OpenWrt, a Linux distribution typically used for embedded systems.

## Key Facts
*   **Product Type:** Pocket computer (Instance of).
*   **Classification:** Open hardware (Subclass of); hardware with openly accessible design documents.
*   **Operating System:** OpenWrt (Linux distribution for embedded systems).
*   **Manufacturer:** Qi hardware.
*   **Components:** Equipped with a loudspeaker and a microphone.
*   **Aliases:** 本 NanoNote.
*   **Official Website:** http://en.qi-hardware.com/wiki/Ben_NanoNote
*   **Commons Category:** Ben NanoNote.

## FAQs
### Q: What distinguishes the Ben NanoNote from other pocket computers?
A: The Ben NanoNote is classified as open hardware, which means its design documents are publicly accessible for modification and use, unlike proprietary devices.

### Q: What operating system does the Ben NanoNote use?
A: The device runs on OpenWrt, a Linux distribution designed for embedded systems and Wi-Fi routers.

### Q: Who is the manufacturer of the Ben NanoNote?
A: The Ben NanoNote is manufactured by Qi hardware.

## Why It Matters
The Ben NanoNote serves as a notable example of the open hardware movement applied to personal computing. By defining the device as "open hardware," the manufacturer, Qi hardware, ensures that the internal design and specifications are transparent and modifiable by the user community. This approach contrasts with the closed architectures of mainstream pocket computers and smartphones.

The device is significant for its use of OpenWrt as an operating system. While OpenWrt is traditionally associated with Wi-Fi routers and network infrastructure, its implementation on the Ben NanoNote demonstrates the versatility of embedded Linux distributions in portable consumer electronics. This combination provides developers and enthusiasts with a highly hackable, transparent platform for mobile computing and embedded system development.

## Notable For
*   **Open Design:** Being a pocket computer categorized specifically as open hardware.
*   **Unique OS Choice:** Utilizing OpenWrt, an OS typically reserved for routers, for a handheld computer interface.
*   **Multimedia Hardware:** Including integrated loudspeaker and microphone components in a small form factor.
*   **Community Focus:** Being maintained under the Qi hardware brand, which emphasizes open accessibility.

## Body
### Hardware and Classification
The Ben NanoNote is an instance of a **pocket computer** and falls under the broader class of **open hardware**. This classification implies that the schematics and design documents for the device are made available to the public, allowing for modification and redistribution. The hardware includes specific multimedia components, namely a built-in **loudspeaker** and **microphone**.

### Software and Operating System
The device utilizes **OpenWrt** as its operating system. OpenWrt is a Linux distribution originally designed for wireless routers and embedded systems (inception: 2004-01-06). Its use in the Ben NanoNote provides a Linux-based environment tailored for resource-constrained hardware.

### Manufacturer and Identity
The Ben NanoNote is produced by **Qi hardware**. It is also known by the alias **本 NanoNote**. Resources and community information are hosted on the official website (Qi-hardware.com), and media related to the device is categorized under "Ben NanoNote" on Wikimedia Commons.