World’s First ‘Pentop’ Computer Unveiled by Momenta

Oct. 4, 1991 — The first computer to blend the functions of a pen-based system and a standard notebook computer was unveiled today by Momenta International of Mountain View, Calif. The Momenta(TM) Computer brings computing power to a range of tasks and settings not served by conventional machines.

The “Momenta” functions as a pen computer, using an electronic stylus that writes directly on the flat-panel screen. Or it can serve as a traditional laptop- or notebook-style computer, using an attachable keyboard and running standard MS-DOS or Windows software. This unique combination is called a “pentop” computer.

The Momenta also has a built-in fax and data modem, allowing users to stay in touch when they’re away from the office. The system comes with a complete set of pen-based application programs.

The pen provides a highly intuitive and efficient way to work with the computer.  Users can run a spreadsheet, send a fax, create business presentations, jot notes and write appointments in an electronic calendar, all with the pen. And they can do these things in situations where a keyboard would be inappropriate or clumsy — in meetings, while standing or while talking on the phone.

Industry analysts expect pentop systems to be one of the fastest growing markets in computing this decade. Lempesis Research, of Pleasanton, Calif., predicts that worldwide sales of pentops will surpass laptop and notebook machines by 1994, and reach shipments of 8.1 million units by 1995.

“From the beginning, people have had to shape their work around the requirements of the computer,” said Momenta’s President and CEO Kamran Elahian. “Now there’s a machine that conforms to the needs of the person. The Momenta goes where we go and works the way we do.”

What’s more, the Momenta Computer is a complete, 386-based computer that runs standard MS-DOS and Windows applications. DOS software can run either in the conventional keyboard mode or in a unique pen-only mode, meaning that thousands of existing programs can now reap the benefits of pen computing.

The Momenta Computer is in production now, and will be constrained in availability until November. The retail price will be $4,995, including system software, pen-based application programs, modem, attachable keyboard and carrying case.

Pen-based Software Included

The computer runs two types of software: 1) applications created expressly for Momenta’s pen-based, object-oriented software environment and 2) standard DOS and Windows applications. (It will also support Microsoft’s Windows for Pen Computing when that software becomes available.)  Applications for the Momenta software environment take advantage of a “pen-centric” user interface that includes Momenta’s patented Command Compass(TM) technology. The Compass allows users to manipulate or modify information simply by stroking the pen in specified directions on the screen.

Packaged with the machine are a number of new pen-based application programs created specifically for the Momenta. These include office automation programs such as a spreadsheet, word processor and presentation program, together with electronic organizer tools such as a calendar, address book and notetaker. Additional applications are being provided by independent software vendors.

PenWare, of San Jose, Calif., is providing a pen-based spreadsheet called PenCell, to be included with the computer. O2Ware, of Mountain View, Calif., is supplying a pen-based query tool, called Query Paper, for retrieving information from SQL databases. Rupp Corp., of New York City, is providing a full-function pen-based word processor, called Stylus WP.

Momenta is supporting the efforts of independent software companies with technical assistance and a sophisticated system for building pen-based applications. Called the Momenta Application Development Environment, or MADE(TM), the environment accelerates and economizes the development of commercial shrink-wrap software.

A Portable Office

The Momenta Computer puts a side range of tasks under the control of the pen. Users can draft high quality business presentations with pen-based graphics software. They can create documents with the word processor. They can look up phone numbers and manage their calendars.

They can send a fax or tap into remote databases by plugging into an ordinary wall jack, or remotely via cellular phone. Users can receive a fax, mark it up on-screen using the pen and send it back. The Momenta improves organization, and lets users keep a file cabinet full of information by their sides at all times. It reduces clutter. Its built-in fax and data modem helps mobile users keep in contact with their organization and co-workers. The Momenta captures and automates a variety of traditionally manual tasks such as notetaking and sketching. And it provides all the standard functions of a personal computer.

Innovative Technologies

The Momenta has the dimensions of a three-ring notebook (11.9″ x 10.4″ x 2.4″, sloping to 1.2″) and weighs just over six pounds. It can use rechargeable NiCd and rechargeable Nickel Metal-Hydride, or non-rechargeable AA, alkaline batteries, providing up to six hours of battery life. It is equipped with 4 megabytes of RAM, expandable to 8 MB, and .75 MB of ROM, expandable to 5 MB. A high-speed 40-MB hard disk and send/receive fax modem are built in.

The system features a full range of communication ports, including a standard RS-232C serial port and an IBM PS/2-compatible parallel port that provides twice the data bandwidth of similar ports on ordinary laptop and notebook computers, enabling faster networking or access to multi-media peripherals. An external floppy disk drive and other peripherals will be provided by Momenta and third-party suppliers.

The machine features an array of technological innovations, including a group of high-performance custom processors and controllers; a fast, accurate digitizer that enables the computer to sense the motions of the pen on the screen; a high-quality reflective display; and a compact, power-saving system design. A backlit version is expected to be available in the first quarter of 1992.

User and Sales

The Momenta is designed for general-purpose computing by users such as managers, sales professionals, consultants, accountants, executives, university professors and students. It will be sold through leading computer resellers, through computer “superstores” and through value-added resellers.

Momenta International, based in Mountain View, Calif., is a privately held company that designs computers and software specifically for the pentop computing market. Founded in 1989, Momenta employs more than 120 employees.

NOTE: Momenta and Command Compass are trademarks of Momenta International. Other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

CONTACT:
Beth Fisher, 415-354-4436 or Kim Carsten, 415-354-4434; both of Regis McKenna Inc. for Momenta International