Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - PGS

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PGSLab
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Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - PGS

Post by PGSLab »

Hello, dear forum users. Soon we are planning to announce the PGS – a portable gaming console with Windows onboard (also comes with Android in Dual boot mode), which will be capable to run all games for PC, including those of AAA class of the current generation.

Currently we are analyzing and testing a prototype of the device and want to be sure that our project is as best as possible, before continuing to its manufacturing and realization stages. To understand that, we are asking for your help, tips, ideas and suggestions.

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More information about PGS:

– TECHNICAL PARAMETERS –

CPU - Intel® Atom™ x7-Z8750 Quad-Core 2.4GHZ

DISPLAY - QHD IPS 2560x1440 (5.7*) (HD IPS 1280x720 (5.5*) for PGS Lite)

GPU - Intel® HD Graphics 600 MHz 16 cores

RAM - 8GB LPDDR3 1600 (4GB LPDDR3 1600 for PGS Lite)

OS - Windows® 10 (64-Bit), Android 6.0

STORAGE - 128GB SSD (64GB SSD for PGS Lite)

COMMUNICATION - 802.11a/b/g/n/ac + Bluetooth® 4.0 + 3G/LTE (without 3G/LTE for PGS Lite)

BATTERY - Li-Po 6120mAh battery (Li-Po 4080mAh battery for PGS Lite)

ADDITIONAL - USB 3.0 Host, HDMI 2.0 Host, 3.5mm combo, Built-in 5.0 speakers (2.0 for PGS Lite), Built-in cam and webcam (8.0MP/2.0MP) (5.0MP/1.3MP for PGS Lite), Second HD IPS display (4*), Telescopic analog sticks (basic analog sticks for PGS Lite).

SIZE - 164.1 x 84 x 1.8 mm (160.0 x 81 x 1.4 mm for PGS Lite)

WEIGHT – 320 g. (245 g. for PGS Lite)

– CHIPSET AND PERFORMANCE –

This device is based on a system with Cherry Trail chipset from Intel and Atom x7-Z8750 quad-core processor as the heart of it, as well as built-in HD Graphics video card of the current generation. Even though the performance level of such system is not as high as for the most advanced classic desktop solutions, it still can run the vast majority of modern games in HD-resolution and minimal graphics level. We didn't want to use processors from Core M line intentionally, because even though the have higher price and power consumption, they are not significantly more powerful than x7. Preliminary tests of our prototypes gave us the following results:

Batman: Arkham City | medium-level graphics, HD-resolution, 27-32 FPS.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance | medium-level graphics, HD-resolution, 30-35 FPS.

Dark Souls 2 | medium-level graphics, HD-resolution, 32-37 FPS.

Mirrors Edge | minimum-level graphics, HD-resolution, 26-31 FPS.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim | minimum-level graphics, HD-resolution, 25-30 FPS.

DmC: Devil May Cry | minimum-level graphics, HD-resolution, 24-29 FPS.

Fallout 3 | medium-level graphics, HD-resolution, 31-36 FPS.

Fallout 4 | minimum-level graphics, SUB HD-resolution, 20-25 FPS.

GTA V | minimum-level graphics, SUB HD-resolution, ultra low patch, 21-26 FPS.

Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | minimum-level graphics, SUB HD-resolution, ultra low patch. 20-25 FPS.

Are you interested in FPS rate for any other game? Please, let us know and we will test it and publish results.

– OPERATING SYSTEM –

The main operating system of PGS is Windows 10 (x64). Keeping in mind that our device is using the PC-compatible architecture, you are free to install on PGS not only games, but also any type of software, which was created and developed for PC. The level of performance allows users to run even such demanding programs as Z-Brush, 3D Max, After Effects and many other. It's obvious that you can also install Steam to download and play games from your library. In other words, you are getting not only the functionality of a portable console, but also a mini-laptop, which can be connected to a display, wireless manipulators in order to use it as a basic replacement for your classic desktop PC.

The secondary operating system is Android. Keeping in mind that the device is equipped with a LTE module, you are able to use this device as a high-performance smartphone, call, write SMS and do other things any time when it's necessary.

– RAM AND MEMORY –

The console has 8GB of LPDDR3 RAM onboard, which uses 2-channel mode. Such volume of RAM can't be considered as low even for a desktop, thus, it's not going to affect the performance level of our product. Talking about permanent storage space, we can say that the console is equipped with a SSD-disk of 128GB. A MicroSD card slot allows users to get up to 256GB of free memory.

– COOLING SYSTEM –

This device is equipped with a passive cooling system (a copper radiator, which transmits heat to the case of the device), which allows to avoid processor overheating, as well as one very annoying thing, which is called CPU Throttling. Keeping in mind almost miserable TDP of the chipset, our device will never reach uncomfortable temperatures.

– MAIN DISPLAY –

The main display of the console has QHD-resolution (HD for PGS Lite). Why not FHD? The thing is that HD-resolution is an optimal one for games to play with such diagonal. Only QHD allows showing HD-stream without any distortion, drawing 4 pixels instead of 1 physical. The display is using IPS technology, which provides high brightness and contrast, impeccable color accuracy, short response time and wide viewing angles. All these features are supported with an average level of power consumption and low price of the matrix.

– ADDITIONAL DISPLAY –

We are really proud with the additional (lower) display of our console. It supports HD-resolution and also uses IPS technology. This display can serve as the second monitor (basic Windows functionality), a touchpad and a virtual keyboard. When used as the second display, it can show virtually everything. It can be an image, web-browser, media player and many other applications.

– COMPOSITION AND MATERIALS –

The main materials of PGS are ultra durable plastic and aluminum. Metal is used for all the elements, which require metal, while plastic - for all the elements, which require plastic. A simple and elegant approach.

– AUDIO –

PGS is equipped with a 5-channel sound system. Even though the device is pretty small, you will easily feel 3D effect in games, which support it. High quality speakers will provide you with crystal-clear and expressive sound, which can fill even an average room or a premise

– CONTROLLING ELEMENTS –

In order to be called a gaming console, especially on Windows, our device needs a full range of physical controlling elements. PGS has all necessary elements, including even analog sticks, triggers and other keys, which are necessary for all the games, which support gamepads. You don't have to spend your precious time, setting necessary keys manually, because all input devices of PGS are using DXINPUT emulation mode.

In order to play games, which don't support gamepads (old games, or RTS games), you can always reassign key actions, making them typical for any PC-keyboard. Analog sticks can also emulate a computer mouse movements and actions. Don't forget that you can use the additional display as a touchpad.

– POSSIBLE PRICE –

We are lucky, because Microsoft graciously gives free Windows 10 licenses for all devices with the diagonal less than 10 inches. Furthermore, very lavish Intel company currently actively subsidizes its Intel Atom processors. All these factors together allow us to choose a price of around 250$ (210$ for PGS Lite).

– POSSIBLE UPGRADES –

Dear forum users, we also want to discuss with you possible upgrades and additions to our console:

Key illumination - this upgrade will not seriously affect the price and power consumption, but will allow users to see keys in the dark.

Color illumination of the device border (similar to Ambilight) – this upgrade will not seriously affect the price and power consumption, but will make it more interesting and attractive for users.

Changing Atom X7 with Core M – this upgrade will seriously affect the price and power consumption, but will increase the performance level by 15-30%.

Changeable accumulator battery - this upgrade will slightly reduce capacity of the accumulator battery.

XL-version of the device in the model range – for those, who want 7 inches.

A pico projector in the higher version - this upgrade will seriously affect the price of the device.

Changing permanent storage with more fast one (500 Mbit/s instead of 150 Mbit/s) - this upgrade will seriously affect the price of the device.

Factory GPU acceleration - this upgrade will increase the performance level by 10-30%, but will also increase its power consumption.

Usage of Amoled matrix instead of IPS – this upgrade will affect the price of the device, but will also increase brightness level of the display.

Additional eINK display in PRO version of the console. It doesn't consume battery when its image is static. Keeping in mind that such display is sensor, it can be used to show keyboard (or any other app or image), which will not affect the power consumption level. This upgrade will seriously affect the price of the device.

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– OUR CONTACTS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION –

Out of respect for the forum, I propose to all questions and suggestions to discuss right here.
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noiseredux
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by noiseredux »

If you can hit the proposed price point I am very interested.
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by Forlorn Drifter »

This is interesting... might be something to get me into PC gaming.
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by isiolia »

Hm, a different angle to Core M is that they have far more PCIe lanes to play with, which would open up a lot of possibilities for expansion/docking.
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by nightrnr »

You have my attention...
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by CRTGAMER »

PGSLab wrote:CPU - Intel® Atom™ x7-Z8750 Quad-Core 2.4GHZ
DISPLAY - QHD IPS 2560x1440 (5.7*) (HD IPS 1280x720 (5.5*) for PGS Lite)
GPU - Intel® HD Graphics 600 MHz 16 cores
RAM - 8GB LPDDR3 1600 (4GB LPDDR3 1600 for PGS Lite)
OS - Windows® 10 (64-Bit), Android 6.0
STORAGE - 128GB SSD (64GB SSD for PGS Lite)
COMMUNICATION - 802.11a/b/g/n/ac + Bluetooth® 4.0 + 3G/LTE (without 3G/LTE for PGS Lite)
BATTERY - Li-Po 6120mAh battery (Li-Po 4080mAh battery for PGS Lite)

USB 3.0 Host, HDMI 2.0 Host, 3.5mm combo, Built-in 5.0 speakers (2.0 for PGS Lite), Built-in cam and webcam (8.0MP/2.0MP) (5.0MP/1.3MP for PGS Lite), Second HD IPS display (4*), Telescopic analog sticks (basic analog sticks for PGS Lite).

SIZE - 164.1 x 84 x 1.8 mm (160.0 x 81 x 1.4 mm for PGS Lite)
WEIGHT – 320 g. (245 g. for PGS Lite)

MAIN DISPLAY and ADDITIONAL DISPLAY
We are really proud with the additional (lower) display of our console.

POSSIBLE PRICE
We are lucky, because Microsoft graciously gives free Windows 10 licenses for all devices with the diagonal less than 10 inches. Furthermore, very lavish Intel company currently actively subsidizes its Intel Atom processors. All these factors together allow us to choose a price of around 250$ (210$ for PGS Lite).

The price point is not bad, but there are more powerful tablets that are cheaper. Still, yours has the advantage of a "Nintendo DS" dual screen layout with built in controls. This has an advantage over cell phone gaming, but then how many will carry a second device when the cell phone is already there for gaming on the go? I myself prefer taking a dedicated gaming portable such as the GBA or even the portable NES Supaboy, but I think many would just use their cell phone.

Definitely gauge some market research, there is an audience that do use tablets for browsing internet and gaming on the go. They might take up on this device if there is an Internet browser option. Absolutely make the device open ended so anyone can tailor it to suit their needs, installing their own PC and Android software.
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noiseredux
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by noiseredux »

CRTGAMER wrote:The price point is not bad, but there are more powerful tablets that are cheaper. Still, yours has the advantage of a "Nintendo DS" dual screen layout with built in controls. This has an advantage over cell phone gaming, but then how many will carry a second device when the cell phone is already there for gaming on the go? I myself prefer taking a dedicated gaming portable such as the GBA or even the portable NES Supaboy, but I think many would just use their cell phone.


but this is for PC gamers who want to play their PC games on the go. They don't want to play phone games. I know I don't want to play phone games! And the built in controls make it very functional. I think this is really cool. It would allow me access to the library of games I already own on PC. Heck, Spelunky is the only reason I ever considered a Vita (didn't get one). This would take care of that and more.

I agree that plenty of people are happy to play games on their phones. But they're not the niche market this is aimed at. If this thing can deliver what's promised at the price their aiming for, I'd be all over it. And I'd probably just use it in other rooms in my house besides the one my PC resides in.

As far as your tablet point goes, I also had a Windows tablet with the intention of playing games portably. But the lack of physical controls was off-putting. And hacking together something with a separate controller was cumbersome and far from aesthetically pleasing or comfortable.
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nightrnr
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by nightrnr »

I just want something that will play most of my GOG collection.
I already got a cheap tablet w/keyboard for some low requirement games, but something that can handle most everything else (especially since I otherwise don't have a modern PC) is an unfilled need.
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by Tanooki »

Noise and night -- That's the page I'm on. It's niche, $250 isn't terrible either. I keep trying to like gaming on my tablet and phone, but touch sucks, I will never be able to stop my thumbs from floating off the controls. Sure I do have the small steelseries mobile controller but that requires a pouch, the device, the charge usb cable, and having to tote that crap which I won't do so it stays home.

I have my nvidia 980M gaming laptop, but as noted, GOG -- little there really would that I currently own at least tax this laptop and definitely not that device either.


PGS = A suggestion. Mini HDMI to HDMI output jack (system buyer supplies their own cable.) I have a Nvidia Shield tablet, and I do use that port to put Pinball Arcade among other stuff up on my LED TV. Notably most the games I imagine would not use that 2nd panel of yours unless designed for it so it would be cool with a minimal cost of that port if it can be fit in to allow gamers to cast their game to a TV and play on a big screen considering the fact it has real buttons (unlike my tablet) so it would be easy.
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Re: Portable console for all PC (retro and actual) games - P

Post by Anapan »

Very cool! Way more usable than the Pyra Handheld (Pandora successor) which I intend to get once released. If this came to market around the same time I wouldn't buy the Pyra.
A couple of questions:
The pico projector - Will it be laser? If so, i'd definitely be interested even with a much increased price. Otherwise I would not want.
Video out port? I'd like a MicroHDMI port.
Is there any hardware that might prevent me from downgrading to Windows 7 and still having full functionality?
I wouldn't be interested in the Android dual-boot, I'd just use one of the many emulators. It is a good marketing idea however. Best to keep it available for maximized sales.
Price seems a little low. Certainly if it can be kept that's incredible. I'd expect at least $350 for the features listed.
Is 5.1 with a bunch of small speakers any better than some sort of spatial (srs wow or similar) software bundled and tuned properly? 2.1 would be better imo. 2 small top corner speakers and one low-profile mid on the bottom.
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