So,
Managed to pick up the last E3 from Argos this morning for £30 - all seems in order, it even came with a free game pad!!
Had a chat with a couple of knowledgeable guys from the department to strengthen my understanding of embedded linux etc. They had a little read up on some of the components used in the E3 and seem to believe that it is definitely possible to get a kernel and file system on the beast!
Now starts the learning curve. I presume that the general aim is to overwrite the linux kernel and then mount a file system (perhaps through a usb memory device rather than using the onboard flash?) which will then allow software to be run on the system. I also assume that if the kernel is compiled with the correct libraries for the processor being used, then stuff like lcd and camera support (and ethernet - see below?) will work pretty easily. Please correct me if I am wrong.
Also, does anyone know if the mainboard has ethernet capacity - i know there is no ethernet port - but does the board support this? If it does, i imagine it to be a trivial task to solder a RJ45 socket on. I presume that this would also allow booting over a network??
As I mentioned before, my linux knowledge is pretty poor, but I feel sure that I can get to grips with it pretty quick, so I ask again if anyone has any good material to start reading from?
Chris. PS. Didn't see Kev today, but I'll be sure to pass the message on!! :)