Grid Intros Convertible at Comdex

Grid Systems introduced at Comdex a new combination notebook and pen computer called the Grid Convertible, and started off with a glowing endorsement from Microsoft’s Bill Gates, who was anxious to promote the virtues of Windows for Pens. Gates praised the machine as the “most accessible portable notebook to date, seamlessly integrating a pen with full function notebook computer capability.”

The Convertible is an ingeniously designed machine, with the LCD digitizer screen collapsing on top of the keyboard if you want to use the machine as a pen system, and the screen elevating and rotating 90 degrees in relation to the keyboard, when you want to use the machine as a laptop. The convertible uses the 25 MHz 80386SL CPU and includes a PCMCIA expansion slot as well as a 125 MB hard disk. The machine is encased in magnesium, making it suitable for rugged use outdoors.

On the down side, the convertible weighs close to six pounds, which, in our experience, is a bit heavy for continuous use as a pen system when standing up (Grid also offers a 2.8 lb. PalmPAD model for users who are always on their feet). However, many users will find the combination of keyboard and pen interfaces to be very convenient, allowing the user the flexibility of the keyboard when space permits, and the convenience of the pen when necessary.

The Convertible starts at $3495 and is available immediately through Grid’s direct sales force and will be sold through retail channels starting in early 1993. Contact:

Grid Systems
9 Village Circle, Suite 150
Westlake, TX 76262
817-491-5200
Fax: 817-491-5952