Most readers know about the VIA NanoBook UMD reference design. This design is a good start but what do you think about a manufacturer offering a modular designed UMPC? Have you thought about the benefits of an OEM providing a whitebox UMPC that local resellers can easily customize? Or maybe the customization is best when done by the consumer?
Step back to the original open system designs of the IBM 5150 Personal Computer and consider a similar idea for the UMPC. The 5150 was an assembly of readily available components. Is it possible to use off-the-shelf components to build a UMPC?
How would you assemble the perfect UMPC?
My perfect Ultra Mobile PC is a modular design - so that I can replace the processor after newer and faster models are available; a means to easily change the hard drive; expansion slots to add future features; plenty of USB ports to add devices; and a modular screen capable of being changed. I picture a case capable of allowing me to open and snap-in an array of devices. Other devices can snap-on to the outside.
Imagine snap-in devices for your UMPC. Imagine being able to change your UMPC as easily as you can change your clothes. Imagine thinking beyond the box. Now, you are imagining the perfect UMPC system.
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