Compaq Computer researchers have developed a
Linux-based handheld computer called the Itsy.
Researchers in the computing giant's Palo Alto,
California, lab modified the open-source operating
system for use in a device that's slightly smaller than
a PalmPilot, according to Compaq.

The machine uses a 200-MHz StrongARM processor and has a 320-by-200 pixel screen. It also comes with a microphone, speaker, and infrared port.

Researchers in the computing giant's Palo Alto, California, lab modified the open source operating system for use in a device that's slightly smaller than a PalmPilot, according to Compaq spokesman Gary Frazier.

Itsy is described at a Compaq Web site. The device has a touch screen and a few buttons. Not only does it run personal digital assistant software such as email, but also it plays the popular video game Doom, with the player navigating through the video game universe by tilting the Itsy forward and back. Compaq calls the system "rock 'n' scroll."

Overview

Itsy is a research project done by the Western Research Lab, and Systems Research Center in Palo Alto, CA. The Itsy project is one of several research projects at Compaq that are related to pocket computing.

The goal of the Itsy project is to learn about issues relating to the development of small devices: power management, user interface issues, networking, and the development of applications for small devices. There are a number of other projects, some within Compaq and others outside of Compaq, that are addressing similar issues to those we are addressing.

The Itsy prototype (see the image to the right) offers considerably more computing power and memory than other PDAs, enabling demanding applications such as speech recognition. It is designed as an open platform to facilitate innovative research projects. The base Itsy hardware provides a flexible interface for adding a custom daughtercard, and Itsy software is based on the Linux OS and standard GNU tools.

Thie Itsy Web Site

On the Itsy web site, you will find copies of the slides that we used in some recent talks. You will also find some documents that describe the Itsy prototype, and some answers to frequently asked questions. Finally, there are some links to other information on the web that is related to the work we are doing.

VISIT THE ITSY PROJECT

http://www.research.digital.com/wrl/itsy/

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