Announcing the RiscDOCK.
RiscDOCK is an innovative new project for RISC OS users combining the flexibility of a portable system,
with easy upgradability, and access to the very latest OS developments. It’s both a brand new 14” RISC
OS laptop in a sleek enclosure for portable computing - and it’s also a dockable machine for your desk.
RiscDOCK is flexible and modular, read on to find out more!
What is RiscDOCK?
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.
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)