From: aepstein@tsicomm.com
To: aepstein@tsicomm.com
Date: Mon, 7 Aug 2000 09:29:25 -0400
Subject: IBM Research Demonstrates Linux on a Wrist Watch



FACT SHEET

               IBM Research Demonstrates Linux on a Wrist Watch;
 Illustrates value of Linux across many platforms, including pervasive devices

IBM researchers are successfully running Linux and X11 (a popular graphics
library) on a device the size of a wrist watch, demonstrating the viability
of the operating system across all platforms, from large enterprise
servers, to medium-sized and small servers, workstations, desktop systems,
laptops and now the smallest intelligent devices.

With Linux rapidly becoming an industry standard, it's important that
developers be able to create new applications across all platforms,
including pervasive devices, and the intent of IBM's research is to further
that work.

Designed to communicate wirelessly with PCs, cell phones and other
wireless-enabled devices, the "smart watch" will have the ability to view
condensed email messages and directly receive pager-like messages.  In
addition, the watch will provide users with calendar, address book and
to-do list functions.  Future enhancements will include a high-resolution
screen and applications that will allow the watch to be used as an access
device for various Internet-based services such as up-to-the-minute
information about weather, traffic conditions, the stock market, sports
results and so on.

The watch contains a powerful processor along with eight megabytes of flash
memory and another eight megabytes of dynamic random access memory.  Users
interact with the watch through a combination of a touch-sensitive screen
and a roller wheel.  The watch also has both IR and RF wireless
connectivity.

Among the technologies IBM is developing for small pervasive devices are
packaging, displays, processors, hardware encryption, low power systems,
wireless protocols, user interfaces, privacy models, middleware, and
applications.  Other devices that could leverage these technologies include
PDAs, smart identification badges, and other wearable devices.

Several benefits accrue from the use of Linux in small pervasive devices.
The availability of source code and a well-understood application
programming environment makes it easy for students, researchers, and
software companies to add new features and develop applications.

Features:
?    Linux operating system version 2.2?
     X11 R6
?    Size:     Watch:  56 mm wide by 48 mm long by 12.25 mm thick (2.20 in. x
1.89 in. x 0.48 in.)
                Motherboard: 27.5 mm wide by 35.3 mm long (1.08 in. x 1.39 in.)
?    Weight:  44 gms (approx. 1.5 ounces)
?    Touch sensitive display
?    8MB Flash memory, 8MB DRAM memory
?    IrDA, Radio Frequency wireless connectivity
?    Rechargeable lithium-polymer battery


Best Regards,

Robert Hornsby & Alex Epstein
TSI for IBM Research
212.320.2311
212.320.2207
rhornsby@tsicomm.com
aepstein@tsicomm.com