Wireless News (20/10/02)

DESKTOP EXPERIENCE FOR LAPTOP USERS

Unlike similar products that serve as stands for laptop computers and connect to a separate monitor, the Oyster uses the existing laptop screen and works on nearly all models.

Laptop users who want to convert their machines to desktop computers have an innovative option with the Oyster from Tcom International, which has put the focus on ergonomics.

The Oyster is a docking and cable management product that allows users to set up their laptops vertically on the desk, with the screen at eye level, and attach a full-size keyboard.

Using an integrated USB (universal serial bus) hub, the Oyster conceals all cables for keyboard, mouse, power supply, printer and Internet connections in its rear storage bay, which also accommodates wireless technology for peripheral connections.

Saving Desktop Space

"With our product you can elevate the laptop monitor and work in a more comfortable position, and [it] takes all of the cables out of the way," explained Tcom spokesperson Steven Purcell.

Unlike similar products that serve as stands for laptop computers and connect to a separate monitor, the Oyster uses the existing laptop screen and works on nearly all models, he told NewsFactor.

Priced at about US$180, the device is aimed primarily at mobile professionals and others working in tight quarters. Purcell suggested that the Oyster could find a home on college campuses, where students often use their laptops on dorm room desks after toting them to and from class.

Questionable for Business?

Business users could use the Oyster to transform their laptops into presentation displays for small groups, the company claims, and it may also be a benefit for those in home-office situations.

However, Gartner analyst Leslie Fiering said the Oyster probably will not gain a large following among business users and questioned whether the product's USB hub will support network feeds, such as Ethernet connections.

Docking Capability

An advantage for the Oyster is that it offers docking capability that can be used by a wide variety of laptop brands. Some manufacturers, including Dell (Nasdaq: DELL) and IBM (NYSE: IBM) , offer docks and "port replicators" for their products, but Purcell said the Oyster offers compatibility with nearly all notebook systems.

The notable exceptions would be laptops with controls or ports located in the front or on the side instead of at the rear, since the laptop slides vertically into the Oyster.

The Oyster comes in black, gray or white and measures 9.5 inches high by 13.5 inches wide by 9 inches deep. Its sleek look was created by the German firm Frog Designs. Purcell said the product should become commercially available in January.

By Jay Wrolstad

Read this story on wirelessnewsfactor.com

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