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New Opportunity for Investors and Partners

As many here know, my background is computers.  I worked in the computer industry for 20 years prior to starting nOrh Loudspeakers. Knowing how to use computers effectively and the basic engineering that goes with it has allowed me to quickly come up to speed on designing computers.  We use computers to design our cabinets. We use computers to simulate our circuits. We use computers to test our loudspeakers and we use computers to do our styling.

I have started a new company called NorhTec. NorhTec will try to do for computers what nOrh has done for audio--shake up the industry.  There are many things that are wrong with today's computers.  They use up too much power. They are too noisy. They take up too much space and they cost too much.

For months, our staff and I have been studying how to make computers that are lighter, more energy efficient and take up less space and cost less. The Microservers we will build are an extreme example.  These will be ultra small computers that use up very little power for special applications such as military, police, security, embedded and mobile applications.

We are also working on computers that are designed for everyone else.

Why are all computers noisy?

Many computers today, dominate the desk. They use up hundreds of watt of energy--pouring out heat through their noisy fans. Those of us that are forced to sit in front of computers all day long are forced to listen to swishhhhhhhh all day long while fans try to circulate enough air to cool down the power supply and the components in the computer.

I have owned many computers in my life. I built my first one. It was a Motorola 6802 based computer with 4K of memory and Tiny basic. I had to program it using Octal codes. I graduated to an Atari 800 -- spending $600 on a Percom floppy disk drive. Because of my Geek nature, I gravitated to UNIX and Linux . I learned all that I could about these operating systems. Played with them when I wanted to play and then went back to Microsoft when I had to do work.

I was never happy with the stability of Microsoft's operating systems until Microsoft Windows 2000 came out. Microsoft 2000 had the stability I needed. There were two drawbacks to Microsoft 2000. The first was that because it was designed exclusively as a business operating system, it was more expensive than Windows 98 or Windows ME. The second was that it supported less hardware options than Windows 98 or Windows ME. It could sometimes be frustrating finding support for hardware.

When XP came out, I was initially very skeptical. I am now a believer.  I believe that Microsoft XP is the best desktop operating system I have worked with.  It has all the stability of Windows 2000.  I believe that in some areas, it is even more stable. Microsoft XP is also more compatible than Windows 2000 as it provides a compatibility mode to run existing software.  You can define the version of Windows you want to emulate, define the resolution and define the number of colors. This is ideal for people running games. XP is also better suited for people who have a desire to use MS DOS applications.

XP provides more integrated features. Without adding any software, you can use .zip files. XP has integrated CD-R burning. It also provides the best interface for printing images I have seen. You can rotate your files, select how you want them to print and print them--right from the OS. XP also supports directly writing files to a CD-ROM.

Microsoft XP is available in two versions. I have worked with both. What amazes me is how complete the Home version is. It has all the stability of the Professional version for much less money. I have successfully networked computers using both the Home version and the Professional version. I had no problems combining Linux and XP systems on the same network. In fact, it was no problem allowing Linux systems to access printers on the XP system.

If there is a disadvantage to Microsoft XP it is that you might need to buy new hardware to run it.  All these features require more disk space and more memory. Unlike past versions of Microsoft, applications actually seem to run faster using Microsoft XP.

I have run XP on my aging laptop that is a Pentium II 300. The performance is the same as when I was using Windows ME. I did upgrade the RAM from 64 to 192 MB and I upgraded the disk from 6.5 GB to 20 GB.

I have set up a lab with 10 computers running everything from FreeBSD, QNX, Solaris x86, Windows 98 and Windows XP.  Basically, I have been on a crash project to form a team of people who are the smartest people on using computers to solve real problems.  I want people with an open mind. I want people who are willing to suggest something "outside the box" if it is a better solution.

We have succeeded in creating a computer that runs at 800 MHz but doesn't require a fan.  What that means is that we have developed a completely quiet computer (except for the disk drive when it operates).  Even so, we have selected an ultra quiet disk drive so even it is not as noisy as most disk drives.

Most computers are too loud, too hot, too big, too complicated and too expensive

The computer that we had been working on is smaller, uses less energy, produces less noise and generates less heat than most computers. This computer is smaller than even the typical Micro ATX or Flex ATX computers. This computer will be an ideal computer for multimedia. It has a TV output so you can use the computer as a silent DVD player. We have even integrated a SPDIF output so you can output the audio into your standard processor. The unit will come standard with a DVD, 256 MB RAM 20 GB of disk. The system will include audio, 10/100BaseT, TV and SVHS output, integrated AGP video, 2 or 4 USB, RS232, printer port, game port, keyboard and mouse.  While pricing is not final, we estimate a selling price of about $495.00 USD.

In addition to our small profile, silent computers, we are also working on extremely energy efficient and extremely small. We believe our Microservers will have a lot of utility building out the Internet into areas where large, inefficient and noisy computers simply are not appropriate.

Rendering of the upcoming Panda PC

NorhTec has been working on a new generation of computers. NorhTec Computers are energy efficient, small, cost effective, preconfigured computers that are ideal for both office an home. The Panda PC will be one of the smallest fully functional desktop computers available. Today, most computers have a processor fan, video card fan, power supply fan and a fan for the case. All of these fans create noise. The Panda's advanced design does not require a fan.

The Panda PC can be configured as a desktop solution, automobile based computer or as a thin client. The Panda PC integrates a DVD, VCD and CD player into the BIOS. This allows the user to play disks without booting the OS. This feature and the fact that the Panda PC has no fans, makes the Panda PC the most ideal computer ever created for multimedia applications

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The Panda PC is one of the first computers to provide DVD and CD play without booting the OS.

The Panda PC features one of the first desktops with a built in AC/DC power supply. The Panda PC power supply automatically switches from 12/24 volts to 120/240 volts. The same computer can be powered by an automobile, boat, solar panel or battery.

Most inexpensive PCs offer the bare minimum disk, memory and integrate very low-cost components. While most low cost computers use a cheap and noisy 3.5 inch disk drive, the Panda PC integrates the smaller 2.5 inch disk to save energy, save space and to operate more efficiently. Instead of a cheap CD ROM, we provide a slim line DVD/CDRW.

The PandaPC is very easy to use. If you install Microsoft's Windows XP, the Panda PC will operate fully without having to load any additional drivers. The Panda PC includes four USB ports and a 10/100 Base T port.

NorhTec has gone one step farther with the Panda. While the Panda is ideal for Microsoft Windows, NorhTec will offer the Panda PC fully configured with a special version of Linux that is configured to be the easiest to use system you have ever seen. NorhTec will install and configure each Panda PC with all the applications any office can ever want. The environment and operations will be keystroke and mouse click compatible with the world's most popular environment to a degree no other Linux system has been before.

Even more exciting, for those who already have or who acquire legal licenses for Microsoft Office 97 or 2000, Internet Explorer, and Microsoft Media Player, NorhTec will install these applications, for a small additional fee.

Each Panda PC will include software that will allow every workstation to be administered remotely. We will offer training to system integrators so that they will be able to effectively service and support an entire network of computers from a central location.

The Panda PC is the ideal home entertainment computer as it is small and efficient and quiet. You can play DVDs, CDs browse the web and burn CDs using the Panda PC.

The Panda PC will sell for $495.00. This includes 20GB 2.5 inch hard disk, 256 MB RAM, and slim DVD/CDRW. The Panda PC is at home in an office, home, mobile home, or automobile.

NorhTec will offer a variety of options for the Panda PC. We will offer inexpensive wireless networks, LCD monitors and multimedia devices.

Why do we call it a Panda PC?

Simple - just look at the picture above. It resembles a real Panda from the top / bottom.

Microserver GP+

The Microserver GP+ is ideal for firewalls, gateways, video survielance, video teleconferncing, standalone embedded, ATM machines and kiosks. The Microserver GP+ is a selfcontained Pentium class server with full multimedia and network gateway capabilities. No other system offers this level of integration. The Microserver GP+ is suited for Windows 9x, Windows CE.NET, Windows Embedded XP, Linux and BSD.

NorhTec Microserver GP+

The NorhTec MIcroserver GP+ is based on the new SiS 552 processor. This processor integrates all the functions of a multimedia PC onto a single chip. In our implementation, we have created one of the most fully functional "all-in-one" packages ever. The NorhTec Microserver GP+ is a fully integrated multimedia server that is one of the smallest Pentium class computers in the world.

The NorhTec Microserver comes standard with 128 MB RAM and 20 GB disk. The system includes video in, 3 USB, RS232, support for 2 VGA screens, 2 x 10/100BaseT, Printer Port, RS232, audio, PS/2 mouse and keyboard, and IrDA input. The NorhTec Microserver is ideal for building low powered networks, residential and and office gateways, security systems, wearable computers (with external battery pack), dedicated devices such as Kiosk, POS, reservation systems, terminal replacements and ATM machines. The Microserver GP+ is $495.00 USD. NorhTec will preconfigure the Microserver into a variety of configurations. If your application is deployed on Windows, we can redeploy on embedded XP. While the Microserver will run Windows XP, we suggest deploying with Windows 98SE or Windows ME.

We have a variety of applications we can preconfigure to include appliance servers, gateways, firewalls, security systems, and motion detection systems. We have a variety of wireless building blocks to use the Microserver to create inside or outside wireless campuses. 

We believe that there is a huge market for this product particularly to build out the Internet into new locations. We believe that eventually, Internet access will be offered aboard airplanes, ships, trains busses and automobiles. For this to happen, smaller and more energy efficient servers will be required. There are a variety of solutions coming out that offer energy efficient designs. Many of these are based on RISC chips. While these solutions are fine for applications that are custom ported, these RISC solutions are not able to run the large library of applications that already exist on the x86 platform.

NorhTec Microserver HP

The Microserver HP is powerful enough to replace a desktop PC but small enough to fit just about anywhere. The Microserver HP is fully compatible with Windows XP, Windows 2000 and GNU/Linux.

The Microserver HP features an internal PC/104 slot. This can be used for custom projects -- such as adding RGB video or adding multiple serial ports. Our mechanical engineers can design a custom case to meet just about any requirement.

The Microserver HP draws 12.5 watts with solid state disk or 15 watts with a standard 2.5 inch disk. The Microserver HP+ features a CF slot. This is ideal for backup memory storage or for a CF compatible wireless network card.

Microserver HP board shown next to 2.5 inch laptop drive.

NorhTec Microservers can save substantially any time a network has to be rapidly deployed. NorhTec Microservers can be configured as firewall, gateways, application servers, video teleconferencing servers, bridges and laptop replacements. They key advantages of the NorhTec Microservers are:

1. Energy Efficient

Drawing only 3 to 7 Watts, our server will be very energy efficient. It will be possible to power microservers with a small battery or solar power.

Our devices will create new opportunities to help bridge the so-called digital divide and extend the Internet geographically (e.g. remote areas) as well as to expand the usefulness of mobile communications. They will make personal computers appear bulky, heavy and impractical. They will give professionals everything they need in one device and it will fit into a shirt pocket.

2. Small Footprint

As our servers are very compact, our customers will enjoy a significant reduction in the amount of floor space required (i.e. lower real estate leasing costs).

3. Portable

As our server is very small, very light weight and very power-efficient, it will be completely portable. Portability also translates to rapidly deployable.

4. Cross Platform Compatibility

Our MicroServer GP will be capable of running Windows, Linux, Solaris x86, QNX, Vx or DOS. This will provide mass market potential as it allows our customers to choose from thousands of existing applications.

Our server will employ an Internet standards-based architecture that enables it to function with other network devices that operate on a variety of operating systems, including Windows NT and UNIX.  By being cross platform compatible, our server will enable our customers to realize the benefits of our products as part of their existing network infrastructure.

The compatibility of our products with various operating systems allows our users to run thousands of applications. It will be possible to install these applications through direct connection, over the Internet or through infrared transmission from another device. In addition, users will be able to synchronize with widely used desktop organizer software packages including Microsoft Outlook, and will be able to easily import personal data from other applications. The user can upgrade the functionality simply by adding standard PC peripherals.

5. Video Output Port

Our server will feature a video output port. This will allow users to browse web pages through their TV.  We plan to create a communications link between a Palm device and the server so that a person can use their Palm device to interact with the server.  The IrDA (i.e. Infrared) link will allow a person using a browser on their Palm device to navigate the web and input information into the Palm.  This will then be beamed to the server via IrDA and the output will be displayed on the TV screen.  In this way, a user can easily access Internet information through their ISP using the Palm as a remote control.

6. Attract and Support Application Developers

We intend to actively promote third-party development of software applications for our servers through a comprehensive partnership program with independent, open source software developers. We believe that our use of the Linux operating system is a fundamental element of this program, since an open source operating system better enables developers to create optimized and reliable, high value added applications.

7. Reliability

Our servers will be highly reliable. NorhTec Microservers will have a fail-safe feature that allows the server to always boot, even in the case of a hard disk drive failure. As the server will require ultra-low power, batteries will provide for several hours of emergency backup in case of power outages. The server will be designed to operate 24 hours a day without intervention.

8. Excellent Value Serving Multiple Customer Needs

We will design our products for quality, superior functionality and performance, all at low but fair price. This will allow us to gain acceptance in the worldwide office/consumer server market. Todays personal electronic market is highly fragmented. Consumers are forced to purchase a number of different devices, which in fact, contain virtually identical hardware components. For example, consumers buy PDAs, some of which only store personal information and may perform minor computing tasks (e.g. templates).  Similarly, digital cameras capture photos but are inconvenient and expensive when it comes to storage of the digital images. Other single function devices include e-books, voice recorders, electronic games and MP3 players. Now laptops are perceived as large and not so portable and convenient. Business travelers, who carry along a laptop for presentations, experience frustrations with short battery life and slow boot-up times.

Our initial product, the MicroServer GP, will work in conjunction with, and will complement many devices by providing a file storage system. Our second product, our MicroServer PE, will be designed to perform most of the functions mentioned above - all in a single device - a device that could be with its user throughout the day.

9. Low Heat Dispersion

Operating at only 3 to 7 Watts, datacenter users will not require air conditioning as is needed in todays server rooms. This will further reduce operating expenses (e.g. power for air conditioning).

10. No Cooling Fan

Our servers will not require an internal cooling fan. This feature offers significant advantages in certain market segments. For example, in hazardous or corrosive chemical environments such as found in the chemical processing, pulp and paper, and the oil and gas industries, our server will be more adaptable as it will be easily encapsulated. Our server could be used in certain applications (e.g. emergency rooms) where fans are not permitted or in applications where cooling fans must be eliminated in order to ensure system reliability. We expect our servers will find ready markets in many countries where humidity and salty (e.g. ocean spray) or dusty environments cause premature failure of computing equipment requiring fans.

11. Networking and Internet Access and Home Networking

Our MicroServer will be designed to allow anyone with a cable modem or DSL connection to add a server between their home network and the Internet connection. Alternatively, the server can access a modem directly to allow the user to access the Internet. The user can use this server as a router, firewall or gateway for other computers or Internet appliances in the home. Builders of new homes may wish to include our server as they do a kitchen appliance package (e.g. home automation, home security).

12. Ease of Installation and Use

Our server will be pre-configured and include a simple set-up procedure designed to require less than 15 minutes for deployment by a non-technical person. Our web-based user interface will be intuitive and easy-to-use.  It will shield the user from technical complexities and will minimize the need for a trained information technology employee.  The MicroServer may be administered from any Internet accessible location.

13. Building Blocks for Future Growth

As the amount of data traffic handled by our customers MicroServer GP increases, additional units can be added at little incremental cost.  This ability to easily add our servers (i.e. salability) provides an evolution plan that allows customers to develop their network infrastructure according to their needs.

14. Complete Integrated Solution

NorhTec is also working on next generation handheld PCs. These devices will be more powerful than PDAs and lighter and less expensive than laptops. The Personal Edition of our Microservers will have all the capability of much larger computers but will be smaller than a paperback book. The same computer that you carry with you can do backup duty as a desktop by simply connecting an external monitor, keyboard and mouse. Like all NorhTec products, the PE servers will be designed to "network out of the box".
 

A Full Pentium Multimedia computer on a 3.1 x 3.9 inch board

Artistic Concept of the upcoming personal edition

The personal edition of the Microserver will feature a 640 x 480 resolution 4 inch screen. It will be x86 compatible and run existing Windows 9x applications. Pictured below shows the extensive I/O offered by the NorhTec Personal Server. The Personal Server will have 2 x USB, IrDA, microphone, 1 serial port, 1 Ethernet port, 1 keyboard, 1 mouse and a VGA port. The NorhTec Personal Server will provide desktop functionality in a form factor similar to a PDA. It will be the first device that can replace a desktop, laptop and PDA.

Namphung holding mockup of a NorhTec Microserver, Personal Edition

Our products will provide our customers with complete solutions that do not require additional hardware or software.  We will deliver customers the solutions they require, cost effectively. NorhTec Microservers is looking for investors and partners. For additional information on NorhTec Microservers, please contact hambrook@apectec.com.

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