San Francisco-based OQO (pronounced 'oh-q-oh') has showcased its Ultra Personal Computer (uPC), a product that is likely to set the trend in terms of mobility and flexibility. Expected in the second half of this year, the uPC is a fully functioning Windows XP-based PC that measures 22.8x86.3x22.8mm and weighs just 397g, making it the smallest device to offer full PC functionality.
Pros: Diminutive; good connectivity options; runs Windows XP
Cons: USB 1.1; no NIC as standard; suspect battery life
Similar in size to a PDA, but with the power and features of an entry-level ultraportable laptop, OQO's uPC is truly innovative. What's so appealing about a PC of this diminutive size is that you can carry it around with you, using it as a productivity device in the office and an entertainment device at home. And because it runs Windows XP, you needn't have to worry about software incompatibilities with the programs you use on a daily basis.
Hardware specifications of the uPC are equally impressive. It's based on a 1GHz Transmeta Crusoe processor, 256MB of RAM, a 20GB hard disk and a 5in. Wide-VGA TFT transflective screen. Resolutions are supported up to 800x480 pixels and a 57-key thumb keyboard with mouse buttons are built-in for data entry and navigation. There's also a wheel on the side panel of the computer which scrolls the screen, plus the screen can slide over the keyboard to turn it into a PDA.
Built-in connectivity options include 802.11b, Bluetooth, FireWire, USB 1.1 and a 3.5mm headphone jack, although there is the option to add additional USB 1.1 and FireWire ports and a 10Base-T Ethernet NIC. Power is provided by a removable Lithium-polymer battery which should last between two and six hours depending on the applications being run, according to OQO.
The uPC runs the full version of Windows XP, so standard Windows XP applications are supported. This should reduce solution development time as well as remove the headache associated with trying to synchronise other mobile devices, according to OQO. And as the uPC supports industry standard connectivity options, including Bluetooth, USB and FireWire, you can add popular peripherals - including a printer, conventional keyboard and full-sized monitor. With the supplied docking cable the uPC is no different than a laptop in its ability to connect to projectors and Ethernet networks.
BIOS, Jan 14, 04 | Print | Send | Comments (0)
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