Transmeta (Semiconductor) (TMTA)

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More info on the Meta Pad from IBM Research Magazine. Bird, you will in particular enjoy this article, as it provides a lot more insight into the design, development and deployment of the meta pad concept.

http://www.research.ibm.com/thinkresearch/pages/2002/20020207_metapad.shtml


Core of Computing

Meta Pad slices and dices pervasive computing obstacles

By Thomas Staudter

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. . . Ocheltree's solutions to past design space constraints, such as piggybacking processor and memory chips as single modules instead of placing them apart on a circuit board, helped pave the way toward building a Meta Pad-sized computer, but other factors contributed to the process as well.
The utilization of a 5-gigabit disc drive, measuring only one and eight-tenths inches across, also helped shrink the computer's packaging a great deal. Advances in circuit board miniaturization, plus surface connect laminar technologies (driven by the work of cell phone designers), kept the Meta Pad's assembly package small and tight as well.
Low- and variable-power systems operations made possible by a Transmeta 5800 processor and four memory chips stacked in a single low-profile package-like a pancake-made the Meta Pad a bona fide computer. But rather than posit several accessory cables into such a small and elegant design, Ocheltree turned to a single docking connector comprising all the signals needed to connect I/O to a computer including mouse, keyboard, audio, video, USB and Card Bus. These could be plugged into a hand-held docking device — complete with visual display — or Meta Pad desktop dock, for use as a PC or laptop. . .

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. . ."The concept of personal computing 'anytime, anywhere, any way' is truly brought closer to reality by permitting the user's data and computing environments to be with them at all times, and available in many different forms or configurations," says Moulic.

"Information is only useful when you have access to it," Ocheltree continues, "The Meta Pad brings data closer to people; it allows individuals to interact with their data all the time. But the beauty of the Meta Pad is that it doesn't force you into any one interface; in fact, you don't have to give up what you're already comfortable with, whether it be a laptop, PC or whatever, to try out new interfaces.
And some of the new interfaces for computers will make the Meta Pad even more flexible and convenient. Imagine being able to use a speech interface with your Meta Pad while driving down the highway to access and answer your email. Or use a pen and pad accessory to process notes right into Windows programming. Or link your digital camera up to store photos on the spot. "Meta Pad eliminates transcription problems for those who need to bring their data from place to place," says Ocheltree. . .

regards, wsh