Over on Geekzone Mauricio wants to send someone into space. Here on Diversity we’re not up to that level (yet) but we do want to send someone to the bleeding edge.

I’m a firm believer in the Net PC concept – the idea that a low power machine, leveraging web applications and storage, is a useful tool – lightweight in terms of ecological footprint and lightweight in terms of cost.

I’m excited to introduce TechNovus, a company out of Australia that is launching their hybrid Cloud Computer to the Australasian market. As part of their launch, and in recognition of the fact that Diversity is a Cloud Computing evangelist, TechNovus and us are joining together to run a competition. One lucky winner will receive – gratis – a Nova Navigator ‘hybrid’ cloud computer along with a 6 month subscription to TechNovus’ cloud based applications.

The subscription gives users Cloud based updates, protection, storage and applications – after the trial period the subscription will run to around $20/month – not much for a managed, secure and accessible environment!

The Nova Navigator is a smart, low energy, low cost and completely managed computing solution. It provides customers with a choice of apps from Windows, Linux or Mac with Peace of Mind Computing.

The specifications of their device are as follows;

Processor: 1.6Ghz Intel Atom
Size: 12in X 10in X 2.5in
Multi OS: Windows, Linux, & Mac Apps
Local Apps: Firefox, Skype, Mediaplayer, Multi network IM, Notepad, Image Viewer
Cloud Apps: Open Office, MS Office*, Others coming soon
Storage: 50 GB online storage, use from anywhere through a browser
Devices Supported: USB I/O Devices (Keyboard, Mouse, Mass Storage Devices like USB Drives, External HDD, Printers)
Audio: In – Microphone, Out – Speaker
Networks: Ethernet, USB Wifi Dongle Supported
Technical Support (Phone & Email): Free 
Peace of Mind: Yes (No Virus, No Spyware and No Software Installations)
Energy Consumption: Maximum of 22W
Req. Bandwidth: Works with 512Kbps connection, 1 Mbps recommended

So how do you enter? Simple really – write a comment on the bottom of this post and you’re in with a chance. We’ll draw a name using a top-secret random number generator (some pieces of paper and a hat) and TechNovus will ship the device directly to the winner.

Entry is only available for our Oceania readers (but that’s only fair – normally we get cut out of US competitions) and the winner will be drawn on the day of the official launch of the Nova Navigator – October 27th.

So there you go – comment below and be in with a chance!

Ben Kepes

Ben Kepes is a technology evangelist, an investor, a commentator and a business adviser. Ben covers the convergence of technology, mobile, ubiquity and agility, all enabled by the Cloud. His areas of interest extend to enterprise software, software integration, financial/accounting software, platforms and infrastructure as well as articulating technology simply for everyday users.

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