Following extensive market research Philips PC (PPC) has released a second product in the Velo PC product line - one with enhanced features that do not increase the size of the unit or reduce its battery life. Nalini Singh-Hofer, CDS (Creative Display Solutions) product manager, Philips SA, says that the new model has an increased processor speed (75MHz) and the internal modem has been upgraded to 28.8 Kbps. "The new model offers support for a broad range of communications software and includes an integrated voice recorder. In addition, the built-in modem and dual expansion slots mean users can expand the Velo`s memory and upgrade its software while online," she says. Another area that has received its fair share of modification is the resolution of the backlit screen. This has been improved to 640x240 dpi, and supports 16 shades of grey. Interestingly PPC has decided to retain the use of the greyscale screen pending developments in colour screen technology. "We have opted to keep a greyscale screen due to considerations for power consumption, size and portability, readability in all mobile environments, and cost," says Singh-Hofer. The machine comes standard with the Windows CE 2.0 operating system and suite of Microsoft applications consisting of pocket versions of Word, Excel, Outlook, Internet Explorer, and a PowerPoint viewer. The 24MB product comes bundled with a number of hardware and software products. These include a docking station, car adapter kit, AC adapter, AllPen Mobile Forms database, Velo Voice Memo application, and Microburst Virtual Courier Personal Edition, which supports access to Lotus cc:Mail and Microsoft MS Mail. With a Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery pack, or two "AA" batteries the unit has a battery life of around 15 hours.
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