Black Diamond unveiled the SwitchBack PC, staking claim as the world's first rugged UMPC (Ultra Mobile Personal Computer). Measuring 7.5" x 5.5" x 2", the SwitchBack is powered by an Intel Celeron M processor running at 1GHz.

The SwitchBack is equipped with 1GB of memory, and is capable of running Windows XP/CE/Mobile and even Linux. Targeted at those working in extreme environments, the UMPC is available in a magnesium housing and is reinforced with rubber isolators. In fact, it is designed to meet or in some cases even exceed military specifications (MIL-STD) for shock, extreme temperatures vibration and humidity.

To extend the functionality beyond a PC, the SwitchBack is capable of taking on extendable modules, which can be anything from fingerprint reader to digital camera to GPS receiver. The UMPC features a 5.6" LCD that can be viewed even in broad daylight. It offers a 1024x600 WSVGA resolution.

In order to extend the battery life, users can switch to Windows CE for simple tasks, while they can switch to Windows XP for more complex tasks. Other features include a removable hard drive and hot swappable battery.

The Black Diamond SwitchBack UMPC will be available in Q4 2006, initially bundled with Windows XP. The rugged UMPC weighs just 3 pounds. Pricing has not yet been released by the company. Check out tech specs in the extended entry.