The most exciting area of computing has always been micro technology. Making what is large today into smaller, more usable forms has driven many advances in the computer industry. In the last fifteen years, computers have moved from the desktop to the laptop and notebook computers have become the computer of choice for most people. However, as small as they have become, notebook computers are still not small enough for many specialized uses and users. I have always been fascinated by handheld sized computers. Not necessarily the handhelds that reduce the functionality of a computer to a basic subset, but handhelds that have the full capability of the current, full-sized versions. I still own, and occasionally use, an IBM PC110 and Toshiba Libretto 70. For those who do not know, the IBM PC110 was the world’s smallest 486 computer (the size of a paperback book) and the Toshiba Libretto was the smallest Pentium 1 computer (the size of a VHS video cassette). Both were complete computers with color screens, keyboards, mouse pointer, docking stations, etc. running full versions of Windows. Now a revolutionary handheld, from San Francisco-based OQO, brings the current level of computing power into the world’s smallest Windows XP computer.

First shown in January 2004 and released in October 2004, the OQO model 01 is an amazing piece of technology. With the recent release of the model 01+, the OQO has evolved into an even more useful device. Led by CEO Jory Bell (one of the primary designers of the Apple G3 and Titanium PowerBooks) and his team, OQO is at the forefront of handheld computing. The design of the model 01+ features many advanced technologies such as a custom, secondary CPU that emulates many of the large, bulky ICs and components in a standard computer so it can deliver its performance and capabilities in a micro-form-factor. Primarily focused on the Enterprise market, I expect OQO to bring the model 01+ and / or its technology to the mass-market in the future.

Let’s start by taking a look at the basic features of the model 01+:
1GHz Transmeta Crusoe CPU
30GB hard drive (shock-mounted)
512MB DDR RAM
Dimensions: 4.9” x 3.4” x .9”
Weight: 14 ounces
800 x 480 W-VGA 5” trans-reflective display (indoor/outdoor readable)
3D accelerated graphics with 8mb video RAM
QWERTY thumb keyboard with mouse buttons and TrackStik pointer
802.11b wireless
Bluetooth wireless
4-pin FireWire (1394)
USB 2.0
3.5mm stereo headphone jack
Microphone
Digital pen
Screen rotation support
Network boot (PXE) support
Removable lithium polymer battery
Battery life up to three hours, depending on usage

OQO docking cable includes:
3D accelerated 1280 x 1024 VGA video output
Additional USB port
Additional FireWire (1394) port
Ethernet port
DC power
Audio out jack

Additional features include: Active hard drive protection that safely parks hard drive heads upon detecting freefall, a screen that slides on rack and pinion mechanism to reveal thumb keyboard, Shift - Control - Function and Alt keys that have smart-lock with LED indicators, Thumbwheel that allows for traditional scrolling as well as enhanced features and an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts backlight to appropriate level.

Included accessories:
Power cord
Universal AC Power Supply with Auto / Air Adapter
Docking cable
Desktop stand
Digital pen
Carrying sleeve
Quick Start Guide
System Restore CD

Optional accessories:
Double Capacity Battery
Belt Clip Carrying Case
Stronghold Metal Carrying Case
VGA Adapter
Battery Charging Clip
Screen Protectors

The previous model 01 had most of the same basic features except:
20GB hard drive (shock mounted)
256MB DDR RAM
USB 1.1
No Built-in Internal PC Speaker
No Auto / Air Adapter for the Power Supply
No Screen rotation support
No network boot (PXE) support

The screen slides up on a rack and pinion system to reveal the keyboard. The mechanical rack and pinion system should allow for years of smooth operation.

The front of the OQO is comprised of:
a. WiFi and Bluetooth Antennas (one on each side)
b. 5 inch, 800 x 480 Screen
c. Pen-based Digitizer
d. FireWire port
e. Mouse Buttons
f. TrackStik pointing device
g. Microphone



The right side and bottom of the OQO features:
h. Battery Fuel Gauge built into the back of the battery
i. Power Connector
j. Docking Connectors
k. Multi-function thumbwheel
l. USB Port
m. Digital Pen storage slot
n. WiFi / Bluetooth Antenna
o. Removable battery
p. Audio Jack

The small, round connector in the middle of the bottom edge is only used for testing during the manufacturing process. It has been removed from the model 01+. The small, oval button in the middle of the right side is the Battery Ejection button.

The model 01+ screen is bright and easy on the eyes. With its ambient light sensor that allows the model 01+ to self-adjust the brightness, the 5” trans-reflective screen is sharp and clear. Most people will not have any viewing problems with the model 01+. The 800 by 480 resolution of the screen is non-standard for most computers and many software applications. While most applications can work in this resolution, you may have some difficulties with fixed-size windows such as option boxes that extend off the bottom of the screen and make it difficult to select the “OK” and “Cancel” buttons. Check the applications you want to run on the model 01+ to make sure they are compatible to the screen resolution. The model 01+ also features a screen rotation capability allowing the user to work in portrait or landscape modes. Of course this is only practical with an external keyboard and mouse or software that can function only with the digitizing pen.

The CPU in the model 01+ is the 1GHz Transmeta Crusoe processor. While some may think this is a little slow, the model 01+ is the fastest computer in its class. Usable speed will depend on your application and most Windows programs, such as Word and Excel, run fine with no lag or slow performance. The 512MBs of RAM does help quite a bit and, as with any computer, performance will depend on the system requirements of the application. I have only found a few programs, such as Microsoft Streets and Trips, which runs slowly on the Transmeta. I am sure that the engineers at OQO had to take many technical issues into account, such as speed, heat, power, and size, when choosing the processor for the model 01+. With all the processor demands of Windows XP, the model 01+ may not be a “speed demon”, but I have no complaints about how effective I could be running full Windows applications on a handheld device. Maybe a faster hard drive would be nice, but leave it to say, the model 01+ is faster than any other computing device that I can hold in my hand and carry in my pocket.

The model 01+ features a membrane-style keyboard with numeric keypad. Each key has a tactical click when pressed. This gives the keys a nice feel when pressed. The keys are obviously small, so users with large finger may have some difficulty using the keyboard accurately. The keyboard has LEDs and “sticky key” features for the Shift, FN, Ctrl, and Alt keys to make it easier to use since it is not a “full” keyboard like most computer or notebook keyboards. It is impractical to expect to type at close to the same speed as you would on a standard keyboard, most people would type on the model 01+ using both thumbs, but with practice it is easy to become comfortable with it. I have written two reviews using the model 01+ and my speed has improved significantly. If you have used the track pointer on an IBM or Toshiba notebook, then you know how the TrackStik works and feels. Simply place your finger on the stick and push it in the direction you want the mouse pointer to move. The harder you press, the faster the pointer moves. The mouse buttons are on the left side of the keyboard. An undocumented feature of the TrackStik is the ability to press down on it for a left-mouse click instead of using the mouse button. In order to activate this feature, type “FN+CTL+z” on the keyboard. Thanks to Baochi Nguyen at OQO for this tip. The TrackStik configuration is designed for right-handed users and, unfortunately, a left-handed configuration is not available. As with any computing device, the model 01+ does generate heat and can become very warm, but it seems to be more cooling efficient than the original model 01. Care should be given to not blocking the airflow vents. The lower left corner of the model 01+ does get warmer than the rest of the body, so I would suggest not holding the model 01+ too tightly in your hands. The cooling fan speed can be set in the OQO Settings, but I recommend keeping the setting at its highest cooling level.

A Multi-Function Thumbwheel is located at the bottom side of the model 01+ on the right. This is placed for the right thumb. Pushing down on the Thumbwheel allows you to select the function and rotating the wheel will adjust the function. The choice of functions can be selected from the OQO Manager and include horizontal scroll, vertical scroll, and volume. A double-click of the Thumbwheel will bring up the application switcher / launcher. The Thumbwheel makes an effective addition to the keyboard and TrackStik. I was comfortable with the placement of all the controls and ports, but would have preferred a different location for the headphone jack since this is where the right hand is normally placed and is a little uncomfortable when I want to work while listening to MP3s on my headphones. One thing that I would have appreciated on the model 01+ is a hard drive access indicator; however there are software options for this. A couple of freeware programs are available which will place a hard drive activity indicator on the Windows Task Bar.

Along the top of the model 01+ is the storage slot for the Digitizing Pen. The model 01+ features an improved digitizing screen, which requires using the pen since it is not a “touch” screen. The pen does not have to physically touch the screen since the digitizing components, that are built-in the frame of the screen, detect and track the position of the pen. Only a model 01+ or Wacom Pen is compatible with the digitizing screen, so you cannot use your favorite PDA pen or stylus. Exercise care when using the pen and do not press down hard on the screen as it is made of a flexible layer on the surface that can be damaged. The digitizing screen translates the location of the pen into coordinates for the mouse pointer. This is useful for applications where pointing and mouse-clicking are the main interaction. Gently tapping the screen with the pen is equivalent to a left-mouse button click. The pen has a recessed button that is used for a right-mouse button click. If you plan to use the pen extensively, I would suggest applying a “screen protector” to protect the screen. The Digitizing Pen is best suited for custom enterprise applications. Again, keep in mind that this is not a touch-screen and that Wacom tablet technology is normally designed for the pen to be at a 90 degree angle to the screen. While this may not be a normal angle for most people when using a pen to write, the model 01+ is not a handwriting recognition device. Think of the digitizing pen more as a substitution for a mouse than as a pen.

The model 01+ features built-in 802.11b WiFi as well as Bluetooth. Both work very well, but the range may be slightly reduced, compared to a desktop or notebook computer, due to the compact nature of the model 01+ and its components. I have had 4 Bluetooth devices paired and functioning simultaneously with the model 01+. The WiFi works very well, but the range will vary based on the signal quality and strength of the access point and the surrounding environment. One suggestion would be to avoid putting your hands directly over the antennas.

In addition to the normal hardware drivers for video, sound, etc., the model 01+ includes utilities for screen rotation and OQO Settings. The OQO Settings utility allows the user to adjust settings such as cooling fan speed, Thumbwheel functions and applications, and screen cleartype.

Sony PSP / OQO model 01+ / H.P. iPAQ 3115

The model 01+ battery is removable and replaceable. Replacement / additional batteries can be ordered from OQO. As with any battery-powered computer, the time on a full charge will vary based on usage and settings. The battery can power the model 01+ for up to 3 hours depending on usage and settings. I generally averaged about 2.25 hours with all settings on or at its highest level. A second battery would be a good investment and for those with a need for more than 5 hours, OQO has a new double capacity battery arriving in January 2006. The back of the battery features four white LEDs that indicate the power level in the battery. Simply push the recessed button to check the battery level. The power gauge work even when the battery is detached from the model 01+.

The model 01+ comes with a complete set of accessories including the Docking Cable. Rather than use an expensive, bulky docking station, OQO designed the Docking Cable. Starting at one end with the docking connectors that plug into the bottom of the model 01+ and ending with a VGA video monitor connector, all the connectors for Ethernet, USB, audio, FireWire, and DC Power are arranged in a linear fashion along the cable. Other accessories, such as carrying cases, battery power adapter, VGA adapter, etc., are available from OQO.

The model 01+ is a nice evolution of the original model 01. With the performance increase achieved by doubling the RAM, a larger hard drive, better digitizing screen performance, faster speed of USB 2.0, auto/air feature of the universal power supply, and even an internal PC speaker, the model 01+ is much more capable than the model 01. I am amazed that the OQO team was even able to squeeze a PC Speaker into the Model 01 platform.

The OQO model 01+ is a truly amazing handheld computer and has won many awards for technical excellence and advanced mobility. Easy to use and featuring all the capabilities of a full-sized computer, it gives the mobile power users the opportunity to be completely computer efficient and effective on the go. In the future, we hope to have additional “hands-on” articles about the keyboard, software applications, GPS Navigation, gaming, and more.

Pros
Small size
Good performance
Integrated WiFi and Bluetooth
Docking Cable
Good battery life
Excellent screen with Ambient Light Sensor

Cons
Not upgradeable
Small keys
800 x 480 screen resolution

Reviewed by:

Harvey Lee
-Senior Technology Editor

Product: OQO model 01+ Ultra Mobile Computer
Manufacturer: OQO
Web Site: http://www.oqo.com
Category: Laptop / Portable Computer - Windows
Price: model 01+ $1,899 with Windows XP Home
$1,999 with Windows XP Pro
Add $300 for Office 2003 Small Business Edition Installed
2 / 3 year Extended Warranty Available ($179 / $249)
Availability: Now