FlipStart 1.0

The FlipStart 1.0 is an ultra mobile PC that is much more like a mini laptop than its UMPC competitors. It has a large 5.6", 1024x600 display with a clamshell design that closes in the same way as a typical laptop, whereas other UMPCs, like the OQO Model 02, feature a sliding screen.

It is powered by a 1.1 GHz Intel Pentium M Ultralow Voltage CPU, has 512 MB of DDR2 RAM, and a 30 GB hard drive. This allows the FlipStart to power Windows Vista.

The FlipStart includes a mini QWERTY keyboard, an eraser nub mouse input, and a 1.5" touch pad. There are several shortcut keys including a "CTRL+ALT+DEL", and a "Show Desktop" button to help improve your productivity. There are very few inputs provided by the FlipStart with only a single USB 2.0 port and a headphone jack. There is an included VGA Webcam, and a port replicator that will give you a VGA, 2 USB, and an ethernet port. There is a second 2" external display that will display your email while the lid is closed.

In terms of connectivity, the FlipStart will make use of available WiFi or EV-DO Rev. A networks, and includes a Bluetooth capabilities for connecting compatible devices.

You can expect to get a few hours of battery life out of the battery before requiring to power down or connect the included AC adapter. The FlipStart weighs a mere 1.7 lbs, but is fairly bulky measuring 5.9" x 4.5" x 1.6". The FlipStart 1.0 retails for $699 with your choice of Windows XP or Windows Vista Business Edition.