More than a desktop Linux companion. Much more. The ECOfile is an external companion system within the ECOS range, designed primarily as a dedicated file server and print server for RISC OS environments, while also functioning as a fully capable Linux desktop computer. It is aimed at users who need a centralised storage and printing hub that integrates seamlessly with RISC OS systems, but also want the flexibility to run modern Linux applications alongside those capabilities. At its core, the ECOfile uses an ARM-based Raspberry Pi Compute Module, paired with 8 GB of RAM. Storage is provided by a 1 TB SSD as standard, with an option for a dual-drive configuration to increase capacity or enable redundancy through RAID. The unit is housed in a compact external enclosure and powered by an external PSU, giving flexibility in placement - whether on a desk, in a media cabinet, or alongside other network hardware. File Sharing The ECOfile is designed to act as a centralised file store accessible by multiple RISC OS systems on the same network. It supports both RISC OS-specific file sharing protocols and standard cross-platform network protocols such as SMB/CIFS (Samba) and NFS. This allows it to serve files not only to RISC OS machines but also to Windows, macOS, and Linux devices without the need for complex setup. From the RISC OS side, it can be mounted like any other network drive, enabling users to open, edit, and save files directly to the ECOfile without copying them locally. Permissions can be configured so that certain directories are read-only while others are shared collaboratively. This makes it ideal for multi-user or multi-machine RISC OS setups, whether in a home, educational, or office environment. Because it runs Linux, the ECOfile can also host cloud sync clients, allowing specific folders to be mirrored to services like Nextcloud, Dropbox, or Google Drive. This enables RISC OS systems to benefit from cloud backup and synchronisation indirectly through the ECOfile without the need for native RISC OS clients. Print Serving The ECOfile includes integrated print server functionality using the CUPS (Common Unix Printing System) framework. This allows it to share both USB-connected and network-connected printers with any RISC OS machine on the network, regardless of whether native RISC OS printer drivers exist for that model. In practice, the ECOfile handles all the print rendering and driver support on the Linux side, presenting the printer to RISC OS as a standard network printer. This greatly expands the range of printers that can be used in a RISC OS environment, including modern multi-function inkjets and high-speed laser printers that would otherwise be unsupported. It also means that a single printer can be shared between multiple RISC OS systems without direct connection to each one. Additional Capabilities Beyond its file and print server roles, the ECOfile can function as a full Linux desktop environment when connected to a display via its dual 4K HDMI outputs. This allows direct access to Linux applications, including web browsers, office software, and media tools. The 6 USB ports make it easy to connect peripherals such as external drives, input devices, and backup hardware. Its dual-band Wi-Fi and Gigabit Ethernet connections provide flexible networking options, allowing it to operate as both a wired network server and a wireless access point if needed. The unit can also act as a bridge between RISC OS systems and other networked devices, facilitating smooth data exchange between otherwise incompatible platforms. For monitoring and quick status checks, the ECOfile features an optional OLED display panel, which can be configured to show system health information such as CPU load, storage usage, and network activity. Integration with RISC OS Workflows The ECOfile’s strength lies in its ability to quietly provide modern network services in the background while leaving RISC OS machines free to run at full speed for their primary tasks. Users can open and save files directly to the ECOfile without any special preparation, and print documents from RISC OS applications to printers that are physically attached to or managed by the ECOfile. By consolidating file storage, backup, and printing in one always-on, network-accessible device, the ECOfile reduces the complexity of a multi-machine RISC OS setup while expanding compatibility with modern hardware. Optional Cloud Server Capabilities The ECOfile can be configured to operate as a private or public-facing cloud server, allowing RISC OS and other systems on the network to access, store, and synchronise files over the internet. This is achieved by installing and configuring Linux-based cloud platforms or similar self- hosted solutions. When enabled, the ECOfile can: • Synchronise files between the ECOfile and multiple remote devices, ensuring that the latest versions are available on all connected systems • Provide secure remote access to files via HTTPS, with optional two-factor authentication for enhanced security • Allow selective sharing of files and folders with specific users, either locally or remotely, with granular permission controls • Offer version control, enabling users to roll back to previous versions of documents or recover accidentally deleted files. In practice, this means that a RISC OS system, which lacks native modern cloud clients, can indirectly participate in cloud-based workflows by saving files to a network share hosted on the ECOfile. The ECOfile then synchronises these files with the configured cloud service in the background. Additional benefits include the ability to: • Stream media (music, videos, photos) from the ECOfile to other devices via cloud-compatible apps. • Use built-in calendar and contact syncing features (where supported by the chosen cloud platform) for integrated personal information management. The cloud services can be configured for internal use only (private LAN cloud) or exposed to the internet with appropriate security measures such as SSL certificates, firewall rules, and VPN access. This optional capability effectively turns the ECOfile into both a local network server and a secure personal cloud hub, bridging the gap between RISC OS and the always- connected modern computing world without requiring third-party hardware. Technical Specification Processor Speed: 2.4GHz Memory: 8GB SSD Storage: 1TB NVMe storage with optional NVMe drive capacity Networking: Gigabit ethernet port and integrated WIFI USB ports: 6 Audio/Video: Twin full sized HDMI port with audio Up to 3840x2160 HDMI graphics OS and Software: Raspberry Pi OS (other Linux variants available) Case: Ultra compact mini aluminium case - 165mm x 99mm x 35mm Front Power Indicator LED Key info OLED screen Options: Installation of RISC OS on Linux plus other emulation systems 16GB RAM (upgrade from 8GB) Optional NVMe drives (with adaptor)

NVMe Drive Add-on