LX800
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Touchscreen-based CUPC-P80 UMPC just might double as a carputer
Comfile Technology's CUPC-P80 isn't quite a full-fledged UMPC, though it could definitely get away with posing as one. Realistically though, we suspect this one was engineered to control media and such within your vehicle. The 12v power system and the 10.2-inch display sure make it an ideal candidate for replacing that stock radio in your '87 Taurus, and while the 500MHz AMD Geode LX800 isn't potent enough to stream YouTube videos in high-def, it should be plenty to spin your latest Tears For Fears-filled playlist. Other specs include 512MB of RAM, an Ethernet port, 4GB of flash storage, three USB sockets and an SD card slot. The rig can be purchased now for $699 without an OS, or for $849 with Windows XP embedded.[Via Zedomax, thanks Max]
AMD has no plans for Geode successor, retirement party
You know that low-power Geode processor that powered a-many of OLPC XOs? Better stock up now, 'cause AMD isn't planning a proper successor. In the words of spokesman Phil Hughes: "There are no plans for a follow-on product to today's available AMD Geode LX products, but we expect to make this very successful processor available to customers as long as the market demands." Pretty straightforward if we should say so ourselves, but it'll be kind of weird with just VIA and Intel holding down the low-power CPU fort. According to Dean McCarron, president for Mercury Research, the Geode was "a nice niche market for [AMD]," but considering the current market, the chip maker is being forced to focus its efforts on fewer devices. It's been real, Geode -- way to go out on top.[Via HotHardware]
Data Evolution's $799 Cathena CX UMPC with swiveling screen
UMPCs have been branching out from the original (and oft frowned upon) design for some time now, as manufacturers look for tweaks that may hook customers that were previously turned off by the idea. Data Evolution's Cathena CX managed to mix a swiveling LCD into the small frame of a UMPC, and should also catch quite a few eyes with the "aggressive pricing." Internally, the unit features a 500MHz AMD Geode LX800 processor, 512MB of RAM, your choice of a 40GB, 80GB, or 100GB hard drive, a seven-inch WVGA touchscreen, 802.11b/g, and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR. Moreover, you'll find the usual QWERTY keyboard, touchpad, five-way joystick, audio in / out jacks, Ethernet, a pair of USB 2.0 connectors, VGA output, a four-in-one flash card reader, and a Li-ion battery that purportedly lasts up to five hours without needing a boost. The 2.2-pound machine comes standard with Windows XP, and best of all, can be snapped up for a reasonable $799 if you're cool with the basics.[Via LinuxDevices]
