Vulcan FlipStart option to uPC-omputing
Following our article on the OQO Model 01, we explored further the commercial (or at least for the not-too-distant future) offerings of such utra-small PC’s and came up with the Vulcan FlipStart.
(Yes, we know that there are several uPC’s by Sony and JVC as well - we are concentrating on those that are or will be commercially available outside of Japan without resorting to specialty imports. For those, we recommend Dynamism.com - please send our hellos to them when you visit.)
Similar in dimensions except weight (1lb.) with the OQO offering, it however differentiates itself in one way by being a clamshell design rather than the Model 01’s sliding keyboard. Working specs are almost the same, with the FlipStart having Bluetooth as an option compared to Model 01’s built-in solution. However, the WLAN on the FlipStart is dual-band 802.11b/g, and it has a built-in 1.3-megapixel camera which can be a purchase deciding factor especially for highly-mobile professionals such as insurance claims agents and realtors.
We are rather impressed with the keyboard layout and especially what Vulcan calls its LID™ Module - a small external touchscreen that allows for multiple functions including reading your email without opening up the main screen. Very handy and very-PDA.
For the first time, I’m actually convinced that most mobile workers will be able to leave their heavier notebooks behind and use one of these devices.
- comments Keith Shaw, Network World Wireless Computing Devices Newsletter
We are, too. No prices or launch dates for the Vulcan FlipStart as of this time.