GD GoBook MR-1

General Dynamics has quickly followed up on its earlier VR-2 with a new ultra-mobile PC, the GoBook MR-1. Labeled as one of the most compact fully rugged PCs to date, the 5.6-inch widescreen is small but still meets military-grade standards for extreme temperatures, shocks, and vibrations; it also meets separate tests for dust and water resistance. Its size still allows for the company's DynaVue touchscreen technology that cuts out on unwanted glare in broad daylight without consuming extra power or dulling the touch input.

The smallest of all GoBooks is also a full-fledged notebook, according to its creator. While most UMPCs rely on very specialized but slow processors, the MR-1 includes a 1.2GHz ultra-low voltage Core Solo often found in much larger systems. It also features a 40GB hard drive with the rare inclusion of a heater to let the drive head spin even in especially cold climates. A stock model ships with 512MB (up to 1GB) of RAM and a standard battery that runs for up to three hours.

Envisioned with pros and other particularly high-impact uses in the field, the MR-1 should be ready by September at a premium price of $4,450; options that add to the price include up to a 32GB solid-state flash drive, a 6-hour battery, and cellular Internet through EVDO for networks such as Sprint or Verizon.

By Electronista Staff