Wearables

Glacier's W200 Wearable Computer

The W200 wearable computer
The W200 wearable computer

April 10, 2009 While laptops have ushered in the era of mobile computing, their form factor still dictates the need to use a desk, table or lap. Other handheld units are easier to use on the move but would be even better if we had another appendage, given that one hand is rendered useless through the need to hold the device. The solution - wear your computer. This example for Glacier Computer - the new Ridgeline W200 wearable computer - combines the same features of a standard computer with a device that straps to the wrist to provide hands-free operation while retaining full access at all times.

Running the Windows CE or Linux operating systems the W200 boasts a 3.5” 320 x 240 resolution color display with touch screen, backlit keyboard and a hot swappable battery pack. The integrated wired or wireless interfaces including plug and play Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS modules ensure continuous connectivity to access a remote host system. In addition to an electronic compass, the system also boasts power saving features such as a tilt and dead reckoning system which puts the device into standby when it detects the arm is hanging down beside the user’s body. Weighing just 10.2 ounces, (290 grams), and shaped to fit the contours of the arm the rugged W200 includes 128MB of Flash and 128MB of RAM memory and is water resistant.

The W200 from Glacier Computers is designed to appeal to emergency services, security, defense, field logistics or any area that requires access to large amounts of information while keeping as many hands free as possible. Plus wearing it might make people think you’ve been sent on a very important mission from the future – either that or you’ve been feeding your watch steroids.

Darren Quick

Via engadget

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4 comments
Racqia Dvorak
Pip Boy 3000, anyone?
Gadgeteer
Wouldn't a neoprene wristband for an iPhone be a lot cheaper and more versatile? Windows CE doesn't have anywhere near as many applications. Not to mention lighter, with at least 64x more storage and a higher resolution screen.
jamestreee
This is why one would choose the Linux OS (instead of Windows CE)... It is far superior and your options/capabilities are much more vast. This, of course, does depend on which distribution would be chosen...
Facebook User
These are better than any other wearable comps I\'ve seen! I\'ve seen software from Vocollect consultants that would also add some voice recognition to it.