What’s the difference of a mainstream low-cost embedded device to a workstation? - There are no human interface devices (HID) implemented in embedded hardware. Although you might find USB more and more often, the main thing lacking still is always the GPU. Purists may say now: “Hey, a terminal is all right, what’s wrong with you?!” - But I ask, what is the big deal about a proper VGA port and a bit more RAM for window managers? - None (at least technically). Some people from Taiwan seem to agree, btw. This is what this post is about: Embedded VGA. With only a few components and a D-Sub socket you can have an RGB port in your own design.

Here’s a Library with the Xcore86 Module for Cadsoft’s Eagle (with kind permission of Michael Barnes). The module is featuring the XGI Z9s. More information can be found here.