2nd catch, behind the power on time: PWDIS drives: if you’re not using them somewhere with sata 3.2/3.3, you need to use an adapter for the power plug, or some tape, to block pins 1-3 (3.3v) as supplying it to these causes them to reset. Might be worth doing the taping anyway, if you’re using an enclosure or cage (where you can’t use the adapters)
The kicker to this sort of thing, is the pirated versions usually have the checks removed… and don’t need internet.
Nook Simple Touch. You can get one with backlight for less than $40 usually.
It takes microSD, android 2.1 (lol)
There’s an easy app to root it, then you install whatever (fbreader, moon, etc), or use it’s built-in reader. The ancient android version means you’ll have to dig for apks that work with it, but once it’s set up, it’s done.
The biggest draw vs newer stuff, is… it’s tiny and light. there’s almost nothing to it, it just works. No browser, no apps, just book.
Check around your local walmart/target/walgreens etc, that have those photo labs/booths. Some have proper bulk photo scanners publicly available, and will (or you can) pass your photos through one and spit out a CD for fairly cheap (sub-$10 last I checked, but years ago).
AFAIK materialize.is is still active, but you need an invite, and I am not “in”, as it were, though I would like to be.
Reposting as top level comment also: these are PWDIS drives: if you’re not using them somewhere with sata 3.2/3.3, you need to use an adapter for the power plug, or some tape, to block pins 1-3 (3.3v) as supplying it to these causes them to reset. Might be worth doing the taping anyway, if you’re using an enclosure or cage (where you can’t use the adapters) Just be aware.