Friday, May 15, 2009

WEARABLE COMPUTERS

The Economic Times

In 1998 Seiko marketed the Ruputer - a computer in what was a fairly large wristwatch but to mediocre returns. But that seemed to be an indication of the times to come. A little later Hitachi teamed up with Xybernaut, which specialized in developing wearable technology.

The world of the wearable computers has only expanded since. The latest to join the gang is the W200 from Glacier Computer.

The foundation of the product is built on rugged, full powered industrial PC systems that are durable and reliable, according to the Glacier Computer website.

The bracelet type computer will not just do away with the need of a watch. It features a future oriented 3.5-inch touchscreen with backlit keyboard. The GPS and Wi-Fi enabled computer will be based on Windows CE or/and Linux OS.

For people who need more than the GPS, an electronic compass and motion sensors will be attached to the device.

The W200 is made of a reinforced magnesium alloy, which maximizes strength and minimizes overall weight. At only 10.2 ounces and shaped to the contours of the arm, the W200 combines the same features of a standard computer with a device that provides the convenience and ergonomics of a wrist worn instrument.

The W200 boasts a 3.5” color display with touch screen, backlit keyboard and a hot swappable battery pack. The wireless functions of the W200 ensure continuous connectivity regardless of the user's location with plug and play Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS modules.

Using the Windows CE or Linux operating systems, the unit can be quickly configured to access any remote host system through integrated wired or wireless interfaces.

The hands-free operation of the W200 overcomes the physical limitations associated with normal hand-held computers. This allows users complete freedom to continue everyday activities using both hands while having full computer access at all times.

In addition to an electronic compass, the system also integrates the latest and most innovative features, such as a tilt and silent reckoning, which allows critical battery savings when the unit is not in use.

Such device would tend to rock especially for companies that are implementing management information and data collection systems No wonder, so many companies are ramping up the portability aspect of the personal computing word. In 2001 IBM developed and publicly displayed two prototypes for a wristwatch computer running Linux.

The last we heard from them was that the device would cost about $250 but it is still under development. In 2002 Fossil, Inc. announced the Fossil Wrist PDA, which ran the Palm OS.

Its release date was set for summer of 2003, but was delayed several times and was finally made available on January 5, 2005. Timex Datalink is another example of a practical wearable computer. Hitachi launched a wearable computer called Poma in 2002.

Eurotech – also has an offering in this space - the ZYPAD. It is a wrist wearable touch screen computer with GPS, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and which can run a number of custom applications.

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