RISCOSbits Site Search (DuckDuckGo Lite)
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 operating as a fully featured Linux desktop computer. It is aimed at users who want a centralised, always-on hub for file storage, backup, and printing, but who also value the flexibility of a modern Linux environment alongside their RISC OS systems. At its core, the ECOfile uses an ARM-based Raspberry Pi base paired with 8 GB of RAM. Storage is provided by a 1TB SSD as standard, with an optional dual-drive configuration available to increase capacity. The unit is housed in a compact external enclosure and powered by an external PSU, offering flexibility in placement — whether on a desk, in a media cabinet, or alongside other network hardware. File Sharing and Network Integration The ECOfile serves as a centralised file store accessible by multiple RISC OS systems and other devices on the same network. It supports standard cross-platform file- sharing protocols such as SMB/CIFS (Samba), enabling seamless access from RISC OS, Linux, Windows, and macOS systems without complex configuration. RISC OS users can connect directly using OmniClient, LanMan98, or even FTPc via the integrated FTP service, opening, editing, and saving files directly to and from the ECOfile without needing to copy them locally. Configurable user permissions allow specific folders to be restricted or shared collaboratively across multiple machines, making it ideal for home, educational, and office networks. To enhance convenience, the ECOfile includes automatic mounting of USB drives, allowing removable storage devices to be accessed and shared across the network as soon as they are connected. This feature simplifies tasks like data transfer, backup, or temporary file exchange. Print Serving The ECOfile includes full print server functionality using the CUPS (Common Unix Printing System) framework. This enables both USB and network printers to be shared with any RISC OS system on the network, even where native drivers do not exist. In practice, the ECOfile manages all rendering and driver support internally under Linux, presenting the printer to RISC OS as a standard network device. This significantly broadens the range of printers that can be used within a RISC OS environment to include modern multifunction inkjets and high-performance laser printers, while allowing multiple RISC OS systems to share a single printer without direct connection. Web Interface and Application Platform The ECOfile features a built-in web management interface that can be accessed directly from RISC OS using the Iris Browser or any modern web browser. This intuitive dashboard provides access to configuration tools, system monitoring, file management, and installed applications. An integrated AppStore allows users to expand the ECOfile’s functionality with a wide range of optional packages, including Pi-Hole for network-wide ad-blocking, online office suites, web-based file browsers, and other productivity tools. Installation and updates are managed through the same interface, requiring no command-line experience. Cloud and Remote Access Capabilities The ECOfile can integrate with several popular cloud storage providers, enabling synchronisation and remote access to files without requiring additional hardware. Users can configure accounts to automatically mirror or back up selected directories between the ECOfile and cloud services, ensuring important data remains accessible across devices. The built-in web interface also provides secure access to files and folders remotely over HTTPS, with support for user authentication and optional two-factor security. This allows RISC OS systems, which may lack native cloud clients, to benefit from accessing modern cloud storage indirectly via the ECOfile, maintaining compatibility while extending connectivity. In addition to cloud integration, the ECOfile supports media streaming, calendar and contact synchronisation, and remote file sharing, providing a comprehensive set of tools for both local and remote users. Additional Capabilities and Integration Beyond its primary role as a file and print server, the ECOfile can function as a full Linux desktop environment when connected to a display via its dual 4K HDMI outputs. This enables direct access to Linux applications, including web browsers, office suites, and media tools. With six USB ports, it easily accommodates peripherals such as external drives, input devices, and backup equipment. Dual-band Wi-Fi and Gigabit Ethernet provide flexible network options, allowing it to act as both a wired file server and a wireless bridge. The unit can also serve as a gateway between RISC OS and other networked systems, facilitating smooth data exchange across platforms. An optional OLED status display offers at-a-glance monitoring of CPU activity, disk usage, network status, and other system metrics, making it easy to keep track of performance. Seamless Integration with RISC OS The ECOfile’s strength lies in its ability to provide modern network services in the background while allowing RISC OS systems to perform at full native speed. Files can be opened, saved, or printed directly from RISC OS applications, with the ECOfile handling all the heavy lifting behind the scenes. By consolidating file sharing, cloud access, printing, and peripheral management in one network-accessible device, the ECOfile simplifies the setup of multi-machine RISC OS environments while expanding their interoperability with contemporary technologies. 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
16GB RAM Upgrade
Emulation Station
Upgrades
ECOfile
£249

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RISCOSbits Site Search (DuckDuckGo Lite)
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 operating as a fully featured Linux desktop computer. It is aimed at users who want a centralised, always-on hub for file storage, backup, and printing, but who also value the flexibility of a modern Linux environment alongside their RISC OS systems. At its core, the ECOfile uses an ARM-based Raspberry Pi base paired with 8 GB of RAM. Storage is provided by a 1TB SSD as standard, with an optional dual-drive configuration available to increase capacity. The unit is housed in a compact external enclosure and powered by an external PSU, offering flexibility in placement — whether on a desk, in a media cabinet, or alongside other network hardware. File Sharing and Network Integration The ECOfile serves as a centralised file store accessible by multiple RISC OS systems and other devices on the same network. It supports standard cross-platform file- sharing protocols such as SMB/CIFS (Samba), enabling seamless access from RISC OS, Linux, Windows, and macOS systems without complex configuration. RISC OS users can connect directly using OmniClient, LanMan98, or even FTPc via the integrated FTP service, opening, editing, and saving files directly to and from the ECOfile without needing to copy them locally. Configurable user permissions allow specific folders to be restricted or shared collaboratively across multiple machines, making it ideal for home, educational, and office networks. To enhance convenience, the ECOfile includes automatic mounting of USB drives, allowing removable storage devices to be accessed and shared across the network as soon as they are connected. This feature simplifies tasks like data transfer, backup, or temporary file exchange. Print Serving The ECOfile includes full print server functionality using the CUPS (Common Unix Printing System) framework. This enables both USB and network printers to be shared with any RISC OS system on the network, even where native drivers do not exist. In practice, the ECOfile manages all rendering and driver support internally under Linux, presenting the printer to RISC OS as a standard network device. This significantly broadens the range of printers that can be used within a RISC OS environment to include modern multifunction inkjets and high-performance laser printers, while allowing multiple RISC OS systems to share a single printer without direct connection. Web Interface and Application Platform The ECOfile features a built-in web management interface that can be accessed directly from RISC OS using the Iris Browser or any modern web browser. This intuitive dashboard provides access to configuration tools, system monitoring, file management, and installed applications. An integrated AppStore allows users to expand the ECOfile’s functionality with a wide range of optional packages, including Pi-Hole for network-wide ad-blocking, online office suites, web-based file browsers, and other productivity tools. Installation and updates are managed through the same interface, requiring no command-line experience. Cloud and Remote Access Capabilities The ECOfile can integrate with several popular cloud storage providers, enabling synchronisation and remote access to files without requiring additional hardware. Users can configure accounts to automatically mirror or back up selected directories between the ECOfile and cloud services, ensuring important data remains accessible across devices. The built-in web interface also provides secure access to files and folders remotely over HTTPS, with support for user authentication and optional two-factor security. This allows RISC OS systems, which may lack native cloud clients, to benefit from accessing modern cloud storage indirectly via the ECOfile, maintaining compatibility while extending connectivity. In addition to cloud integration, the ECOfile supports media streaming, calendar and contact synchronisation, and remote file sharing, providing a comprehensive set of tools for both local and remote users. Additional Capabilities and Integration Beyond its primary role as a file and print server, the ECOfile can function as a full Linux desktop environment when connected to a display via its dual 4K HDMI outputs. This enables direct access to Linux applications, including web browsers, office suites, and media tools. With six USB ports, it easily accommodates peripherals such as external drives, input devices, and backup equipment. Dual-band Wi-Fi and Gigabit Ethernet provide flexible network options, allowing it to act as both a wired file server and a wireless bridge. The unit can also serve as a gateway between RISC OS and other networked systems, facilitating smooth data exchange across platforms. An optional OLED status display offers at-a-glance monitoring of CPU activity, disk usage, network status, and other system metrics, making it easy to keep track of performance. Seamless Integration with RISC OS The ECOfile’s strength lies in its ability to provide modern network services in the background while allowing RISC OS systems to perform at full native speed. Files can be opened, saved, or printed directly from RISC OS applications, with the ECOfile handling all the heavy lifting behind the scenes. By consolidating file sharing, cloud access, printing, and peripheral management in one network-accessible device, the ECOfile simplifies the setup of multi-machine RISC OS environments while expanding their interoperability with contemporary technologies. 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)
ECOfile
£249
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NVMe Drive Add-on
16GB RAM Upgrade
Emulation Station
Upgrades
£99
£25
£5