Hi,

I am a stock trader who is looking for a good small computer that can be used to trade from most anywhere in the US. My trading software requires:

System: Windows XP SP2 and up - 256 MB RAM and up (Vista supported)
Software: Microsoft .NET 2.0 Framework

Besides that I want the wide area of internet access mentioned above, it does not necessarily have to be high speed but it should be a reliable connection (occasional dropping is not a big deal)

The OQO itself seems to have reliability issues. That would be a serious concern.

I was wondering there there are any other UMPCs that would do what I needed and had a better reliability record than the OQO?

Thanks

If you want a small computer (say 5" screen) that comes with WWAN, then you may want to look at the Sony Vaio UX. My biggest complaint about the OQO is its processor which is a Via C7-m. Those things are in-line processors which makes the processor slower in comparison with out-of-order processors that are at the same clock speed. The Sony Vaio UX are powered by Core Solos or Core 2 Solos (different models). Also, if you don't mind the larger size, the Q1 Ultra Premium is also a pretty good machine (I currently own a Q1UP)

Currently, I don't think there are any Atom powered UMPCs that offer WWAN so if you bought one of those, you would have to get a separate module or embed one yourself if possible. (beware, Atoms are also in-line processors)

Check out the Sharp/Willcom D4, it runs Vista very well and is a slider and clamshell that is jacket pocket in size.  Only drawback is you definately need the extended battery which still makes it jacket pocket in size but only will run 2 hour 50 minutes to maybe a little over 3 hours with no wireless.  Conics.net has the best prices for used ones and there are others selling new ones about 2-300 dollars more.

 

http://www.pocketables.net/2008/08/review-willcom.html

If you wait a little they just released a version of the D4 with the extended battery included, it excludes MS Office, and sells for $875 instead of $1200.

More options with WWAN are the Fujitsu U810 which has an HSDPA for AT&T and the HTC Shift which comes standard with EVDO or HSDPA, both unlocked. However, those UMPC's are bigger.