Cheapest low specs linux box. 256Mb ram etc

[chesss]

Hello
I am looking to build basically a very very low specs linux box. 256mb ram would be an overkill.
Storage requirements - 1-4 gb
Input - ability to plug in a mouse keyboard
Should be new, no second hands parts.
atleast 1 usb port.
Budget - 50$

Purpose:
This isn't for regular use, it would be used as a 80's arcade machine, cum download box , cum linux learning box. Among other uses..

Something like this tablet - on ebay , minus the screen and with the ability to load puppy in there.

Is something like this available in the market ?

Is this possible? Or am I asking for too much? If one can get a tablet for the 65$, then surely a similar box minus the screen would be less than 50$. right ?

Thanks

 

[T_Yamamoto]

raspberry pi

25 bucks and youre good to go!

 

[chesss]

for raspberry pi there is a waiting list of about 500,000 . So there is no way one get one anytime soon.
But yes you are right raspbberry pi is exactly what fits my requirements.

 

[Ken g6]

Well, the cheapest box is one that fits in your current box: a VirtualBox! If that's too fast, you can get a slower Bochs too.

 

[piasabird]

Cell Phone.

 

[piasabird]

I saw an add on newegg that says if you buy a computer for your job, you get a free XBOX360?

 

[piasabird]

Take an older Atom processor and underclock it.
http://clearancezone.directron.us/item.php?list=3770

Maybe you can find a used net top box for sale like a zotac Atom or ion device. Finding it fot $50, good luck.

 

[VirtualLarry]

I had a single-core Athlon64 S939 4000+ (2.4Ghz) rig with 2GB of RAM, 200GB SATA HD, and DVD drive, listed for $80 on my FS thread, but I took it off due to no interest.

Edit: It has Ubuntu pre-installed.

 

[mfenn]

I'd search FS/FT, Ebay, or Craigslist for used machines. Given your requirements, pretty much any box would do; all you'd need to do is find one that's cheap enough.