The Onion Omega 2 is one of the inexpensive single-board computers that run Linux. The single-board computer is powered by a Mediatek processor, and it claims that it offers you the same efficiency as the Arduino and comes with the flexibility of Raspberry Pi. But it has a much lower price compared to other single board computers.
Moreover, it is referred as the IoT computer. Thanks to the combination of processing, network and encryption capabilities. The computer can be used for your IoT projects.
Also, getting started with Onion Omega 2 is pretty easy. It will boot up the OS right away and allow you to start developing apps for web and other platforms.
The project was originally launched on Kickstarter back in 2016, and it attracted about 16,537 backers raising a total of $672,80.
It is amazing that we can get a computer at such a low price. Luckily, it is a reality, and it comes with a bunch of hardware features along with great specifications.
Hardware Features
- MediaTek MT7688 processor
- 32MB storage (Plus model)
- SD card support (Plus model)
- Powered via Micro-USB (when using the expansion dock)
- NOT used with a screen – there’s no VGA/HDMI etc (all remote)
- 15 GPIO pins
- USB 2.0 (with expansion dock)
- WiFi b/g/n (which can also act as a router/range extender)
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What Software do Onion Omega 2 runs?
The Omega 2 runs an Onion customized version of the LEDE or Linux Embedded Development Environment Linux operating system. It is a distribution based on OpenWRT. Also, as this single board runs a full-fledged OS, hence it supports a variety of programming languages.
For example, it offers you support for languages like:
- C
- C++
- Python
- NodeJS
- Rust
- Ruby
- PHP
- Perl
- GoLang
- Shell
The good part is that Omega OS features web server by default. As a result, other devices on the same local network can communicate with Omega through a web browser.
Thoughts on Onion Omega 2
Onion Omega 2 is really one of the coolest minicomputers that you can have. With the help of this wifi development board, you will be able to build connected hardware applications. You don’t have to install any OS to get started, as it comes with an OS by default. So you can instantly get started with a project without going into a setup process.
The board is hugely versatile. Thanks to the available docks offered by Onion. So, you can attach these docks to the single board computer and expand its usability. You have to buy docks based on your project requirements, and you are good to go.
is it commercially available?
Yes, it is up for pre-order.
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Don’t forget about the raspberry pi zero. It’s $5 but has better specs… ?
Ah! Indeed. It completely skipped my mind. Thanks for reminding me of it.
Thanks for recomendation!