When Microsoft announced the UltraMobile PC (UMPC) we immediately felt it was a platform uniquely suited for rugged mobile computers. While the first generation of UMPCs were all consumer-grade, Black Diamond Advanced Technology saw the potential of a ruggedized UMPC and came up with the SwitchBack PC. The concept was announced in the Fall of 2006 and attracted quite a bit of attention.
The SwitchBack PC, however, is more than just a toughened-up handheld computer. Realizing that vertical market customers may have varying and often very unique interface requirements, Black Diamond pioneered the "BackPack" concept. BackPacks attach to the back of the computer and interface via a high-speed connection. The standard BackPack includes a PC Card slot, a USB port, serial and VGA connection and audio in/out. Custom BackPacks may include a camera, mag-stripe reader, laser or RFID scanner, or just about anything else a customer may need.
The device itself is based on the Microsoft UMPC platform, i.e. a compact handheld with a wide-format display with touchscreen. Data entry can be via onscreen keyboard or a unique backlit QWERTY hardware keyboard beneath the display. Navigation can be via touch, stylus, or a built-in pointing device.
The SwitchBack is a rugged device sealed to IP67 standards and able to survive a 3-foot drop to concrete, and even better when equipped with solid state memory instead of the removable hard disk. The battery is hot-swappable and lasts up to four hours.
Black Diamond scored a big publicity hit when the SwitchBack was chosen by Intel to showcase the performance potential and versatility of today's embedded technology by integrating it into one of Orange County Choppers' custom motocycles.
In October of 2007, Black Diamond became part of Roper Mobile Technology, a subsidiary of Roper Industries, a technology holding company with 2006 revenues of US$1,7 billion.
