4 ms·
Does anyone want to apply to YC with a novel idea: make computers for people who make money using computers? I actually thought about this. A nice, rugged comp
by kunai 14y ago
Does anyone want to apply to YC with a novel idea: make computers for people who make money using computers?
I actually thought about this. A nice, rugged computer with a good keyboard, sturdy construction, great pointing stick hardware and 16:10 display.
All of which ThinkPad just isn't right now.
Unfortunately, my financial options and also my experience is very limited in this regard. If anyone proposes a project like this on Kickstarter, I'll be the first to throw money at it.
- Stratoscope 14y agoUnfortunately, the "great pointing stick hardware" will likely run into some IBM patents. None of the other machines with pointing sticks have ever been able to get the same natural response as a TrackPoint, I believe partly because of these patents. What a deal: Lenovo doesn't want to make professional machines any more, but they won't likely let anyone else use the TrackPoint patents.
- kunai 14y agoI actually used a Toshiba Tecra a long time ago (circa 2005) that had a pointing stick with response very close to a TrackPoint. I don't think it would be impossible; only difficult.
- gonzo 14y agoTadpole used the same IBM device without the IBM controller (and its patent licenses). 5 man months of an excellent sw dev on an h8 uC.
- benmccann 14y agoThose patents are expiring soon. http://www.google.com/patents/US5521596 http://www.google.com/patents/US5521596 - Analog input device located in the primary typing area of a keyboard - Expires May 28, 2013 http://www.google.com/patents/US5489900 http://www.google.com/patents/US5489900 - Force sensitive transducer for use in a computer keyboard - Expires Jun 3, 2014