Lunchbox style computer is versatile.

Computer users who need a system that can operate in rugged field conditions may want to take a look at a new line of "lunchbox" style models offered by Acme Portable Machines, Inc., of Azusa, Calif.

The GMII-102 is a workstation that has 2.0 GHz or 3.0 GHz Pentium 4 processors, eight expansion slots, and high capacity hard disk drive (HDD) in a compact package measuring just 16 inches wide, 10.75 inches long and 8.25 inches deep. It has the storage capacity to fulfill backup storage, multiple segmented networks, file transfers, field audits, high-end image, graphics and video processing, which includes data intensive video editing and 3D visualization.

The GMII-102 can function onboard a ship or bouncing in the back of an SUV, said an ACME Portable Machines spokesperson. Each system can handle the jarring and shocks of mobility, and each can be configured with a single high-capacity HDD, with a minimum 80 GB disk capacity, and two additional drive bays configurable as a floppy disk drive, CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-R or combo drives.

In combination with the large storage capacity, the unit can be used for emergency, non-emergency or mobile backup for sensitive data. For emergency uses, each unit can be used as a laptop and placed in hotspots in a network to supplement peaks in high bandwidth/data usage or used in temporary functions for downed servers/workstations.