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SwitchBack, The Ultra-Mobile PC That Can Really Take a BeatingVery rugged, yet quite versatile |
By Alex Vochin, Technology Editor
30th of October 2007, 06:31 GMT
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Although UMPCs are not exactly the most popular computing systems out there, there are quite a lot of people who find these things quite useful, especially when working on the road or outdoors. And this one of the reasons that led to the development of the SwitchBack PC by Black Diamond Advanced Technology and its launch by Roper Mobile Technology Roper Industries (which purchased the initial developer), as this unit provides a very interesting set of features, including enhanced customization options.
The latest version of the
SwitchBack PC is the most powerful version yet. Operating on a Windows XP or Windows Vista platform, it utilizes a 1.0 GHz Intel Celeron M processor, 2GB of 400 MHz DDR2 and up to 120GB of optional storage. It has passed rigorous environmental testing and meets military specification MIL-STD-810F and IEC 60529 standard IP-67 for operating in conditions of extreme shock, vibration, temperature and immersion.
Furthermore, the device features a condensed QWERTY keyboard, removable hard drive, hot swappable battery and a 5.6-inch WSVGA sunlight viewable touch screen with stylus. Wireless capabilities like Bluetooth 2.0 and Wi-Fi b/g are standard and GPS can be integrated.
And since we're on the subject of integration, it's worth mentioning the fact that the SwitcBack includes a special feature, namely the BackPack technology, which allows users to incorporate multiple devices into a single BackPack such as a digital camera, biometric security, an RFID reader or any combination of I/O options. The BackPack (standard or custom) attaches onto the back of the SwitchBack and interfaces to the computer through a special ultra-wide, high-speed connection to the Switchback. For now, the company's offering a Standard BackPack, which includes the following connectivity options: Type II PCMCIA, USB 2.0 Port, Serial Port, VGA output, Audio Line In and Audio Line out.
"Over the last year, we have experienced an overwhelmingly positive market response to the SwitchBack PC and its unique modular design. The SwitchBack is now exploding onto the market and our first customers have been pleased with the technology and service we are providing," said Justin Dyster, Vice President of Engineering at Roper Mobile Technology. "Our BackPack initiative is already a success, with many customers placing orders for the Standard BackPack and with several more in military markets ordering Custom BackPacks or working with us to develop their own."
Although the company has announced that the SwitchBack is shipping, the possible customers will have to contact Roper Mobile Technology for personalized pricing information.
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