Linux powers new set-top box

Coollogic has released a new set-top box, a Linux-based device that can run Java programs.

The Internet Ready 7200 uses a National Semiconductor MediaGX processor, 16MB of flash memory instead of a hard disk, 32MB of RAM and has the ability to connect to the Internet via DSL, Ethernet or a modem. It uses a TV instead of a monitor and comes with Netscape's Web browser.

Coollogic won't brand the boxes with its own logo but intends instead to let others put their monikers on the devices, the company said.

NetFrontier is one such company. The company will offer the Coollogic boxes in mobile home communities, Coollogic said.

Acer America also has licensed Coollogic's design for use in its Internet appliances.

Coollogic is competing with several other companies, including Lineo and Red Hat, which today announced a partnership with Ericsson to power digital devices in the home.