Expansion room: Small, portable, rugged computer

By Control Engineering Staff January 9, 2007
A rugged portable computer from Acme Portable Machines Inc. has internal space for application-specific customizing, an Intel T2500 2 GHz Core Duo processor, and minimum of 512 MB memory (expandable to 2 GB).

Azusa, CAAcme Portable Machines Inc . announced availability of a rugged portable computer about the size of a fat attache case, with plenty of internal space for application-specific customizing. FLP-200 has an Intel T2500 2 GHz Core Duo processor backed by a minimum of 512 MB memory (expandable to 2 GB). It’s said to be ideal for applications such as testing, data logging, and video recording for seismic, flight line, in-flight, and factory floor environments where the power and flexibility of a desktop is required. Providing two full-length internal slots for 32-bit PCI cards and one mini-PCI connector, the portable allows a user to customize the system for a specific application without adding an expansion chassis or case. Dual Lithium ion batteries provide 100 W output power and 190 Watthours of capacity, roughly three times that of a conventional notebook, and batteries are hot-swappable for continuous operation. It also uses 120 V or 220 V power and can recharge batteries while operating from external power.

A 100-GB hard drive is included and space is provided for an additional pair of hot-swappable RAID drives of that size. The base system also includes a DVD-RW drive; Firewire, four USB 2.0 ports, and Ethernet connections up to 1000 base Tx for communications; a full-size keyboard; and a 15-in. anti-glare LCD screen. Total package size is 12.75 x 16.5 x 6.5 in. (325 x 420 x 165 mm); weight is 20 lb (9 kg) with the standard dual batteries. Price with 512 MB memory, one 100 GB disk, and dual-battery pack is $3,999.

Control Engineering Daily News Desk
Mark T. Hoske