A compact desktop computer costing Rs.10,000-12,000 with a six-hour battery back-up will soon hit the market with the promise to take the IT revolution to the people.

The Linux-based computer called 'Mobilis', and two of its variants 'Mobilis Wireless' and 'Sofcomp', have been developed by the Bangalore based Encore Software Ltd that had unveiled the Simputer a few years ago.

Mobilis, sporting a 7.4-inch screen and several innovative features, is a state-of-the-art computer for users who demand the freedom to work anywhere and anytime, said Encore chairman and chief executive Vinay Deshpande.

The computers developed with financial support from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) under its New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative were unveiled here Tuesday by Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal.

CSIR director general R.A. Mashelkar said 37 projects have been created since 2000-01 with 65 industry partners and 175 research and development institutions at an estimated Rs.2.7 billion.

The new computers would meet the varied needs of people with its features, Mashelkar said.

While Mobilis comes with an innovative carry case holding a flexible, roll-up keyboard, Mobilis wireless additionally offers built-in GPS receiver and GPRS wireless modem options.

Both devices offer integrated smart-card read/write capability as well.

The third product, Sofcomp, is a compact desktop designed for offices that don't really need the cost and bulk of today's GHz-speed personal computers for daily work.

"The innovative features of Mobilis have already attracted three major clients - ITC in its e-chaupals for health and education purpose, Reva Electric Car Company for its dashboards and some South African universities for students," Deshpande said.

He hoped the price of the Mobilis computers would come down with high volume production.