PCG-C2GPS
Overview
The Sony VAIO PCG-C2GPS was a subnotebook released by Sony in November 1999. It wasn't supposed to be a successor to the PCG-C1 but more of a revision, being based on the PCG-C1XE.
It was aimed at navigation and being a device that could be taken outside, due to its reflective polysilicon TFT display. This display uses external light as a light source instead of a backlight, which means that it can be seen even in direct sunlight. There was a attachable light unit that "clipped" onto the back of the unit and made the display visible in the dark.
The camera from the PCG-C1 series was removed and the bottom bezel was increased in size. This laptop is slightly lighter than the PCG-C1XE, due to the thinner screen and lid and due to the removal of the camera which allowed for less moving parts on the top bezel.
Being a VAIO, this laptop also came with a plethora of Sony software, including the navigation software and many others, such as: BatteryScope, DVgate, PictureGear, etc...
The PCG-C2GPS was gray, with a purple battery and mouse buttons.
This laptop was a Japan exclusive, with only one model launched, presumably due to it having mediocre success. The starting price was around 300k Yen.
Detailed Specs
Processor: Intel Pentium II 266MHz
Graphics: NeoMagic MagicMedia256AV(NM2200)
Memory: 64MB
Storage: 8.1GB IDE HDD
Display: 8.9" Ultra Wide XGA 1024x480 reflective polysilicon TFT
OS: Windows 98 SE
Weight: 960g
Size: (W) 248 mm x (D) 153 mm x (H) 24 mm
Battery life: 2.5h (Small Battery), 5.5h (Large Battery), 11h (Extra Large Battery)
Other: PC-Card Slot, GPS reciever, External backlight, Jog Dial, i.Link port, Infrared port, Headphone and Microphone jack, 1x USB, 56kbps modem, Display adapter terminal
Daily Usage Today
Today the PCG-C2GPS is not particularly useful, apart from office tasks. Retro gaming and other tasks are almost impossible.
It is only a collector's item and there has been only one sighted auction of one.
Resources
Forum post containing PCG-C2GPS
Disassembly Guide
Downloads
There are no known PCG-C2GPS Recovery disks.
Credits
Sony