(see "Proposed `Soldier's Computer' Holds Commercial Promise," August 1991 Microbytes, page 30)
Texas Microsystems originally envisioned a computer that would let foot soldiers view images on a heads-up display. That vision evolved into a rugged, 3-pound, hand-held PC. Company officials say they will continue to investigate new head-mounted-display technologies. However, they add that technologies such as Reflection Technology's Private Eye display don't support high-enough resolutions and couldn't withstand the extreme environmental conditions of a battlefield.
Texas Microsystems ((713) 541-8200; E-mail sales@texmicro.com) plans to release a Windows-based commercial version of the system (
see the photo
) this year. Initial plans
called for a 486DX2 processor running at 75 MHz on nickel-metal-hydride batteries with 8 to 10 hours of battery life.
BYTE saw a preliminary version of the unit, and its transflective 6-inch VGA LCD display was easily readable in sunlight. For global positioning and other applications, the system provides two PC Card slots. Shock resistance is rated at 20 g's (about a 3-foot drop).
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