The Infamous EDIS Free RPi Colo
This article is to celebrate and commemorate the' 10th anniversary of the legendary EDIS Raspberry Pi colocation which was launched back in October 2012.
This was one of the craziest things we've ever done :-) We'd like to share some interesting fact and figures of what we started 10 Years ago:
EDIS hosts more than 500 RPi in its Graz (Austria) based facility since 2012. You really had to be quick when ordering, because a /24 IPv4 space which accounts for approximately 250 slots, was gone in less than 1 hour! According to Facebook statistics, the webpage hosting the free RPi colo offer was shared 440 times. 98% of the machines which have been sent to us between 2012 and 2015 are still up and running (as of Jan 2022).
Extremely Robust Devices
Some SD-cards had to be replaced/re-flashed during the last decade, but these tiny raspberries are really (very!) stable. About 1% of the boxes died and were replaced by their owners. One single RPi was sent back to his owner in California (was some kind of a limited edition, valuable first batch device).
EDIS received boxes with Raspberries from 4 continents. Our Postman loved us! He came every day with Santa-sized sacks full of parcels filled with little boxes from all-over the world. The main-load we received around Christmas 2012. Clients sent parcels expedited, some using overnight couriers, spending 150$ or more to bring their RPi online the very next day :-)
Raspberries and Chocolate
Each box contained the RPi and loads of interesting chocolates, cookies (even some amazing fossils!) from the senders' countries!
Initially, the entire community thought we were mega-fraudsters, but we delivered what we promised :-) And we keep our promise: the service remains free!
https://forums.raspberrypi.com/viewtopic.php?t=88277
https://www.linuxjournal.com/content/raspberry-strudel-my-raspberry-pi-austria
https://www.dnorth.net/2012/10/22/rpi-colo/
Please note that EDIS has no RPi hosting-slots available.
We might be back with some Raspberry Pi VPS, who knows ;-)
A Sense of Nostalgia ...
The Raspberry Pi Model B has long held a special place in the hearts of tech enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals alike. Introduced as a low-cost, credit-card-sized computer, its role in promoting digital skills and computer programming is unparalleled. The picture provided paints a clear testament to the longevity of these devices. While the SD card might be a weak link, needing replacement after many years of service, the core hardware itself has demonstrated admirable resilience.
Image Description: Closeup of a Raspberry Pi Model B which just received its brand new SD card. Its components are intact, and there's a sense of nostalgia in seeing this older model still in use.
The end.
Hello, Raspberry Pi Enthusiasts!
April 19, 2024 - It's with a bittersweet symphony of emotions that we bring you a slice of significant news from the tech pantry of EDIS Global. After a decade of serving as a cozy digital home for your beloved Raspberry Pi 1s, we've arrived at the crossroads where all good tales find their twilight - yes, the Raspberry Pi colocation service is taking a bow by the end of 2024.
An Ode to the Raspberry Pi
Picture this: It's been over 10 glorious years of ups, downs, and countless SD card changes. Our Raspberry Pi 1s have seen better days, with many now more 'pie' than 'Pi'. While we cherish the journey and the jolly camaraderie, these resilient little boards are showing their age, and it's time to let them rest.
The Gritty Details:
- Curtain Call: By the close of 2024, our Raspberry Pi colocation service will officially be a tale of yesteryear. It's not a decision we make lightly, but with heavy hearts and a longing look back at the memories shared.
- Tech Retirement: The truth is, our Raspberry Pi 1 pals are tired. Many are on their last legs (or chips?), and we're finding it increasingly challenging to keep them zipping along. EDIS Global must, therefore, retire from the Raspberry Pi colocation hustle.
- No Encore: We hear you asking, "But what about re-flashing or newer models?" Alas, our stage is set for a final bow, with no encores or reboots in the plans. It's a farewell tour for our Raspberry Pi 1 service.
What's Next?
Fear not! While we say goodbye to one chapter, we're all about ensuring your Raspberry Pi's legacy is handled with care.
Option 1: Reunited and It Feels So Good: Fancy a reunion? For a swift journey back to your arms:
- EU Lovebirds: Expedited DHL shipping at EUR 55.
- Global Comrades: Rest of the world DHL shipping at EUR 85 (mind the customs and duties).
Option 2: A Noble Goodbye: Not keen on a reunion? We'll ensure your Raspberry Pi 1's final journey is dignified and green. SD cards will be shred to bits (literally), ensuring no byte of your data falls into the wrong hands.
In Closing:
As we navigate this sunset together, we're filled with gratitude for the vibrant Raspberry Pi community. Your passion, projects, and pies (of all kinds) have made this journey unforgettable. Here's to the memories, the learnings, and the countless reboots!
Thank you for being part of this journey. For more details or to arrange for your device, please contact us at rpi@edisglobal.com
With a tear and a smile, Your Friends at EDIS Global
P.S. Any Raspberry Pi 1s accidentally turning into actual pies during the shipping process will be mourned deeply but not replaced.