| Mobile automation panel runs Windows XP Embedded |
Sep. 09, 2008
 Elan Home Systems used Windows XP Embedded on a new wireless panel PC intended to control A/V, lighting, temperature, spa, and security systems. The "XP-8.4" includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen, WiFi, an AMD Geode LX800 processor, docking station, and up to six hours battery life, says Elan.
(Click here for a larger view of Elan's XP-8.4)
Elan targets custom installations with its line of multi-room audio/video and home control products. These systems are claimed to have been "the first to integrate audio, video, phones, and third-party products to create a seamless, easy-to-use 'whole house' experience."
The company switched from Linux to Windows XP Embedded in 2006, starting with its VIA!dj II Digital Music Server, then extending it throughout the product line. The new XP-8.4 touch panel is designed to control Elan's A/V servers wirelessly, providing "Now Playing" information along with real-time status display of compatible lighting, temperature, pool, spa and security systems, the company says.
The XP-8.4 runs Windows XP Embedded using an AMD Geode LX800 processor, likely clocked at 500MHz. It includes 512MB of RAM and 1GB of flash storage, and incorporates an unspecified web browser claimed to have streaming media and Flash support.
The 2.4-pound XP-8.4 also includes a "long-range" 802.11a/b/g wireless interface, plus a battery said to be good for "up to six hours of continuous viewing." The device is bundled with a tabletop docking/charging station, which supplies 12VDC power and includes USB and Ethernet ports, Elan says.
The XP-8.4 offers screen layouts such as "Wood," "Futura," and "Trek" (left, center, and right)
(Click to enlarge)
The unit has a "high brightness" touchscreen display, apparently finger-operable, with a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels. Customizable screen layouts (above) not only match a variety of individual tastes and room decors, but can also coordinate with the other touchpads in the Elan product line, the company notes.
While most operations are performed via its touchscreen, the XP-8.4 does have four hard-wired function keys, and a power switch. It also includes a built-in speaker and a headphone jack, according to Elan.
Features and specifications listed by Elan Home Systems for the XP-8.4:- Processor -- AMD Geode LX800
- Memory -- 512MB of RAM and 1GB of flash
- Display -- 8.4-inch touchscreen display with 800 x 600 pixel resolution
- Networking -- 802.11a/b/g wireless, plus Ethernet via included docking station
- Other I/O:
- Headphone jack
- Ethernet (via docking station)
- 12VDC input
- Battery life -- up to six hours
- Operating temperature -- 0 to 40 deg. C
- Weight -- 2.4 pounds
- Dimensions -- 9.6 x 7.8 x 0.8 inches
Elan Home Systems says the XP-8.4 will be available to dealers during the first quarter of 2009. It costs approximately $3,350, according to the company.
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