What is an ultra-mobile computer?

Ultra-mobile personal computer (Ultra-Mobile PC or UMPC) is a type of computing device designed to provide a traditional PC-style experience in a very small and portable package. There is no widely agreed definition for devices that fit into this category, but are generally smaller than a laptop and larger than a smartphone, with a screen size in the range of about 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm). They are most often equipped with a traditional PC operating system and can use a keyboard, touch screen or both to enter.

The Ultra-Mobile PC category was created in 2006 by Microsoft ™ and several of its hardware partners to bridge the gap in size and performance between smartphones and laptops. Like laptops, UMPCs are capable of many different purposes and have much in common with a desktop computer. Many use slightly modified versions of traditional PC operating systems. As with many smartphones, UMPCs can sacrifice functions such as performance and ergonomIE in the interest of maximum portability.

There is no standard metric for exactly what is an ultra-mobile PC, although most have a touch screen between 4 and 8 inches (10 to 20 cm). The oldest devices sold according to the term had a screen of about 7 inches (17.8 cm) across, but since then larger and smaller devices have been released. UMPCs may overlap with other types of computing devices; Very small UMPCs can be approximately the same size as a smaller product known as a mobile Internet device, while larger products may look similar to tablets and netbooks.

One feature that can distinguish ultra-mobile computers from other devices is the ability to use traditional PC operating systems. While smartphones, tablets and other devices often work on specially created software platforms, UMPC generally operates the same type of operating system on the notebookand Plošepcs. The first device to be launched according to the term used in Windows® XP with other software to facilitate touch screen input, while more current UMPC can run Windows Vista, Windows® 7 or Linux version.

UMPC design is very different; The only common attributes are generally a small track and lightweight weight. The ultra-mobile computer can use a touch screen, keyboard, aiming device such as a joystick or some combination for input. They can contain a sliding keyboard similar to smartphone, mini-table design, or setting the clamshell found in traditional notebooks. Most functional internal storage and a wide range of standard connection options such as Ports Universal Serial Bus (USB) and Wi-Fi® network.

Although the idea of ​​Ultra-Mobile PC was met with the initial enthusiasm from industrial commentators, real products have encountered lukewarm reaction. Critics pointed to high costs, relatively poor pounds and difficulty usedIt as the main obstacles in the adoption of the mass market. Starting at the end of 2008, the ultra-mobile computer began to overshadowed netbooks, tablets and other devices. UMPCs are still manufactured as niche devices, but never impart the attention of mainstream consumers.