Technology Review: The Dauphin DTR-1, Desktop Power in a Small Package

Every now and again, a machine comes along that catches the eye and captures the imagination. Certainly, GRiD had done this several times, most recently (and finally) with its innovative Convertible. Another machine that falls into this category is the DTR-1 produced by Lombard Illinois-based Dauphin Technology.

The DTR-1, which stands for Desktop Replacement, is an interesting device that represents a good first attempt at a new class of computer. It features an 80486SLC processor running at 25 MHz, surrounded by a full complement of ports, interfaces, and built-in extras. All this in the smallest package we’ve seen packing such punch.

However, Dauphin may be slightly off their mark by positioning this as a true desktop replacement and not a companion device. In fact, the DTR-1 contains all the add-ons necessary to make it an ideal companion computer.

Made to be Mobile

The DTR-1 was clearly designed for people on-the-go. It comes with a leather portfolio case that safely stores the computer, the mini-keyboard, and accessories such as small cables and the pen. Taken together, the package is about the size of two stacked videocassettes.

The computer can be used on its own as a stylus-based tablet; or using the keyboard with the cleverly-designed leather case serving as a prop for the computer. Either way, the performance is crisp just as you would expect from a 486-based device. However, we found the keyboard to be too small for regular typing.

The DTR-1 comes pre-loaded with Microsoft’s Windows for Pen Computing which, with all its faults, is still the easiest system to link to the enterprise (assuming your office is Microsoft-based). However, the standard 20 or 40 MB hard drives are probably a bit small when running a reasonable set of Windows programs, even if they are installed in the minimum configuration.

Good Selection of Ports

The device is equipped with a rich set of ports, including a few not commonly found on other portable devices. In addition to the standard serial, parallel, and VGA ports, the DTR-1 comes with an optional RJ-45 (phone jack-like) Ethernet port and a Dauphin proprietary port for external IDE hard drives.

This proprietary port also doubles as the connector for the Dauphin-standard 3.5″ floppy disk drive. The DTR-1 is available with either a 20 or 40 MB hard disk drive to store applications and frequently used data.

The DTR-1 uses an untethered pen, which is usually the type preferred by mobile professionals. It is also reasonably slender and comfortable to hold. However, we are always disappointed when we find a device relying on an active pen needing batteries to operate.

Aside from adding to the size and weight of the pen, it makes this critical component a likely point of failure somewhere down the line. Though many pen computers use an active pen, manufacturers should seek an alternative technology as soon as possible.

Another quirk of the DTR-1 occurs when it’s time to change the computer’s main battery. The bridge battery, which should maintain enough power until you change the battery, is not functional in current units. This means that you have to save your work to disk first. We expect Dauphin to correct this problem in future updates of the machine.

An Impressive Effort

All said, the DTR-1 is a very innovative computer that features excellent performance with a rich set of features and options. It is solidly constructed and is cleverly positioned for people considering subnotebook class devices with desktop power.

However, Dauphin needs to improve the ergonomics of the DTR-1, including the keyboard and access to interface. Based on what we’ve seen, we’re eager to see Dauphin’s next generation DTR.

Dauphin Technology Inc.
377 E. Butterfield Rd. Suite 900
Lombard, Illinois, USA 60148
(708) 971-3400
(708) 971-8443 (fax)

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The Dauphin DTR-1

• Dimensions: 9″ x 5.5″ x 1.25″ (22.86 x 13.97 x 3.17 cm)
• Weight: 2.5 lbs (1.13 kg)
• CPU: 80486SLC, at 8 or 25 MHz
• Screen: 6″ (15.24 cm) diagonal, passive matrix backlit VGA
• Resolution: 640 x 480, 64 shades of grey
• Memory: 4MB expandable to 6 MB
• Storage: 20 or 40 MB hard disk
• Ports: 25-pin Centronics, 9-pin RS 232C, 15-pin SVGA analog, RJ-11 modem, Ethernet Twisted Pair RJ-45, AT/PS2 mini-DIN, proprietary port for IDE hard disk and Dauphin floppy drives
• AC Adapter: 90-230 VAC
• Battery: 7.2 V Ni-MH
• Pen: 3 cells, IEC #SR48