[Updated Apr. 30] — Data Evolution Corp (DEC), the company that recently aquired AMD's PIC (personal Internet computer) design, on April 26 announced its first ultra-mobile PC (UMPC). The Cathena CX is based on an AMD Geode LX800 processor, has a unique swiveling display, and is “aggressively priced,” the company said.

(Click for larger image of the Cathena CX UMPC)

DEC will offer the Cathena initially with Windows XP. However, a Linux option seems likely, given that the company supports both Linux and Windows CE on its DECtop product — which it acquired from AMD earlier this year. The company could not be reached by publication time.

Compared to most other UMPCs, the Cathena costs less and offers longer battery life — up to five hours, DEC said. However, it also offers less-than-typical processing power, being based on a 500MHz AMD LX800, the same ultra-low-powered x86-compatible SoC that powers the DECtop.

Additional touted features include a 7-inch, WVGA (800 x 480 resolution) LCD screen, and a QWERTY keyboard. The device targets “education programs,” according to the company.

Interestingly, Data Evolution introduced a Windows CE-powered notebook computer back in 2004; it, too, targeted the education market, along with government services.

Key features and specifications of the Cathena CX, according to the company, include:

• Processor — AMD Geode LX800, clocked at 500MHz
• Memory — 512MB SDRAM, expandable to 1GB
• Storage — built-in 40, 80, or 100GB hard drive
• Display:
  • 7-inch TFT WVGA (800 x 480) LCD
• User input devices:
  • Passive matrix touch-screen
  • Built-in touch pad
  • QWERTY keyboard
  • 5-way directional joystick
• Wireless:
  • Integrated 802.11b/g WiFi
  • Bluetooth 2.0+ with EDR
• Audio:
  • Built in stereo speakers
  • Audio in/out jacks
  • Volume control
• Other input/output ports:
  • Ethernet
  • 2 x USB 2.0
  • VGA video out (max. 1600×1200)
• Memory card reader (SD/MMC/MS/CF)
• Power — Li-Ion battery, approx. 5 hours operation
• Size — 8.6 x 6.4 x 1 inches (218 x 163 x 25.4mm)
• Weight — 2.2 lbs (990g)

Availability

The Cathena CX is currently available with a choice of Windows XP (Home or Pro) or Windows XP Embedded, and is priced from $799 (depending on options).

Additionally, reader Paul Mansfield suggests that the Cathena is also available as the Kohjinsha SA1F00V / SA1F00W. Discussion about running the devices under Linux can be found on the OpenEmbedded forum, here (and possibly elsewhere).

 
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