PI Announces Its Infolio System

Last issue we provided the overview; here are the details

In our previous issue (Vol. 1, No. 4), we described the strategy PI Systems (Portland, OR) has mapped out for entering the pen-based computer market. Since then, the company has released specific details of its unique and very interesting system called “Infolio.” We’ve also had a chance to sit down and use the Infolio computer — and we’re impressed. It’s fast, the graphics are very good, and the device is lightweight and attractive.

The Infolio is a pen-based computer that integrates hardware and custom software for mobile data collection, information management, and database connectivity. The actual computer has a 9 by 10 by 1.2 inches “clipboard” form factor, weighs less than 3 pounds, and has a monochrome 640 by 480 reflective VGA display (a backlit version will available early next year). The system runs on six standard AA-sized alkaline or nickel cadmium rechargeable batteries for up to 12 hours of typical use. It has a 3-year lithium backup battery that powers main memory and the pen uses a standard button cell battery.

The main system controller is a Motorola 68331 processor (a variant of the 68020), a MC68HC705 controller handles power management, an Intel 80C51 controls the digitizer, and the Hitachi 63484 graphics processor manages the GUI. The digitizer is the CalComp 3D with its wireless pen. The Infolio sports 1 Mbyte of ROM for the operating system and base applications, 0.5 Mbyte internal SRAM for maintaining system state, and has three memory card expansion slots for SRAM or ROM for user data, customization modules, and applications.

For connectivity, the Infolio has an internal RS232C connector for a factory-installed modem or custom communications links, an external RS232C port for host connectivity, and an external 96-pin expansion bus for the docking module or custom peripherals. The docking module is a deskbound unit that connects to the host for data transfer and power charging.

The system comes with built-in ROM-resident software, including a text editor, sketchpad, address book, handwriting recognition application with trainer, and a scribbler pad for capturing cursive handwriting.

PI will provide software development kits (SDKs) that run on either a Macintosh or PC. (It’s interesting that internal development tools are Sun-based; most of the software was developed on SPARCstations. Of the Mbyte of code PI wrote, only 50 Kbytes (less than 0.5 percent) is specific to the particular platform — Infolio, SPARCStation, or PC.)

The complete system will sell for less than $2000 (perhaps as low as $1500) and be available in the first quarter of 1992. For a detailed description of the PI software architecture co-written by PI’s vice president of software development and vice president of engineering, see the upcoming December 1991 issue of Dr. Dobb’s Journal.

PI Systems
10300 S.W. Greenburg Rd. #500
Portland, OR 97035
503-293-9585