IBM’s research division says it has developed a prototype of a portable computer module that is the size of a small pad of paper and has the computing power of a typical notebook or desktop computer.
The device, which IBM Research will unveil on February 11th at a technology conference in Arizona, includes 128 megabytes of dynamic random access memory, a 10-gigabit hard drive and a microprocessor - which is the brain of the computer - that runs at 800 megahertz, or 800 million cycles per second.
"We've taken the PC down to where you can take it home and finish your work," said Mr Kenneth Ocheltree, manager for next generation mobile at IBM Research.
Code-named "MetaPad", the module is 12.7 cm long, 7.6 cm wide and about 1.9 cm thick.
The module fits into a larger accessory piece that includes a small, flat screen on front and is about 15.2 cm long, 10 cm wide and 2.5 cm thick.
The index-card sized module can also be plugged into a docking station for a personal computer, enabling the user to move all of his or her information and applications from one location to another. It runs Microsoft's Windows XPoperating system.
Mr Ocheltree said IBM doesn't have specific plans to sell the prototype, which could be ready for market in few years. IBM is talking to computer makers and customers about how it could be used, he said.
"We're trying to understand how people would use it and interact with it," Mr Ocheltree said.
Mr Ocheltree said some possible uses are in areas like medicine, international customs, and airline and hotel check-in. He said IBM is working on how wireless technology could be used with the device.