
HP OmniBook
Brand | HP 2025 |
Model | 16-ay |
Released Year | 2025 |
Type | Laptop |
Screen Resolution | 2048 x 1280 |
Color | Silver |
Processor | Intel 486SL 25 MHz |
RAM | 4MB standard, expandable to 8MB |
Hard Drive | SSD |
Graphics Coprocessor | Intel Arc 140T Graphics |
Chipset Brand | Intel |
Status | Discontinued |
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Overview
The HP OmniBook 16-ay, released in 1994, is a vintage laptop designed primarily for business professionals requiring portability and solid performance. It features an Intel 486SL processor optimized for power efficiency suited to laptop use. The system includes a passive matrix LCD display with a resolution of 640x480 pixels, providing decent clarity for the era. Equipped with between 4MB to 8MB of RAM, it supports memory expansion via proprietary modules. Storage options typically include a 120MB to 240MB IDE hard drive, and it offers connectivity through serial, parallel, and PCMCIA card slots. Its keyboard and trackball combination provide user input methods tailored for mobility and convenience.
The device runs on MS-DOS and Windows 3.1, conforming to software standards of the early 1990s. Its relatively lightweight form factor and long battery life were advanced for its time. Despite its compact size, it lacks some modern features like USB ports or color TFT displays, typical for its release period. Users could expand functionality using compatible peripherals connected through external ports or PCMCIA slots.
This OmniBook model was praised for its build quality, reliable components, and suitability for mobile computing tasks such as word processing and spreadsheet management. HP provided comprehensive service documentation and detailed schematics for repairs and component replacement. The product served as a notable example of early mobile computing technology in the laptop segment, helping to pave the way for future advancements.
Specifications
Standing screen display size | 16 Inches |
Screen Resolution | 2048 x 1280 |
Max Screen Resolution | 2048 x 1280 Pixels |
Processor | Intel 486SL 25 MHz |
RAM | 4MB standard, expandable to 8MB |
Hard Drive | SSD |
Graphics Coprocessor | Intel Arc 140T Graphics |
Chipset Brand | Intel |
Card Description | Integrated |
Wireless Type | 802.11.be |
Number of USB 3.0 Ports | 3 |
Series | OmniBook |
Item model number | 16-ay |
Operating System | MS-DOS 6.0, Windows 3.1 |
Item Weight | 5 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 14.09 x 10.03 x 0.59 inches |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 14.09 x 10.03 x 0.59 inches |
Color | Silver |
Processor Brand | Intel |
Number of Processors | 16 |
Computer Memory Type | SODIMM |
Hard Drive Interface | Solid State |
Date First Available | August 19, 2025 |
Storage | 120MB to 240MB IDE hard drive |
Display | 9.5-inch passive matrix LCD, 640x480 pixels |
Keyboard | Full-size with integrated pointing device (trackball) |
Connectivity | Serial port, Parallel port, PCMCIA Type II slot |
Dimensions | Approx. 11.8 x 10.5 x 1.9 inches |
Weight | Approx. 5.4 lbs |
Battery | NiCd rechargeable battery pack, up to 4 hours runtime |
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Key Advantages
The HP OmniBook 16-ay boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable for business users on the go. It features an efficient Intel 486SL processor, which balanced performance and power consumption well for its time. Its memory was expandable, allowing users to increase RAM up to 8MB, enhancing multitasking capabilities. The built-in trackball offered an integrated pointing device, eliminating the need for external accessories. The laptop supports multiple connectivity options through serial, parallel, and PCMCIA slots, facilitating peripheral integration. Its long-lasting battery was an advantage for users requiring extended use away from power sources.
Limitations
The OmniBook 16-ay’s passive matrix LCD limited screen clarity and refresh rates compared to modern TFT displays. It had minimal onboard RAM and storage by today's standards, restricting software complexity and data capacity. The operating system support was limited to early Windows versions and MS-DOS, reducing compatibility with newer applications. It lacked USB and modern networking interfaces, which affects connectivity with contemporary devices. The proprietary memory and storage modules made upgrades and replacements more challenging and costly. Additionally, its processing power was modest, limiting performance in demanding computing tasks.
FAQ
What processor does the HP OmniBook 16-ay use?
It uses an Intel 486SL processor designed for energy-efficient mobile computing.
How much RAM does the OmniBook 16-ay support?
The laptop originally comes with 4MB of RAM, expandable up to 8MB.
Which operating systems are compatible with the HP OmniBook 16-ay?
It supports MS-DOS and Windows 3.1 operating systems.
Does the OmniBook 16-ay have a built-in pointing device?
Yes, it features a built-in trackball for cursor control.
What type of display does the HP OmniBook 16-ay have?
It has a passive matrix LCD with a 640x480 pixel resolution.
Which expansion options are available for the HP OmniBook 16-ay?
The device supports PCMCIA cards as well as serial and parallel ports for expansion.
Is the HP OmniBook 16-ay still being produced?
No, the HP OmniBook 16-ay has been discontinued.
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