RiscDOCK A modular RISC OS Laptop and Desktop - combined. RiscDOCK is a “lapdock” which is effectively a laptop but without the brain (not unlike the old Atrix things, only more up to date and much more flexible). With different “hardware modules” that can be connected to the lapdock via a docking cradle, it can be a RISC OS laptop, a Linux laptop, and even a Windows laptop. Computers that don’t fit in the cradles can also be used by attaching appropriate cables, so a whole range of boards and operating systems can be attached to the lapdock part. When “undocked” from the lapdock element, the hardware modules can function as a normal desktop system. So, one hardware module can be both a desktop computer and a laptop! It has several distinct advantages over a standard laptop – the main one being that it can run pretty much ANY operating system: RISC OS, Linux, MAC OS, iOS, Android, and Windows have all been proved to work. We provide it with a RISC OS system to start with, but have a Linux module available as an option. It also has KVM functionality, allowing you to switch between the currently docked hardware module and a connected smartphone by pressing a key. Ideal for setting up your mobile hotspot (so you can connect RISC OS to the internet using WiFi), quick web browsing, checking emails, reading texts/messages and other smartphone tasks. The lapdock battery can also be used to add a bit of juice to the smartphone battery. Flexibility in Setup and Usage RiscDOCK provides RISC OS users with tremendous flexibility. The setup effectively creates a portable, lightweight computing solution. You can use it as a laptop or detach the main unit to connect to other displays or peripherals when needed. This adaptability allows RISC OS users to switch seamlessly between environments without being tied to a traditional desktop setup. No Need to Wait for Proprietary ROM Releases Existing portable RISC OS hardware often requires waiting for new ROM releases when the vendor can offer them, which can be cumbersome. With RiscDOCK, users can simply download the latest RISC OS build and write it to the RiscDOCK, avoiding the delays. This means immediate access to system improvements and new features without the wait. Access to Nightly Builds and Cutting-Edge Features A RiscDOCK setup also makes it easy to access nightly builds of RISC OS. For users who want the latest features or bug fixes, downloading nightly builds and flashing them onto an SD card is a straightforward process. This agility allows users to experiment with the latest enhancements without risking permanent changes. Plus, it’s easy to roll back if any issues arise. Portability and Convenience RiscDOCK makes your RISC OS setup incredibly portable. Instead of just being anchored to a desktop, you can take RISC OS with you wherever you go, whether for work, travel, or leisure. This level of portability is invaluable for users who want to access their RISC OS system on the move, making it a versatile choice for both productivity and experimentation. Development-Friendly Environment Using RiscDOCK is perfect for users, developers and tinkerers. The ease of swapping the OS allows developers to switch between stable and experimental versions, simplifying testing and development. Nightly builds let developers experience and contribute to cutting-edge RISC OS development in a convenient and efficient manner, and RiscDOCK embraces these in a smooth and easy way. Low Cost, Highly Customisable, Future-Proof RiscDOCK's affordability makes it easy to upgrade or experiment without significant financial investment. RiscDOCK’s compatibility with various versions of RISC OS hardware also means users can upgrade to a newer hardware when it becomes available, enhancing the RiscDOCK experience without much additional cost. Compatibility with a Range of RISC OS Hardware One of the greatest benefits of using a RiscDOCK is its compatibility with a variety of RISC OS-capable hardware. It’s not limited to specific RISC OS devices, or other ARM-based hardware - it can work with other OSes and hardware platforms. This versatility means users aren’t locked into a single piece of hardware, making the RiscDOCK an adaptable solution for multiple implementations of RISC OS, perfect for those who enjoy experimenting or upgrading their hardware while retaining its convenient portability. It packs a crisp FHD display, stereo speakers, a LiPo battery, and, above all, two USB host sockets, allowing it to become a true KVM. As a secondary display, it is light and offers a large viewing area. The RiscDOCK dual-use case is as a Keyboard-Video-Mouse (KVM) adapter for two hosts. For example, a RISCOS module connects to the left of the display, while a smartphone used for communication connects to the right. In this setup, the RiscDOCK performs exceptionally well, switching between the two setups with a simple keypress, without power loss for either of the two setups (even while using the battery), and a seamless USB switchover occurs. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Isn’t it just a laptop? No, it’s better described as a modular lapdock. A lapdock is essentially a laptop shell consisting of a screen, keyboard, trackpad, and battery but without a built-in computer. It becomes functional when paired with another device which acts as the "brain." In RiscDOCK’s case, this is a docked RISC OS Computing module. It offers plug-and-play functionality with various devices, requiring no additional drivers. The integrated keyboard and touchpad provide a familiar and comfortable user experience. 2. What else can it do, that a laptop can’t? It has several other functions above and beyond those of a traditional laptop • It can serve as a portable display for many other computing modules • It can act as a KVM, switching smoothly between displaying RISC OS, and Android or iOS, depending on your smartphone. • It can provide a laptop-like experience for making presentations with projectors • It can function as a desktop computer, when the RISC OS module is undocked from the cradle • It can connect to multiple devices, with multiple OSes, on multiple platforms - try that with a traditional laptop! • You can even watch DVDs on it! 3. Is it future-proof and cost-effective? Yes! You can upgrade the RISC OS module as newer models are released, or even replace individual components like the lapdock or accessories without discarding the entire setup. In contrast, RISC OS laptops traditionally have fixed hardware, making upgrades challenging. 4. How flexible is it? it is highly versatile and can serve multiple purposes: • As a Laptop Replacement: Pair it with a RISC OS module or similar device to create a lightweight, portable RISC OS workstation. • For Smartphone Productivity: Use it with a smartphone, including ones that supports desktop modes (e.g., Samsung DeX). • For Tinkering and Prototyping: Ideal for developers or hobbyists working on single-board computers or other hardware projects. A dedicated laptop is locked into its specific use case, while a RiscDOCK adapts to your needs. 5. How powerful is it? RiscDOCKs provide the portability of a laptop while allowing you to connect more powerful or specialised devices. This is particularly beneficial when paired with a module running a highly efficient operating system like RISC OS, or even a smartphone for lightweight computing tasks. 6. How portable is it? Weighing approximately 1.4 kg and measuring 0.78 inches in thickness, the RiscDOCK is lightweight and slim, making it easy to carry and ideal for on-the-go use. 7. How good is the software? RiscDOCK comes complete with s STABLE build of RISC OS, although it can use the cutting edge ”nightly” builds if required. It will run most modern 32bit RISC OS apps and software. Intensive apps like Iris and RiscOSM work without problem. WiFi even works “out of the box” for a real “laptop” experience - so you could couple it with RiscOSM to act as a GPS! The OS will develop at the same rate as RISC OS does - there’s no reliance on one provider to build updates. 8. Can the system be customised? Whereas dedicated laptops come with pre-configured hardware and limited options for customization, RiscDOCK allows you to: • Use a range of RISC OS computing modules • Connect peripherals like external storage, USB devices, or additional displays • Use it in different configurations, such as with a number of boards, for development work. 9. What processors and platforms can it run RISC OS on? It can run RISC OS on any 32bit ARM processor that currently works, including: Cortex A8 Cortex A9 Cortex A15 Cortex A53 Cortex A72 Rock RK3399 Unlike traditional RISC OS laptops, it can also make use of 64bit only ARM chips, RISC-V, x86 and x64 processors and more! Not for RISC OS, but for other OSes, buy hey! As long as it has HDMI and USB, it will probably work! 10. What’s the price advantage? For many users, a RiscDOCK combined with a low- cost device like a RISC OS computing module or a compatible smartphone is more affordable than buying a mid-range or an expensive laptop, while still providing comparable functionality for many tasks. Plus it’s far cheaper than a traditional RISC OS laptop of the same specification. 11. What are the use cases for such a device? a. We regularly use it as a monitor, keyboard and mouse for development machines, so we don’t have to keep unplugging our main machine from the monitor and peripherals. b. It’s great to keep all of your stuff one one machine - just undock the module and use it as a traditional desktop machine. c. Use it with a simple HDMI 1 in - 2 out splitter to make presentations to projectors whilst watching the RiscDOCK screen. d. Ideal for using your smartphone and RISC OS module at the same time - press a key to switch between them. 12. If I’ve got a RISC OS laptop, why would I want one of these? Please read the FAQ again - you’re not paying attention! It is especially good as a replacement device for an Acorn A4(!), A Pi-Top 1, a Pi-Top 2, and a Pinebook. It’s definitely worth considering if you have a Pinebook Pro. We’ll even consider trade-ins for some RISC OS devices, just get in touch! 13. It’s not enough… what else can it do? With extra docking cradles, you could have separate modules for different versions of RISC OS, or even different versions of Linux. Just unplug the RISC OS module and plug in that new Ubuntu one! Done! Not sure about Ubuntu? What about a superfast NVMe- based Debian module? Sure, no problem! 14. Can I run Windows 11? You can run any modern version Windows on an x86/x64 module! 15. What’s the catch? This is the catch - it’s an absolute catch! What are you waiting for? Specifications: CPU: 2GHz RAM: 4GB Storage: 128GB Display: 14 inch IPS display with 100% sRGB, 300 nit. Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Battery: 5000mAh Power: 12V 4A DC power in 5V 5A USB C output (RPi 5 specification) HID Inputs: 84-key keyboard, trackpad with menu emulation Optional external mouse Ports: 2 x USB C (One for power, one for general USB) 3 x USB 3 Type A 2 x USB 2 Type A 1 x Mini HDMI 1 x DC power jack 1 x 3.5mm headphone jack Networking: 2.4GHz/5GHz Wireless networking 1 x Gigabit Ethernet Audio: Fully functional integrated stereo speakers 3.5mm jack socket for earphones and speakers Dimensions: 13.1 x 8.7 x 0.78 inches (332 x 221 x 20 mm) Weight: 2.53 lbs (1.14KG) What’s In The Box: Laptop Unit UK Charger (12V 4A DC) Docking Cradle RISC OS Computer Module Optional Extras: High spec Linux module Carry case with pouch for modules Extra docking cradles HDMI duplicator (for projectors) Desktop Dock (for desktop use of hardware modules)