R-Comp Interactive announce RISCube computer systems
R-Comp Interactive/RCI
RISCubes are small-form-factor computers, capable of running RISC OS and
Windows software. When you boot up your RISCube, you are given the
choice of RISC OS or Windows, and can then run whatever software you
wish.
Many readers will be familiar with RCI's range of SpaceCube computers
(if not, go to <URL:http://www.rcomp.co.uk>) which are shoe-box sized PC
machines, with stunning looks, small size and low/medium noise. The
RISCube is based on the same chassis but suitably expanded to allow
correct operation and compatibility with RISC OS. This is an important
aspect, because RISC OS can be notably picky about hardware setups, and
thus we have designed systems that are RISC OS friendly.
RISCubes are available in a variety of specifications, ranging from
entry level, StrongArm-class performance up to machines giving results
suggesting 400-500Mhz RISC OS performance!
Since RISCubes run RISC OS 4.02 (they can also run Select) you are
ensured a high level of software compatibility, ranging from your
favorite RISC OS productivity apps (Impression, Ovation Pro, Artworks,
Eureka, Schema, DataPower and so on) to music, and even games.
One area that RISC OS has always had trouble with is printing to modern
printers. This is no longer a problem with the RISCube. As a special
deal, RISCubes are being supplied with our UniPrintVA software which
allows RISC OS to print to almost any printer with WindowsXP drivers.
This includes USB, parallel or even Windows-only printers, and makes the
RISCube the perfect system for those doing design/graphics/photo work.
Because RISCube machines can also run Windows software (at full speed)
you are able to enjoy the best of both worlds (just as the PC card once
promised in the heyday of the RiscPC). If family members have a
specific requirement for Windows software (eg. Windows-specific programs
for work, or study) then there is no barrier to their use. And then
there's entertainment software too...
If you come to the Guildford show, you'll be able to see it in action!
Market positioning for the RISCube
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
We are very conscious that there are companies producing excellent
desktop ARM-based RISC OS machines, and we would urge those looking for
a stand-alone RISC OS computer to check out the Iyonix and the Omega.
So where do the RISCube machines fit in? Well, the first answer is that
there are currently no Small-Form-Factor pure-RISC OS machines. A lot of
users are looking for smaller computers, whilst keeping good
performance. They want something attractive, and not bulky. The
RISCube is aimed at these users.
Secondly, the RISCube is targetted at RISC OS users looking for a
Windows machine (for whatever reason). The RISCube combines RISC OS and
Windows into one small package, giving you the best of both worlds
without cluttering up the desktop.
Which brings us to our final point - the RISCube is for anyone looking
to consolidate their computing into a single solution. Few of us these
days have room for several computers - the RISCube provides the perfect
answer.
RISCube specifications/prices
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-
An entry level RISCube provides circa StrongArm level performance.
Despite being classed as "entry level" it is a speedy machine with a CD
re-writer, DVD player, mid-sized hard drive with all the trimmings -
USB, firewire(*), PS2 keyboard/mouse ports, printer port, floppy drive
and so on. There's even TV out! All machines ship with RISC OS 4.02 and
WindowsXP Home (Pro is available as an upgrade if needed). An entry
level machine comes with 256Mb of RAM with 16Mb for graphics.
Networking is included, of course! And don't forget UniPrintVA too!
We also offer a higher end machine (giving performance well beyond
StrongArm level!) which includes a large, ultra-fast hard drive, 2600+
processor, 512Mb of high-end, dual-channel DDR RAM with up to 128Mb
Nvidia graphics with dual-monitor capability. Again you have the CD
writer, and extras, as well as high end "SoundStorm" 5.1 audio.
Finally we offer a special "customise your RISCube online" facility
which allows you to specify exactly what components you want in your
RISCube! Fancy a faster processor, or more RAM, or a gaming graphics
board? No problem! Just pick the components, and a price will be
calculated as you choose. (Please note however that prices of hardware
change from day to day, and the price that comes up online for the
customised machine is a guide price only. We will confirm the price or
notify you of any changes on receipt of your order.)
When it comes to pricing, we want to remind readers of one VERY
IMPORTANT thing. RCI *always* quote prices *including* VAT and UK
delivery. That's right, there are no hidden charges.
A standard spec RISCube costs 699ukp INCLUSIVE.
(For comparison, that's about 575+vat and carriage)
A high spec RISCube costs 899ukp INCLUSIVE.
(ie about 745+vat and carriage)
For more information, please check out <URL:http://www.rcomp.co.uk/>
(*) some devices may not be directly available from RISC OS.
--
R-Comp Interactive
22 Robert Moffat, High Legh, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6PS
Tel: (+44) 01925 755043 Fax: (+44) 01925 757377
http://www.rcomp.co.uk/
--
n.g.b...@durham.ac.uk, Backup Moderator of comp.sys.acorn.announce.
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