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This page contains a single entry from the blog posted on September 26, 2006 10:42 PM.

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Black Diamond SwitchBack PC

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.

  • SwitchBack PC

  • Processor
    Intel 1.0 GHz Celeron M

    Operating System
    Genuine Windows XP, Windows Mobile, Windows CE, Linux

    Memory
    Up to1GB of 400MHz DDR2

    Storage
    40GB Removable HD (60GB Optional)

    Input Devices
    Touchscreen display with stylus
    Condensed QWERTY membrane keyboard
    Pointing Device

    Battery
    Hot Swappable Lithium Ion Battery
    (11.1V 4300mA/hr)
    Recharge and run unit from 9 to 28VDC input
    2 to 5 hours (standard battery)

    Display
    5.6" Sunlight Viewable LCD
    1024x600 WSVGA Resolution

    Graphics
    Onboard Intel GMA-900 Graphics Chipset

    Wireless
    Bluetooth 2.0
    WiFi b/g
    GPS (C/A) (Optional)

    Base System Input/Output
    1x USB 2.0
    1x Power Port
    1x Ethernet (Docking Station)
    1x VGA (Docking Station)
    Multi USB 2.0 (Docking Station)

    Physical Dimensions
    Dimensions: 7.5"x5.5"x2"
    Weight: 3 lbs