Computer Types (Form Factors) - UMPC's

Rugged UMPC's (Ultra Mobile Personal Computer)

Rugged UMPC's are the latest and newest type of mobile computer. Rugged UMPC's generally are used like Tablet PC's but they are even smaller and lighter. The smallest Tablet PC has an 8.4" display, whereas a rugged UMPC has a 4-5" display. A rugged UMPC differs from a rugged handheld PC or a PDA because it can and does run a full-blown Windows operating system, not a scaled down version.

Here is some information from Wikipedia on the UMPC form factor:
"Ultra-Mobile PCs have a 20 cm (7-inch) or smaller touch sensitive screen at a minimum resolution of 800 x 480. Windows XP Tablet PC Edition is used with slight tweaks to the interface to make it more suited for the small form factor. In addition, a software suite known as the Touch Pack Interface is included to make the interface more suitable for use of stylus as well as hand.

The Ultra-Mobile PC is just a platform for which manufacturers can design any model they want, provided they meet or exceed the baseline specifications laid down by Intel and Microsoft. However, the UMPC will be capable of running a full version of most PC operating systems. UMPCs with Windows XP installed will be able to run any software that has been written for the Windows XP platform, though the small form factor will mandate some changes to the interface. The standard Windows XP interface is the default, though a choice of having an interface more suited for the small form factor is available with the Touch Pack Interface. Due to the small size, most UMPCs do not feature a physical keyboard, but a virtual keyboard, known as DialKeys, is provided in the Touch Pack Interface. Also, since the device has standard USB 2.0 connectivity, external keyboards and mice can be attached."

A rugged UMPC is one that is designed for in-field, outdoor, tough environment or vehicular use. Rugged UMPC's are sealed against the outdoor elements and designed to handle shock (drops) and vibration. Rugged UMPC's also have daylight-viewable displays to maximize screen viewability even in direct sunlight.

Group Mobile Comment: Group Mobile currently carries two UMPC devices. These two offerings are fully-rugged and are offered from two well-known manufacturers, Panasonic (the Toughbook U1) and GD Intronix (the MR-1).

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