MobileDemand demonstrates Tablet PC ruggedness on videos
MobileDemand has created short videos that show in dramatic fashion how rugged their xTablet Rugged Tablet PC really is and how much abuse it can take. If you want to see a Tablet PC being dropped, splashed, rained on, and even used as a hammer to pound nails into a board, view their latest video or see screen snaps and description of the torture tests. -- Posted Friday, May 9, 2008 by chb

Major rugged reseller joins GD-Itronix ACES program
Group Mobile, a premier provider of rugged, mobile and field-use computing products, today announced its participation in General Dynamics Itronix ACES Channel Program which is designed to support the channel in driving increased revenues and market share in the rugged computing market. [Explanation of the GD-Itronix ACES Channel Program] -- Posted Thursday, May 8, 2008 by chb

Report shows touch panel trends
A new report available from DisplaySearch expects the touch panel market to grow to $3.3 billion and 660 million units by 2015, thanks in part due to a market reinvigorated by the Apple iPhone. The report analyzes technologies pursued by suppliers. Despite the emergence of competing technologies like projected capacity, surface capacity and multi-touch, resistive touch solutions will retain 86% share of shipments during the forecast period although resistive revenue share will drop. [See release on Touch Panel Market Analysis] -- Posted Thursday, May 8, 2008 by chb

CradlePoint adds cradle for Motorola Symbol MC35
CradlePoint announced availability of a new docking cradle compatible with the Symbol/Motorola MC35 Enterprise Digital Assistant. Support for the MC35 EDA adds to CradlePoint's growing line of docking cradles and adapters that provide charging, USB, and Ethernet synchronization capability to a broad range of mobile data devices. Symbol users should check out CradlePoint's large product line of LAN, USB, charging and modem cradles. -- Posted Wednesday, May 7, 2008 by chb

Mi-Co names mobile data capture award winners
Mi-Co, specializing in mobile data capture, honored Mi-Forms users and partners at its 6th Annual Mi-Co User Days Conference. The awards recognize customers and partners who demonstrate innovation in the use of mobile data capture and digital ink solutions. -- Posted Wednesday, May 7, 2008 by chb

New series of SATA-II solid state drives
While they still cost more than conventional hard drives, solid state drives will likely become much more prevalent in mobile rugged computers. In our tests, they've consistently outperformed hard disk-equipped models, and not having moving parts, they are inherently more able to absorb punishment. Super Talent Technology, a San Jose, Calif. company, launched a new line of 2.5-inch SATA-II MasterDrive solid state disks with capacities from 30 to 120GB. Pricing starts at US$299 for a 30GB drive. A 120GB drive lists for US$699. -- Posted Tuesday, May 6, 2008 by chb

Intermec adds new workboard printer
Intermec introduced the PW50 rugged workboard printer that provides a convenient, integrated solution to simplify operations for workers in Direct Store Delivery, Home Delivery, and Field Service applications. It is designed specifically for use with Intermec's CN3, CN3e and CK61 handheld computers. The PW50 has a 4-foot drop spec and -4 to 122 degree operating temperature range, and can be equipped with Smart Card and mag stripe readers. Maximum print width is 4.25 inches with 40, 80, or 132 columns. Communication is via serial or Bluetooth connection. We like this design. -- Posted Monday, May 5, 2008 by chb

Mercury Computer unveils the rugged PowerBlock 50
Massacusetts based Mercury Computer Systems' new PowerBlock 50 looks like the tougher little brother of Apple's old Power Mac Cube. It measures just 4 x 5 x 6 inches, weighs between 6 and 10 pounds, and is optimized for real-time image, sensor, and signal processing. The PowerBlock is ruggedized for harsh environments and has liquid cooling. There is an Engineering Development Kit that includes a PowerBlock 50 and a Linux BSP development environment for programming and optimization of runtime software deployable on PowerBlock 50 systems. -- Posted Monday, May 5, 2008 by chb

Datalogic Pegaso now with Windows Mobile 6 and E-GPRS
Datalogic announced that its Pegaso compact industrial PDA is now available with Windows Mobile 6 and optional E-GPRS (GSM/GPRS/EDGE). The IP64-rated device has a full VGA 480 x 640 3.7-inch display, a center-mounted Class II laser scanner and an optional magnetic stripe reader. The upgrade enhances the Pegaso in applications where users need to access their enterprise network when outside the four wallls, such as mobile POS, route sales, direct store delivery, and parcel delivery. Datalogic Pegaso] -- Posted Monday, May 5, 2008 by chb

Intermec reports record first quarter revenues
Intermec reported 2008 first quarter (ending March 30, 2008) revenues of $217 million and net earnings of $7.7 million, or $0.13 per diluted share, compared to 2007 first quarter revenues of $179 million and a net loss of ($4.4) million, or ($0.07) per diluted share. he Intermec paid off at maturity its $100 million debentures, which eliminated the Company's long-term debt. Revenue outlook for the second quarter 2008 is within a range of US$227 to $232 million. [Read Intermec Q1/2008 press release] -- Posted Saturday, May 3, 2008 by chb

SDG System sells Linux-based TDS Nomad
SDG Systems, LLC is now selling a Linux-based version of the rugged TDS Nomad handheld computer. SDG Systems uses the 2.6.x Linux kernel, the Qtopia PDA Edition 2.2 interface, and system utilities based on the Angstrom Linux distribution (yes, Java support). The Nomad includes Bluetooth, 802.11, GPS, Camera, Barcode scanning and USB host and client ports. It has a full VGA (480 x 640) display and uses an 806 MHz Marvell PXA 320 processor. The USB host port supports mass storage, keyboard, mouse, Ethernet and RS-232 serial adapters. The Linux Nomad comes with 128 MB RAM and 512MB or 1GB of Flash and sells for US$1,649 to $2,299. -- Posted Thursday, May 1, 2008 by chb

Trimble Coastal Center controls multiple DGPS sites
Trimble introduced Trimble Coastal Center software specifically designed to continuously monitor and control multiple Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) broadcast sites for marine navigation from one central location. With Trimble Coastal Center, users can view all beacon sites from any licensed workstation throughout the network. [Read full release on Trimble Coastal Center or email Infrastructure_Sales@Trimble.com] -- Posted Thursday, May 1, 2008 by chb

Handy utility: PenAttention 1.0
If you're using your Tablet PC to give PowerPoint presentations, or if you use OneNote a lot, you may wish the tiny little dot that represents the cursor were bigger. You're not alone, but it took a neat hack from Steven Kenrick, am Associate Professor of COmputer Science at the University of Alaska Anchorage. His program lets you switch between pencil, pointer, and an easily visible highlight around the small dot cursor. [Read Kenrick's blog on PenAttention 1.0 where you can also download it.] -- Posted Wednesday, April 30, 2008 by chb

General Dynamics and Cisco Systems Advance Battlefield Networking
General Dynamics C4 Systems and teammate Cisco Systems have successfully integrated Cisco's Unified Communications Manager software into the General Dynamics Itronix GoBook XR-1 computer (click for full review of the XR-1). This will allow current and future users of the Army's Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (WIN-T) to access communication services such as telephony, email, voice and text messaging via a fully-ruggedized, small-footprint notebook computer. -- Posted Wednesday, April 30, 2008 by chb

LXE introduces rugged Bluetooth Ring Scanner
LXE's 8650 Bluetooth ring scanner can be used by mobile operators in a multitude of supply-chain environments. The small 4.8-ounce 8650 ring scanner rests on the finger, with the Bluetooth module worn on the back of the hand or the wrist. The Bluetooth module pairs with any Bluetooth-enabled handheld, wearable, fixed-station or vehicle-mount computer and transmits data from up to 30 feet away. It has a magnesium housing and electronics designed for use in harsh industrial environments and is able to handle multiple drops to concrete from up to 4 feet. [Read full release on the LXE Bluetooth ring scanner] -- Posted Wednesday, April 30, 2008 by chb

Wacom announces new touchscreen technology
More and more users request both an active digitizer and a touchscreen. Wacom listened and announced a new capacitive touchscreen technology, called Reversing Ramped Field Capacitive (RRFC) touch. The patent-pending technology uses low-power circuitry and reversing ramped electro-static fields for pinpoint precision and drift-free performance. RRFC can be integrated into dual-input applications with Wacom's ubiquitous EMR pen-input technology for Tablet PC OEMs or work by itself on other platforms that require only a finger touch interface. Wacom's RRFC touch and EMR pen input technologies can work together off of a single ASIC and MCU pair, reducing overall cost and complexity. RRFC will be publicly unveiled at the International Society for Information Display Exhibition, May 20 to 22, 2008 in Los Angeles. [Read about Wacom's Reversing Ramped Field Capacitive Touch Technology] -- Posted Friday, April 25, 2008 by chb

Averatec enters semi-rugged market
Averatec, makers of innovative low-cost notebooks, has entered the semi-rugged market with the Voya 4400 and Voya 6400 Series. The 4400 models have a 1.73GHz Core Duo processor and a 14.1-inch display whereas the 6400 models have faster Core 2 Duo chips and wide-format 15.4 inch screens. Both have shock-mounted hard disks, spill-proof keyboards and touchpads, and magnesium alloy housings. They also have FireWire, Smart Card readers and even a SIM slot for cellular communication. Prices start at US$1,299 and US$1,599, respectively. [Read description and specs of the Averatec Voya 4400 and the Averatec Voya 6400] -- Posted Wednesday, April 23, 2008 by chb

Kopin gets Army contract for microdisplay
Kopin Corporation announced it has been awarded the first phase of an anticipated three-phase, $4.2 million U.S. Army program to accelerate production capability and improve the performance of its CyberDisplay SXGA LVR microdisplay. The microdisplay is targeted for the Army’s next generation of night vision systems that use multi-spectral imaging sensors and Kopin’s full-color displays to provide soldiers with daytime-like images – even in total darkness. The CyberDisplay SXGA LVR is a 0.97-inch-diagonal active matrix LCD with 1280 x 1024 pixel resolution. With the integration of an internal heater, it offers nearly instant-on capability at low ambient temperatures with minimal power consumption. [Read press relase on Kopin microdisplay] -- Posted Tuesday, April 22, 2008 by chb

NEXCOM announces three industrial Atom-based tablets
Taiwanese NEXCOM announced three Atom-based fan-less tablets with 8.4-inch daylight readable touchscreens. The base MTC 2100 model is for logistics applications and includes GPS and a laser scanner. A medical/POS version, the MTC 2100-MD, comes in white and has an onboard RFID reader. The MRC 2100 is a ruggedized version with IP54 sealing and a 4-foot drop spec. [Read description and specs of the NEXCOM 2100 Series industrial tablets] -- Posted Tuesday, April 22, 2008 by chb

Motion picks Intermec EA15 scan engine for C5 medical Tablet PC
Intermec announced that its EA15 scan engine has been chosen by Motion Computing, the world’s largest manufacturer of tablet PCs for the health care industry, to serve as the embedded bar code scanner for the C5 mobile clinical assistant (MCA) tablet PCs. The Intermec EA15 omni-directional area imager embedded in the Motion C5 reads 1D and 2D bar codes on medications, patient and nurse IDs and medical equipment and disposables. Combined, these represent all critical parts of the five “rights” of medicine administration: right medication, right dosage, right patient, right route and right time. -- Posted Tuesday, April 22, 2008 by chb

Motion picks Intermec EA15 scan engine for C5 medical Tablet PC
Intermec announced that its EA15 scan engine has been chosen by Motion Computing, the world’s largest manufacturer of tablet PCs for the health care industry, to serve as the embedded bar code scanner for the C5 mobile clinical assistant (MCA) tablet PCs. The Intermec EA15 omni-directional area imager embedded in the Motion C5 reads 1D and 2D bar codes on medications, patient and nurse IDs and medical equipment and disposables. Combined, these represent all critical parts of the five “rights” of medicine administration: right medication, right dosage, right patient, right route and right time. -- Posted Monday, April 21, 2008 by chb

National Products expands, adds new docking solutions
Our friends at National Products (makers of the hugely popular RAM mount) report they purchased an additional 18k sq.ft. building and another 24k sq.ft. is under construction. They now have over 135 patents pending, introduced docks for the GETAC B300, GETAC E100, Glacier Ridgeline, as well as an alternative to potentially outlawed windshield suction cup systems (call (206-763-8361) or email them on this). [See GETAC E100 mount and GETAC B300 mount] -- Posted Monday, April 21, 2008 by chb

DT Research adds rugged touchscreen fixed mount panel
DT Research added the rugged WebDT 520 fixed mount tablet to its lineup of web-enabled information appliances for vertical markets. The lightweight tablet has a 12.1-inch display, runs either embedded XP or XP Professional, is sealed to IP65 specs, can use vehicle power or an optional battery pack that also acts as a UPS, and sports excellent wired and wireless connectivity. This rugged fixed mount tablet is designed for use in forklifts, emergency vehicles, warehousing, and even in marine and boating applications. [See description and specs of the DT Research WebDT 520]
-- Posted Monday, April 21, 2008 by chb

GD-Itronix GoBook MR-1 earns Best of FOSE award
Ridgeline Technology, a manufacturer solutions provider that delivers portable information technology solutions to government and enterprise customers, announced today that the company earned a Government Computer News (GCN) 2008 'Best of FOSE' Award for its offering of the GoBook MR-1 ultra-mobile notebook PC manufactured by General Dynamics Itronix. A two-pound, full-function rugged notebook measuring 4.3 iby 6 inches, the GoBook MR-1 allows users to work on a superior outdoor viewable display, wherever duty takes them. -- Posted Saturday, April 19, 2008 by chb

Microsoft unveils BizTalk RFID Mobile
Microsoft Corp. today unveiled Microsoft BizTalk RFID Mobile -- a lightweight platform for a variety of mobile devices, which simplifies the development of mobile applications that expose relevant, real-time business information. For now, it is a private beta with general availability expected in late 2008. Customers and partners can participate in the BizTalk RFID Mobile Technology Adoption Program (TAP) by registering here. -- Posted Thursday, April 17, 2008 by chb

GD-Itronix enhances channel partner program
General Dynamics Itronix introduced the ACES Channel Program to offer greater support for resellers of its rugged computing products and services. An enhanced deal registration program now offers volume incentive discounts. A significant investment has been made in a lead generation program to increase the number of qualified leads for its partner network. The company’s warranty and service programs have been simplified, making them easier to understand and easier for partners to sell. Marketing support has been expanded via a comprehensive marketing toolkit, a new and enhanced partner web portal and company store. Read press release on the ACES program. -- Posted Tuesday, April 15, 2008 by chb

Full review: Panasonic Toughbook W7
Panasonic's "business-rugged" Toughbook W Series has been around for a while. The W7 is the latest iteration with tech updates, including a Core 2 Duo processor, more memory and a bigger hard disk. And it runs Vista now. It weighs just three pounds, has a full-size keyboard, an integrated SuperMulti optical drive, and a massive battery that lasts for almost seven hours. It is no longer a new design, however. Can the Panasonic W still deliver? [Read full review of the Panasonic Toughbook W7] -- Posted Thursday, April 10, 2008 by chb

Microsoft unveils Windows Mobile 6.1
At CTIA, Microsoft announced Windows Mobile 6.1. Among the benefits: texting that looks like instant messging; improved browsing with zoom and overview; simpler email and Bluetooth setup, and easier WiFi connection; a new "Getting Started" center; better security; more personal settings; and a new home screen interface. [See Microsoft's Windows Mobile 6.1 page] -- Posted Thursday, April 3, 2008 by chb

TabletKiosk resells rugged GETAC tablet computer
The GETAC E100 rugged Tablet PC is now also being resold by TabletKiosk as the GETAC 840XT. The IP54-sealed tablet measures just 11.1 x 7.2 inches and weighs barely more than three pounds. It's powered by a very energy-efficient 800MHz Intel A110, comes with a sunlight-readable 8.4-inch display and built-in GPS. [Read description and specs of the GETAC E100] -- Posted Thursday, April 3, 2008 by chb

VIA releases new chipset for small and embedded devices
Of potential interest for the rugged industry: VIA Technologies announced the new VIA VX800 Series of digital media IGP chipsets offering video, graphics and connectivity performance in a single chip. The VIA VX800 Series comprises two chipsets, the VIA VX800 for ultra thin and light notebooks, mini PCs and embedded devices, and the ultra low voltage VIA VX800U for the fast-expanding ultra mobile market, including the rapidly-emerging mini-note, UMPC and UMD markets. [See VIA's VX800 Chipset page] -- Posted Wednesday, April 2, 2008 by chb

Psion Teklogix first to achieve AT&T 3G network certification for rugged mobile devices
Psion Teklogix announced that its two flagship mobile devices, the Ikon PDA and IP65-rated WORKABOUT PRO, are the first rugged mobile computers to offer simultaneous voice and data capabilities on AT&T's 3G broadband network. AT&T’s 3G network incorporates Universal Mobile Telephone System (UMTS) and High Speed Download Packet Access (HSDPA) technologies with download speeds of as fast as 15 seconds for a 1MB file. [Read release] -- Posted Wednesday, April 2, 2008 by chb

Full review: DRS ARMOR C12
DRS Tactical, the former WalkAbout, certainly knows a lot about rugged computers. But with the recently introduced ARMOR C12 Tablet PC convertible they go against well established competition from Panasonic and GETAC. Can the new DRS machine hold its own? [Read full review of the DRS ARMOR C12] -- Posted Tuesday, April 1, 2008 by chb

Panasonic slightly upgrades CF-19 notebook convertible
Panasonic upgraded its compact Toughbook CF-19 convertible PC from an Intel Core Duo U2400 to a Core 2 Duo U7500. Supporting chipsets have also been upgraded as has standard memory size (now 1GB). An integrated 2MP camera is said to become available and pricing for the CF-19F now seems to start at about US$3,200. [read description and specs of the updated Panasonic CF-19] -- Posted Tuesday, March 25, 2008 by chb

Added: Unitech lineup of durable and rugged data collection PDAs and terminals
We've added the Unitech lineup of durable and rugged point-of-sale and data collection handhelds. Unitech, a Taiwanese company, has almost 30 years of experience in data collection handhelds with integrated laser scanners, imagers, and RFID readers. Read description and full specs of the enterprise PDA Unitech PA500, the somewhat more rugged Unitech PA600, the rugged Unitech PA966/967 with a 36-key keyboard, the very rugged Unitech PA982 that can handle extreme temperatures and full immersion, and the RFID reading Unitech RH767. All units are Windows Mobile or Windows CE-based. -- Posted Saturday, March 22, 2008 by chb

Taiwanese Adlink buys rugged embedded IPC maker Ampro
Adlink Technology, a Taiwan-based industrial PC maker announced the acquisition of privately held Ampro Computers, an IPC producer headquartered in California. The acquisition, characterized as highly synergistic by both companies' CEOs, merges Ampro's expertise in board-level embedded computers with ADLINK's low-cost manufacturing capabilities and products targeting the industrial control and communications markets. Ampro originated the PC/104 and EBX form factors, makes the RuffSystem Extreme Rugged Embedded PC, and specializes in modular embedded solutions for aviation, military and rugged industrial applications. -- Posted Friday, March 21, 2008 by chb

Added: Panasonic CF-52
The semi-rugged Panasonic Toughbook CF-52 looks more like a "real" Toughbook compared to its unassuming CF-51 predecessor. On the technology side, the magnesium-clad CF-52 has been upgraded to T7100/T7300 Core 2 Duo processors. Available hard disks are shock-mounted 80 and 120GB, memory goes up to 4GB, and the display comes in two varieties: 1200 x 800 pixel WXGA or a stunning 1920 x 1200 pixel WUXGA. Overall, this is a superb machine, and that especially goes for the top-of-the-line model with the 1920 x 1200 display. If you need maximum resolution in a still fairly small and handy notebook that's also semi-rugged, the CF-52 is hard to beat. [Read description and specs of the Panasonic Toughbook CF-52] -- Posted Friday, March 21, 2008 by chb

Advantech introduces semi-rugged industrial tablet
Taiwanese Advantech, a global vendor of embedded and industrial computing platforms, introduced the MARS-3100S Industrial Tablet PC. The 3100S has a 10.4-inch display and runs Windows XP Pro or XP Embedded on a power-efficient AMD LX 800 processor. With a magnesium-alloy housing and rubber bumpers the 3100S can survive 3-foot drops. IP54 sealing and the usual MIL-STD-810F testing compliance make this new Advantech product suitable for use in manufacturing, warehousing, shop floor maintenance, field service, transportation, law enforcement, fire or other emergency services. [See description and specs of the Advantech MARS-3100S tablet] -- Posted Wednesday, March 19, 2008 by chb

MobileDemand named Technology Company of the Year by the Technology Association of Iowa
The Technology Association of Iowa last week named MobileDemand, a Cedar Rapids-based rugged Tablet PC manufacturer, Technology Company of the Year. MobileDemand was recognized for its rapid growth, innovation and leadership in the field. RuggedPCReview.com congratulates MobileDemand for this well-deserved honor! -- Posted Monday, March 17, 2008 by chb

VDC describes shifting market conditions for rugged vendors
From briefings with rugged mobile computing vendors at the AUSA Winter Symposium held in Ft. Lauderdale from February 27 through 29, VDC concludes that the robust military spending over the past years is coming to an end, which means military-oriented vendors of rugged mobile computing equipment will need to explore opportunities in other markets. It also means that the military may pursue a “rugged enough� approach and look towards less expensive equipment. VDC mentions the new DRS ARMOR C12 and X10 as well as the Trimble/TDS Recon and Nomad as examples of products that are both reasonably priced AND versatible at a time where the military will no longer automatically purchase expensive successor models. -- Posted Friday, March 14, 2008 by chb

GETAC launches rugged PDA/GPS combo device
GETAC officially launches its Model PS535E Rugged PDA with sunlight readable display this weekend during the ESRI Worldwide Business Partner Conference at the Wyndham Hotel and Palm Springs Convention Center. The PS535E is a combination PDA and GPS device that performs and protects your data in the field. It features embedded GPS, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, 8 hours of battery life and a 3.5-inch transflective sunlight readable display for outdoor performance all day long. It also is as Rugged as they come, withstanding testing to MIL-STD-810F and IP54 standards. We hope to have a full review soon! -- Posted Thursday, March 13, 2008 by chb

TDS Nomad gets broadband cellular data capability
Tripod Data Systems announced the availability of a new broadband wireless modem for the Nomad outdoor rugged handheld. The EVDO high speed cellular data modem, made by Franklin Wireless, allows users to communicate from the field to office or other locations where Sprint cellular connectivity is available in the U.S. Expanding upon the Nomad's current WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities by adding advanced cellular technology, users now have the ability to move about more freely and extend their range while working in the field. [See RuggedPCReview.com review of the TDS Nomad]
-- Posted Wednesday, March 12, 2008 by chb

VDC reports on HIMSS 2008
The 2008 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society’s (HIMSS) annual conference took place in Orlando, Florida. Venture Development Corporation (VDC), a Massachusetts-based technology market research firm reports that vendors are turning from horizontal mobile computing solutions to healthcare-specific hardware to appeal to the potentially huge, yet very fickle, healthcare market. VDC cites the "awkward tablet" and commercial-grade handhelds and smartphones as mostly unsuitable for the healthcare market. VDC praised new products that address ruggedness, germ prevention, white casing and acceptable price points as the way to go, and mentioned the industry's impressive adoption of the Motion Computing C5 medical markets tablet. [Read VDC's HIMSS press release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 11, 2008 by chb

Added: Gateway C-141
The Gateway C-Series Tablet PC convertible (now called an "adaptable notebook") goes on with the C-141 models, following up on the CX200 Series introduced in October of 2005 and the company's initial M275 Tablet PC convertible. [See description and specs of the Gateway C-141 Tablet PC convertible] -- Posted Monday, March 10, 2008 by chb

Added: GETAC P470 and new B300
Rugged computer maker GETAC is on a roll. The company has been introducing slew of impressive new products. We just added a description and specs for the ruggedized "business-class" P470 (left), a compact and fairly light notebook with Core 2 Duo power, excellent connectivity, and a 14.1-inch wide-format screen. Most impressive is also the new B300 (right), a fully rugged notebook that skillfully combines a superbright 1200 nit display with Core 2 Duo L7500 performance, battery life up to 12 hours, and above-average onboard connectivity. [See description and specs of the GETAC P470 and GETAC B300] -- Posted Friday, March 7, 2008 by chb

Dual personality rugged military smartphone
Though it looks a bit like it, the Sectéra Edge by General Dynamics is not your average Blackberry clone. Instead, it is a SME-PED — a Secure Mobile Environment Portable Electronic Device. The Windows Mobile-based device was specifically developed for the National Security Agency's SME-PED program and is certified by the NSA. It's fully rugged and can be operated both in classified and unclassified mode. [See description and specs of the General Dynamics Sectéra Edge] -- Posted Thursday, March 6, 2008 by chb

DRS Tactical lunches ARMOR line of rugged computers
DRS Tactical, located in Melbourne, Florida, announced ARMOR, a line of rugged mobile computers with an emphasis on data protection technology, anywhere connectivity and sunlight readable display options for industrial and government customers. The initial products of the ARMOR line include the compact C12 notebook convertible and the X10 Tablet, a 9th generation Hammerhead. -- Posted Thursday, March 6, 2008 by chb

Taiwanese magnesium chassis plant suffers fire damage
Digitimes reports that a fire has damaged the production lines at Taiwanese Waffer Technology, a company specializing on thixomolded magnesium chassis for mobile computers and other applications. Some production is said to be shifted to China. While commercial notebooks still largely use plastic chassis, some rugged device manufacturers may be affected. -- Posted Wednesday, March 5, 2008 by chb

Dell introduces rugged Latitude XFR D630
Dell is getting serious about rugged notebooks. The XFR D630 is a heavily ruggedized version of the Latitude 630 platform. As such it fits right into the IT infrastructure of numerous organizations that already have hundreds or thousands of Dell Latitudes. But the XFR D630 can more than hold its own with up-to-date technology, excellent connectivity, numerous wireless options, Dell's superb DirectVue sunlight-viewable display technology and impressive ruggedness specs: IP54 sealing, multiple 3-foot drops, operating temperature between -20 and 140 degrees, solid state disk options, a touch screen option, and a competitive price. [Read description and specs of the Dell Latitude XFR D630] -- Posted Tuesday, March 4, 2008 by chb

MobileDemand announces production availability of rugged xTablet T8700
MobileDemand announced full production availability of the xTablet T8700, the latest installment in their roster of rugged computer solutions built for a variety of vertical markets. The xTablet T8700, equipped with a data entry keypad and available with scanner and mag card reader options, is ideal for mobile workforces with its unique combination of Intel Core Duo performance, extensive data collection capabilities, and military rated ruggedness. The T8700 is also one of the few rugged tablets we've seen supporting Windows Vista (we published the test scores). See the videos for an amazing demonstration of the unit's ruggedness! [Read full press release] [Read our full review of the xTablet T8700] -- Posted Monday, March 3, 2008 by chb

What role will Intel's new Atom processor play?
Intel introduced the low-power Atom processor designed specifically for mobile internet devices. While desktop chips draw as much as 35 watts of thermal design power (TDP) and even ultra-low power Core Duos draw almost 10 watts, the Atoms will draw from 0.6 to 2.5 watts. Intel stresses that the chip is not a shrunken version of a desktop chip, but designed from the ground up. Various Intel sources mentioned its use as in $250-400 notebooks, "Intel's architecture for mobile devices," "devices that fit in pockets," and as "the basis of new sexy: low power and small." And no fan needed. Will Atom replace the ARM-based PXA processors that Intel jettisoned to Marvell? [See our take on Intel's new Atom processor] -- Posted Monday, March 3, 2008 by chb

Detailed review: GD-Itronix Duo-Touch II
The Duo-Touch II by General Dynamics Itronix is a compact, rugged Tablet PC now in its fourth generation. Upgraded electronics provide an overall benchmark performance improvement of 67% over the predecessor model. The Duo-Touch II also uses the GD Itronix DynaVue daylight viewable display technology for very good outdoor readability. Users can toggle between touch screen mode and an active digitizer, enhancing functionality and ease of use. The 4-pound Duo-Touch II is a fully rugged computer, has IP54 sealing, and can accommodate up to three different integrated radios plus GPS. [Read detailed review of the General Dynamics Itronix Duo-Touch II] -- Posted Tuesday, February 26, 2008 by chb

Socket announces antibacterial plastic products
Socket Mobile announced a new line of products to be built with an antibacterial plastic targeted toward healthcare and other markets that involve hygiene-sensitive environments. The first product combination to debut in the new line is the SoMo 650 handheld computer and docking cradle. The new antibacterial product line incorporates the use of an antibacterial additive that gradually releases microbe-fighting metal ions upon becoming moist or wet, providing an additional layer of protection against the multiplication and spread of potentially harmful bacteria and microbes. -- Posted Monday, February 25, 2008 by chb

Added: AMREL MRK8 rugged medical market notebook
AMREL's line of rugged Rocky notebooks, tablets, and PDAs also includes state-of-the-art Intel Core 2 Duo models with high res 15.1-inch 1400 x 1050 pixel displays and dedicated NVIDIA graphics subsystems for demanding graphics applications. AMREL covers industrial, military and medical markets with its flexible and highly configurable computing platforms, and the MRK8 is geared towards the latter. Its media bay can accommodate special Data Acquisition Cards to include 3rd party technology. [See description and specs of the AMREL MRK8 rugged medical notebook] -- Posted Sunday, February 24, 2008 by chb

Added: Casio's tiny DT-X7 industrial handheld
Weighing just over five ounces, Casio's DT-X7 industrial handheld data entry and collection terminal fits anywhere. It's an ergonomically designed, Marvell XPA270-powered marvel with an integrated imager and a handy 29-key keypad. The DT-X7 is IP54-sealed and can handle three foot drops, making it perfect for any number of warehousing and inventory applications. It has a 2.4-inch QVGA LCD, runs Windows CE 5.0 and won a prestigious 2008 iF product design award (International Forum Design of Hannover, Germany). [Read description and specs of the Casio DT-X7 data entry terminal] -- Posted Friday, February 22, 2008 by chb

LXE acquires Swedish Akerström, adds two vehicle mounts
LXE, Inc. accounced it has acquired Swedish mobile computer maker Akerströms Trux. With the acquisition, LXE adds two Windows XP-based vehicle-mount panel computers to its lineup of handhelds. The Tx700 and Tx800 are rugged forklift and vehicle-mount computers running Windows XP or XP Embedded. The Intel M processor powered panel computers have 10.4 or 12.1-inch touch screens and feature superb onboard connectivity. The TX700 is also available in a Windows CE version. [See description and specs of the LXE Akerström Tx700/Tx700 CE and Tx800 panel computers] -- Posted Thursday, February 21, 2008 by chb

Roper Mobile announces rugged Duros Tablet PC
Roper Mobile Technology -- a subsidiary of Roper Industries that combines DAP Technologies, JLT Mobile Computers, and Black Diamond Advanced Technology -- introduced the Duros Rugged Tablet PC. The Duros is a fourth generation Windows XP-based tablet PC that is sealed to IP-65 specifications and passes the requisite MIL-STD 810F ruggedness tests. Equipped with a sunlight-viewable 8.4-inch SVGA resistive touchscreen and powered by either an AMD Geode LX 800 or a 1GHz Intel Celeron M , the comes with hard drives up to 120GB (or a solid state drive up to 64GB). The battery is hot swappable and the Duros has integrated WiFi, Bluetooth, GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS and optional GPS. It is geared towards harsh field applications such as mining, construction, utilities, public safety or military. [See description and specs of the Roper Mobile Duros rugged Tablet PC] -- Posted Wednesday, February 20, 2008 by chb

Added: Intermec CV30 and CV60 vehicle and fixed mount computers
We added the Intermec CV30 and CV60 vehicle and fixed mount computers to RuggedPCReview.com's panel computer listing. The CV30 is a rugged and very compact Windows Mobile or CE.Net device with a 6.4-inch touch screen. The larger CV60 can run either CE.Net, Windows XP or XP Embedded. It has a 12.1-inch display with touch screen. Both panels have cast magnesium housings that are sealed against dust and water, have onboard wireless and can connect to scanning/RFID peripherals via Bluetooth or tethered USB or serial connections. [Read description and specs of the Intermec CV30 and Intermec CV60] -- Posted Friday, February 15, 2008 by chb

Intermec has record revenue quarter
Intermec reported 2007 fourth quarter revenues of $253 million and earnings from continuing operations of $16.4 million, compared to 2006 equivalents of $219 million and $5.2 million. For the entire fiscal year 2007 revenues were $849 million and earnings from continuing operations were $24.3 million, compared to $850 million and $35.0 million in 2006 [see Intermec earnings news release). Among recently introduced products is the Windows Mobile based CK61ex that integrates EX imaging technology in a rugged handheld computer, enabling users to scan any kind of barcode, in any orientation, from 6 inches to 50 feet away, as well as capture images [see description of the Intermec CK61EX] -- Posted Friday, February 8, 2008 by chb

Added: DT Research information appliances
There was a time when "web tablets" were supposed to be the next big thing and even Microsoft got into the act with its "Mira" platform. That did not go anywhere, but today products like the WebDT 310 and the slightly smaller WebDT 360 from DT Research are being used as light and handy solutions for many mobile computing applications. [See description and specs of the DT Research WebDT 310 and DT Research WebDT 360]. -- Posted Thursday, February 7, 2008 by chb

Windows Mobile-based vibration spectrum analyser
According to Processingtalk, Datastick Systems will demonstrate its interesting VSA-1225 Vibration Spectrum Analyser at the IMC 2007 International Maintenance Conference in Daytona Beach, Fla. The VSA-1225 module comes in a sleeve that attaches to an HP iPAQ hx2400 ord hx2700 Pocket PC. Datastick Systems also makes vibration analyzers that work with Palm Treos and the Palm TX. With these vibration analyzers, inspectors can take vibration measurements, and the view, analyse or email them. -- Posted Wednesday, February 6, 2008 by chb

Added: Psion Teklogix ikôn rugged PDA
Psion Teklogix added the ikôn Rugged PDA to its lineup of rugged handhelds, vehicle mounts, and terminals. The compact and lightweight ikôn is powered by a 624MHz Marvell PXA270, has a full-VGA outdoor-viewable 3.7-inch display, runs Windows CE 5.0 or Windows Mobile 6.0, survives 5-foot drops, and has an impressive IP65 ingress protection rating. [Read description and specs of the Psion Teklogix ikôn Rugged PDA] -- Posted Monday, February 4, 2008 by chb

Businessweek high on Itron
Mobile computing historians know that Itron Inc. started Itronix as a business unit in the late 1980s and then spun it off in 1992. While Itronix became part of Telxon, then Dynatech which changed its name to Acterna and sold Itronix to an investment company before General Dynamics came in and formed today's GD-Itronix, Itron itself is a global leader in advanced meter-reading gear. BusinessWeek is bullish on Itron which sells data collection handhelds and related products to about 3,000 utilities. With 85% of about 2.5 billion meters worldwide still being old electromagnetical devices that need replacement, Itron's modern smart metering systems and handhelds may be the replacement choice of numerous utilities. -- Posted Friday, February 1, 2008 by chb

Psion Teklogix introduces I-Serv Global Service Program
Psion Teklogix has announced its new I-Serv global service program that promises to lower the TCO of their rugged mobile computer equipment and service costs by as much as 50%. The company is factoring the cost of field and warehouse equipment out of commission, time delays and long-repairs cycles as contributing to hidden TCO. I-Serv combines real-time online global device tracking, a guaranteed service level agreement response time, a 24/7 help desk, global support in seven languages and an “abuse� repair program. [Learn about Psion Teklogix I-Serv] -- Posted Thursday, January 31, 2008 by chb

HTC Shift: does this "hybrid" solution show the future?
Albeit not a rugged device, HTC's finally released ultra-mobile PC offers a fascinating look at hybrid technology that combines full Windows Vista with a Windows Mobile variant that offers instant-on and access to push email and PIM data. Vista is powerful but has short battery life; the "SnapVUE" Windows Mobile mode offers only essentials but can run as long as ten days. There are two processors and separate memory, a 1280 x 800 pixel 7-inch touchscreen, and an innovative slide-and-tilt QWERTY keyboard lets you use the Shift like a little notebook. [Read full description and specs of the HTC Shift "hybrid" ultra-mobile PC] -- Posted Wednesday, January 30, 2008 by chb

Intermec adds auto-focus area imaging to rugged CK61 mobile computer
Intermec introduced a new version of its ultra-rugged CK61. The CK61EX integrates Intermec's auto-focus area imaging technology that enables quick scanning of 1D and 2D barcodes in any orientation, from six inches to 50 feet away. In addition, users can capture images, signatures and documents and scan damaged, poorly printed or partially obscured codes in variable lighting conditions. The CK61ex is also RFID-ready for connection to the Intermec IP30 RFID Reader Handle. [see description and specs of the Intermec CK61EX] -- Posted Tuesday, January 29, 2008 by chb

Wyse introduces multimedia-capable, large-screen thin clients
At the Citrix Solutions Summit in Orlando, Wyse announced it has complemented its existing X90/X90e thin client notebook with the new X90L and X90Le models. The X90L is based on the 1.2GHz VIA C7-M Ultra Low Voltage processor. Since the X90L are meant to be desktop replacements and capable of display-oriented applications, they have 15.4-inch WXGA (1280 x 800 pixel) LCDs and run Windows XP Embedded. Compared to the standard X90 line that has 12.1-inch displays, the new models also have gigabit Ethernet, an SD Card slot in addition to the Smart Card reader, Bluetooth 2.0, multimedia support, and both VGA and DVI video output. [Read description ad specs of the Wyse X90L/X90Le think client. -- Posted Monday, January 28, 2008 by chb

Case study: GD-Itronix XR-1 notebooks at Aquila
Kansas City, MO, based electric and natural gas distribution company Aquila achieved increased efficiency, faster communication, and enhanced screen viewability since equipping its Customer Operations department with General Dynamics Itronix XR-1 notebooks. Read new GD-Itronix case study. -- Posted Friday, January 25, 2008 by chb

Shockproof IP67-rated camera that's also a barcode scanner and GPS-ready
Ricoh introduced a rugged camera that not only takes pictures, but can scan barcodes, communicate with a GPS receiver, and attach both barcode and GPS data to an image file. The files can then be wirelessly sent to a PC or server where they can be used for barcode-based workflows that require high-quality images or advanced geo-coding/mapping applications. The 8-megapixel camera carries an IP67 rating, has onboard WiFi and Bluetooth, and represents a novel, innovative solution with substantial application potential. [Read description and specs of the Ricoh 500SE] -- Posted Friday, January 25, 2008 by chb

Fujitsu updates tiny Lifebook
Fujitsu released a technologically updated version of its tiny touchscreen notebook, the LifeBook P1620. The 9.15 x 6.6 x 1.36 inch notebook convertible weighs just 2.2 pounds, has a 8.9-inch wide screen with 1280 x 768 pixel resolution, and is now motivated by a 1.2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo U7600 chip. Ancillary circuitry has been updated as well, and the P1620, which comes with Vista Business, is now available with an optional Solid State Drive. [Read description and full specs of the Fujitsu LifeBook P1620] -- Posted Wednesday, January 23, 2008 by chb

GETAC introduces Intel A110-based lightweight rugged Tablet PC
At DistribuTECH 2008 in Tampa, Florida, GETAC introduced a compact, lightweight rugged Tablet PC slate based on Intel's ultra low-power A110 processor. The E100 measures 11.1 x 7.2 x 1.26 inches and weighs just over three pounds. The 8.4-inch touchscreen display is available with a 800 nit daylight-viewable option. Using a magnesium housing, rubber bumpers, shock-mounted hardware and extensive sealing, the E100 is ruggedness-tested to MIL-STD-810F standards. Geared towards field and customer service applications, the system is available with "mission boxes" for customized market applications that use RFID, barcode and magnetic strip readers or digital cameras. [Read description and specs of the GETAC E100 ruggedTablet PC slate] -- Posted Tuesday, January 22, 2008 by chb

Intermec introduces 4-inch mobile label printer
Intermec introduces the PB50, the company's first wireless mobile label printer and the perfect complement to Intermec mobile computers and scanners such as the CN3 series, 700 series, CK61 series of mobile computers, SR61 and SF51 Bluetooth scanners. As an integral part of the Intermec wireless mobile hardware solution for warehouse operations, the 4-inch PB50 allows users to print labels, tags and receipts wherever and whenever needed through Bluetooth and WLAN connectivity. With a 64MB on-board flash memory, the PB50 can store frequently used label formats and graphics on the printer, eliminating the need to access files from the host system. [See Intermec PB50 product page] -- Posted Tuesday, January 22, 2008 by chb

Review: Panasonic Toughbook CF-30
The original Panasonic Toughbook almost singlehandedly created the market for semi-rugged and rugged notebooks. There is plenty of competition now and so we did a long-term test of the latest version of the original Toughbook, the CF-30. The classy industrial design with its signature magnesium housing remains impressive, the electronics have been upgraded, and the outdoor-viewable display works amazingly well. [Read full review of the Panasonic Toughbook CF-30] -- Posted Monday, January 21, 2008 by chb

Added new rugged devices from Metrologic and Data Ltd
We added detailed descriptions and specs for two interesting new Windows CE devices. The Metrologic SP5700 OptimusPDA is a compact rugged handheld running Windows CE 5.0 on a 520MHz PXA270. It has an integrated scanner or imager. The Data Ltd DLI 8300 is a tablet that can run any number of operating systems, including Windows CE 6.0. It is powered by a 500MHz AMD LX800 Geode and can have screen resolutions up to 1024 x 768. Both devices are IP54 rated and can take a beating. -- Posted Thursday, January 17, 2008 by chb

Psion Teklogix introduces new line of rugged mobile printers
Psion Teklogix announced its PTX Print Mobile printer line, allowing the company to offer its customers end-to-end mobile computing and wireless data collection solutions. The new printers, PTX Print PRINTABOUT, PTX Print MLP3030 and PTX Print MLP 3040, combine small size, lightweight and ruggedness with a rich set of features for virtually any mobile printing application. The PRINTABOUT is a compact, lightweight, thermal printer for mobile sales, field service and public safety applications. It is available in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and cabled versions, smaller and lighter than most competition, and has a IP54 and 4-foot drop rating. The wireless MLP 3030 3 and 4-inch printers, also IP54 rated, are designed for quick production of even complex labels and receipts. They use flexible vehicle mounting or can be carried on a belt or shoulder.
-- Posted Thursday, January 17, 2008 by chb

MobileDemand introduces sunlight viewable rugged Tablet PC
MobileDemand introduced the xTablet T8700, a compact, rugged Tablet PC slate based on a reliable platform that has seen duty in various vertical markets for years. There are significant technology enhancements in the new model that make the versatile tablet more practical than ever. The latest version of the xTablet is faster, especially with the optional Solid State Drive, and even handles Windows Vista efficiently with its Intel Core Duo processor and generous 2GB base RAM. The machine has an integrated numeric keypad, and is available with a mag stripe reader and scanner/imager. And the sunlight viewable dual-digitizer display is a big productivity enhancement for those who use the machine outdoors. [See our detailed review of the MobileDemand xTablet T8700]
-- Posted Monday, January 14, 2008 by chb

Electrovaya releases Scribbler SC 4000 Tablet PC
Electrovaya announced the launch of the Scribbler SC4000 series. The sleek new Tablet PC slate combines an Electrovaya 70Wh Lithium Ion SuperPolymer battery, a 1.5GHz Intel Core 2 Duo U7500 ULV CPU, fingerprint security, a 1.3 megapixel camera, Bluetooth, 802.11a/b/g WiFi, gigabit Ethernet, a 60 GB SATA 5400 rpm hard drive (upgradeable up to 160 GB) and 1GB RAM (upgradeable to 4 GB). It includes a TPM security module and there is a sunlight-readable screen option for the wide viewing angle 12.1-inch display. The Scribbler SC4000 weighs 3.3 pounds and is less than an inch thick. The Scribbler SC4000 comes with Windows Vista or Windows XP Tablet 2005. [See Electrovaya SC4000 spec sheet] -- Posted Thursday, January 10, 2008 by chb

McKesson releases Motion C5-based medical applications
Building upon two decades of experience in mobile point-of-care solutions, McKesson is the first healthcare IT company to announce general availability for the Motion C5 Mobile Clinical Assistant Tablet PC. McKesson has certified its major Horizon Clinicals applications on the C5. An estimated two million clinicians – including more than 400,000 registered nurses – rely upon these applications to deliver safe, efficient care. [Read full release] -- Posted Thursday, January 10, 2008 by chb

Zebra unveils UHF RFID card printer/encoder
Zebra Technologies, a global leader in specialty printing and automatic identification solutions, announced the launch of its Zebra R3i and R4i UHF RFID card printer/encoders, a new RFID product series designed to save time and costs, while heightening security in a host of auto-identification, access control and asset tracking applications. The company is also offering genuine Zebra-designed supplies -- rugged, flexible UHF RFID-enabled plastic cards for single-sided or dual-sided card printing. The RFID card printers are now available in North America, with global release scheduled for early 2008 -- Posted Tuesday, January 8, 2008 by chb

OQO adds 64GB SSD and sunlight-optimized display
OQO expanded its UMPC line with the addition of a 64GB solid state drive option and the introduction of a new display technology offering dramatic improvement in direct sunlight readability with greater than 50% reduction in unwanted reflections. This expansion addresses several growth segments of the UMPC market. Field service professionals, for example, require outdoor-useable UMPCs in tough environments. The OQO model 02 with 64GB SSD uses high performance NAND Flash. The Sunlight Optimized display uses proprietary anti-reflective films in order to reduce specular reflections between the internal layers of the display itself, resulting in reduced reflections in direct sunlight and improved contrast when used in outdoor viewing scenarios. [View OQO Model 02 description] -- Posted Monday, January 7, 2008 by chb

US Air Force buys GD-Itronix rugged notebooks via Telos
According to Business Wire, Telos Corporation announced that the Air Force Reserve Command and the Air Force Special Operations Command have each placed task orders totaling US$4.3 million for ruggedized notebook computers to support aircraft maintenance operations on the flight line. Under the orders, Telos is reselling 585 GD-Itronix ruggedized notebooks to be used at 18 AFRC sites across the US and 289 laptops for four AFSOC sites -- Hurlburt Field, Fla., Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., Kadena Air Base, Japan and RAF Mildenhall, England. The computers will be used on the flight line and in hangars by aircraft maintenance technicians and will communicate with the base network over a secure wireless LAN previously designed and implemented by Telos. -- Posted Friday, January 4, 2008 by chb

New: Special section for panels and vehicle mounts
RuggedPCReview has added a special section for panel and vehicle mount computers. We define panels as stationary slate or tablet computers. They are used in situations where computing power is needed in a vehicle or shop floor or laboratory, but there is no need for the computer to be carried around and no room to set up a conventional, non-rugged PC. We have added the first batch of panel and vehicle mounts, many more will be added. If you're a manufacturer of such systems, please let us know so we can include you. [See new section on Rugged Panel and Vehicle Mount computers] -- Posted Sunday, December 30, 2007 by chb

Dell finally has a Tablet PC!
Well, it took a while, but Dell finally has a Tablet PC. The Latitude XT follows Dell's trademark formula of offering competent yet fairly generic products with some extra goodies baked in. The XT excels by offering what promises, if it uses the ATG 630's technology, to be one of the best outdoor-viewable displays. And the N-trig dual mode pen and touch digitizer adds flexibility. We would have preferred an internal optical drive to the snap-on Media Base, but overall the Latitude XT is a nice addition to Dell's Latitude line as well as a serious competitor in the notebook convertible market. [Read detailed description and specs of the Dell Latitude XT Tablet PC convertible] -- Posted Tuesday, December 18, 2007 by chb

Metrologic releases high-performance miniature imaging engine
Metrologic Instruments announced the IS4920, a miniature mega-pixel imaging engine with a hardware decoder. OEMs can integrate the high-performance engine into a wide range of devices for omnidirectional scanning of 1D and 2D bar codes. The IS4920 captures high-res 1.2 megapixel images and decodes bar codes in applications associated with mobile computers, handheld scanners,kiosks, identity verification, medical/diagnostic instruments and lottery terminals. The IS4920 draws approximately half the operating current of comparable products. [See Metrologic IS4920 webpage] -- Posted Monday, December 17, 2007 by chb

Review: Toshiba Portege R500
The Toshiba Portege R500 is another remarkable showcase product from one of the world's great notebook makers. Despite having a full-size keyboard, an advanced optical drive, tons of connectivity and a very powerful battery, it's thinner and much lighter than you'd expect a notebook to be. Weighing just over two pounds and being less than 0.8 inches thick, you hardly know it's there if you carry it around. The transreflective 12.1" display is totally revolutionary and provides superb viewability both indoors and outdoors. The R500 is "executive rugged," which means it was designed to take some more punishment than standard notebooks. [Read full review of the Toshiba Portege R500] -- Posted Monday, December 17, 2007 by chb

Computrace security software support in GD-Itronix rugged notebooks
Absolute Software Corporation announced that the General Dynamics Itronix GoBook XR-1 is now shipping with industry standard Computrace computer theft recovery and data protection support built-in. Effective immediately, the GoBook XR-1 will have Computrace Computer Theft Recovery, Data Protection and Secure Asset Tracking technology built in at the BIOS level. General Dynamics Itronix also plans to begin offering Computrace support in its next generation GoBook VR-2 semi-rugged notebook computers. -- Posted Wednesday, December 12, 2007 by chb

Alinean and Wipro Windows Mobile Messaging TCO Tool
Alinean announced the availability of the Windows Mobile Messaging TCO Tool, an online calculator developed to analyze the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of competing mobile solutions. Developed in partnership with Wipro, the analysis tool is based on research of mobile deployments by 160 customers, and a comparative lab-based study to determine the TCO of the leading mobile platforms for e-mail messaging and collaboration. The tool was introduced at the Windows Mobile Partner Summit 2007. [Check out the Windows Mobile Messaging TCO Tool] -- Posted Wednesday, December 12, 2007 by chb

Trimble's new Field Service Technician software
Trimble introduced a new mobile workforce management solution for field service technicians -- TrimbleFS software. Designed for field technicians who perform maintenance, repairs, equipment installations and many other services, the new application for Windows Mobile devices extends enterprise information into the field and automates paper-based processes to increase efficiencies and improve customer service. [Read Trimble News release on TrimbleFS] -- Posted Tuesday, December 4, 2007 by chb

General Dynamics Itronix amasses awards
General Dynamics Itronix amasses multiple honors, including 2007 Innovation Award from Cygnus Law Enforcement Group for the GoBook XR-1 and Military Embedded Systems Magazine's Editor's Choice Selection for DynaVue Touchscreen Display Technology. Most recently, the General Dynamics Itronix GoBook VR-2, a next-generation semi-rugged notebook, was named Best Notebook of the Year in the Semi-Rugged category by LAPTOP Magazine in its December 2007 issue. -- Posted Friday, November 30, 2007 by chb

Full review: Juniper Systems Archer Field PC
If you're in need of an ultra-rugged Windows Mobile-based PDA, Juniper Systems of Logan, Utah, offers the Archer Field PC for applications in numerous vertical markets from agriculture to forestry to meter reading/data collection to wildlife resources and more. The Archer provides standard Windows CE functionality and excellent connectivity in a device so tough that it can be used in the most extreme working conditions. We put the Archer to the test and yes, that includes underwater and drops. [Read full review of the Juniper Systems Archer Field PC]


-- Posted Tuesday, November 20, 2007 by chb

Garmin stays with NAVTEQ, drops Tele Atlas takeover attempt
Garmin announced it has signed a six-year extension to its contract with NAVTEQ under which NAVTEQ provides digital map data for location based solutions and vehicle navigation. Garmin also announced that in light of this developments it does not intend to pursue its offer for Tele Atlas. Our take: Ok, let's recap: This past July TomTom wants to buy Tele Atlas for $2.4 billion. In October Nokia offers $8.1 billion to buy NAVTEQ. Upon that Garmin offers $3.3 billion for Tele Atlas, but TomTom ups that with $4.3 billion. Garmin makes nice with TomTom but TomTom apparently still wants to buy Tele Atlas. So both mapping companies may soon be owned by device makers. Not good. Maybe the US government which shoulders the entire cost for the GPS satellite system that makes mapping possible in the first place should get into the act. -- Posted Monday, November 19, 2007 by chb

LXE adds rugged lightweight MX8 handheld to lineup
LXE introduced the MX8 wireless data collection handheld. The MX8 is LXE’s smallest, lightest, and most economical handheld device to date, perfect for use in a wide array of light industrial and retail environments. With its choice of standard range laser or 1D/2D imagers. The MX8 is a Windows CE 5.0 device running a 520MHZ Marvell PXA280 processor, has superb battery life, a very bright 2.8-inch touchscreen, and enough ruggedness to easily survive in its intended applications in supply chain and retail. [See description and specs of the LXE MX8] -- Posted Friday, November 16, 2007 by chb

LG Philips develops dirt-resistant LCD
Smudges on LCD displays are not only unsightly, they can interfere with viewablity. And cleaning them off improperly may lead to damage with certain types of displays. There are smudge and dirt-resistant coatings that are applied on top of films, but that adds a costly step in the manufacturing process. LG.Philips LCD has now found a way to create a dirt-resistant LCD panel without that additional step. A LG.Pilips LCD representative said that the new panel "employs a principle similar to that used on non-stick frying pans. Dirt and oil can easily be wiped away." [See press release on the LG.Philips diret-resistant LCD notebook panel] -- Posted Thursday, November 15, 2007 by chb

How should ruggedness be tested and reported?
Most rugged handhelds, notebooks, and slates come with ruggedness specs. The specs are meant to provide potential customers with an idea of what kind of abuse a piece of equipment can handle. That is crucial information. But are the reported specs meaningful? Do they really help? And should we here at RuggedPCReview conduct our own tests, or should we treat evaluation equipment with kid gloves? We present our thoughts on Tests and reviews - how much punishment?. -- Posted Thursday, November 15, 2007 by chb

Microsoft releases Windows CE Embedded 6.0 R2
At the Embedded Technology 2007 conference in Japan, Microsoft announced the release of Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R2, designed to quickly build smart, connected, real-time commercial and consumer electronics devices. New features include the Web Services on Devices API, VoIP telephony and thin-client technology enhancements, and Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R2 seamlessly connects to computers running Vista and Windows Server 2008 as well as other devices. Microsoft also announced the launch of a community-focused initiative, code-named "SPARK," a joint offering between Microsoft and select hardware vendors designed to bring the benefits of embedded development on Windows Embedded CE 6.0 and Visual Studio 2005 to hobbyist developers and the academic community. [See what's new in Embedded CE 6.0 R2] -- Posted Wednesday, November 14, 2007 by chb

Added: downloadable PDFs of full reviews
One of the benefits available to our sponsors are print-style PDFs of full, detailed reviews of their products. We've now added direct access to those high-quality PDFs directly from the home page of RuggedPCReview.com (right-side column). Available ford viewing and download are: GETAC A790, GETAC M230, GETAC V100, GD-Itronix DynaVue , GD-Itronix MR1, GD-Itronix VR2, GD-Itronix XR1, MobileDemand T8600, MobileDemand T8600 update -- Posted Thursday, November 8, 2007 by chb

IR touchscreen with swipe & touch interface in Neonode N2
Touch technology has been used in rugged mobile devices for a very long time. Resistive touch technology is prevailing, the kind where you use a stylus. However, Apple's iPhone is now popularizing projected-capacity/multi-point touch as a very promising alternative, but even that is not all. A small Swedish company has adapted the IR touchscreen, prior used in POS terminals and ATMs, to very small screens. The company, Neonode, combines its IR touch screen (called zForce) with its special swipe-and-tap interface that sits on top of embedded Windows Mobile 6.0. We reviewed the new Neonode N2 multimedia phone and feel the technology itself may be of interest to RuggedPCReview readers. [Read full review of the Neonode N2] -- Posted Wednesday, November 7, 2007 by chb

Trimble/TDS Nomad now with digital camera and scanner
Trimble announced the availability of two Nomad rugged handheld computers: the 800LC and the 800LE. The Nomad 800LE comes with a fully integrated 2 megapixel digital camera and an integrated laser bar code scanner. The Nomad 800LC comes with the built-in digital camera only. Both models include integrated Bluetooth, 802.11, and GPS as well as 1 GB of internal data storage. [See our full review of the Trimble Nomad] -- Posted Monday, November 5, 2007 by chb

Pragma PocketVT SSH/telnet client now on Psion, LXE, Handheld Products
Pragma Systems, a provider of enterprise-class remote access and security software for Microsoft Windows and Windows Mobile added support across multiple manufacturers, including Psion Teklogix, LXE, Handheld Products, and NordicID to its PocketVT SSH/telnet client software for securing distribution, supply chain, order processing and other remote connectivity and management applications. PocketVT is a SSH and telnet client for handheld devices running Windows Mobile, Pocket PC and CE allowing command line access to remote computers which have an SSH or telnet server installed. Pragma's PocketVT can be deployed across Windows, Linux, Unix and Apple operating systems, and are typically used to run programs, check server status, remotely manage the enterprise environment. -- Posted Monday, November 5, 2007 by chb

Datalogic ships rugged Pegaso with expanded RAM, BT
Datalogic Mobile, a global player in the Rugged Mobile Computer market, announced the availability of the Datalogic Pegaso mobile computer with Bluetooth and 128 MB of RAM. The Pegaso, a PDA-style mobile computer runs Windows CE 5.0 on a 520MHz Marvell PXA270, has a full VGA display, provides excellent ruggedness with a durable overmold, IP64 sealing, and design that withstands multiple 5-foot drops to concrete. [See RuggedPCReview's analysis of the Datalogic Pegaso] -- Posted Thursday, November 1, 2007 by chb

EQO mobile internet phone app for WinMo smartphones
EQO Communications announced the release of a native Windows Mobile beta version of its mobile VoIP, text and IM application. EQO is a free mobile application that lets users call anywhere in the world for rates as low as 2.3 cents USD/minute (1.2p) and also features inexpensive international text messages and free access to popular instant messaging services, including MSN, AIM, Yahoo!, Google Talk, ICQ and Jabber. [See the EQO Windows Mobile VoIP/text/IM page
-- Posted Wednesday, October 31, 2007 by chb

Study: Business-grade PDAs have lower failure rate, lower TCO
Socket Communications announced findings of research into the real lifetime cost of mobile computing products used in businesses.A study by Venture Development Corporation shows that consumer-grade handhelds result in up to 23% higher Total Cost of Ownership than business-specific durable devices, such as the SoMo 650 business mobility solution from Socket Mobile, when used in a working environment such as healthcare or field service. Companies frequently underestimate the hazards mobile devices will be exposed to and that most organizations fail to do effective TCO analysis before selecting a mobile device. As a result, organizations select consumer devices based on lower upfront costs, but eventually pay for their decision with shorter product lifecycles and lost productivity. [See our full review of the Socket Mobile 650 business handheld] -- Posted Tuesday, October 30, 2007 by chb

Roper Mobile Technology acquires Black Diamond
Roper Mobile Technology, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Roper Industries, announced the acquisition of Black Diamond Advanced Technology and its flagship product, the SwitchBack PC. Debuted in the fall of 2006 as the world’s first rugged UMPC (Ultra Mobile Personal Computer), the SwitchBack is a light and compact Windows XP-based PC with a novel replaceable "BackPack" that can be customized to fit customers' requirements. Roper Mobile now includes DAP Technology, JLT, and Black Diamond. The image below shows the company's lineup of rugged mobile computers on its new website. [See Roper Mobile SwitchBack PC]

-- Posted Monday, October 29, 2007 by chb

Full review: Dell Latitude ATG 630 -- superb outdoor display
Battling established competition from General Dynamics-Itronix, GETAC, Panasonic and others in the semi-rugged notebook market, Dell offers the ATG D630, a ruggedized version of their high-volume Latitude 630, a platform that has a fairly long 18-month product cycle -- desirable in large-scale commercial and government market deployment. The Intel Core 2 Duo-powered ATG has very good price/performance, is as configurable as all Dells, and comes with what is currently the best outdoor-readable display on the market. Read our detailed review of the Dell ATG D630. -- Posted Wednesday, October 24, 2007 by chb

Full review: Motorola/Symbol MC35 -- PDA, phone, camera, scanner, GPS all in one
The durable, pocketable Symbol MC35 from Motorola is a true mobile EDGE GPRS/GSM voice and data communicator running the Windows Mobile 5.0 Premium Phone Edition on a 416MHz Marvell PXA270 processor. The MC35 also has image capture and bar code scanning capabilities via a 2-megapixel digital camera that can instantly scan and process any 1D and 2D codes. An integrated GPS module supports a wide range of location-based services and applications. Bluetooth 1.2 supports wireless modem communication, printing, synchronization and more. An internal 802.11b/g wireless LAN allows for fast data connectivity and also, via third party applications, "walkie-talkie" Voice over IP connectivity. [Read our full review of the Symbol MC35 Enterprise Digital Assistant] -- Posted Friday, October 12, 2007 by chb

Psion Teklogix four-year product roadmap
On eChannelLine.com, Vanessa Ho reports on Psion Teklogix's four-year product lineup, as presented at the company's Ascend 2007 forum in Atlanta. Mobility devices are important as that will be a US$3.7 billion market by 2001, up from 2.4 billion in 2006. 802.1n will be important. In supply chain logistics there will be smaller, more ergonomic next-gen multi-function VoIP WWAN capable devices. Vehicle mounts is a smaller market, under US$1 billion, but still grows 6% annually. Those devices will be smaller, include Vista, sunlight readable touch displays. Another emphasis is enabling speech recognition in all products. Psion Teklogix will continue to offer Widows CE, with 6.0 devices by early 2009. Remote software maintenance and upgrades are important, as well as RFID solutions. [Read full eChannelLine.com report on Psion] [See our reviews of the 1st Gen WorkAbout Pro, 2nd Gen WorkAbout Pro, 730 G2, and 735 G2] -- Posted Wednesday, October 10, 2007 by chb

iKey introduces NVIS Green B compliant rugged keyboards
NVIS stands for Night Vision Imaging Systems, a technology needed for safe flight during nighttime. NVIS devices intensify and magnify light at night and often come as helmet-mounted goggles. The outside then may look green, and instruments and displays, of course, must be of a certain type to be optimally visible with NVIS. NVIS colors for aviation are defined in MIL-L-85762A. The standard defines the exact chromatic limits for green, yellow and red. See excerpt from the Digital Avionics Handbook. iKey's rugged computer peripherals for military applications now include LED backlit NVIS Green B compliant keyboards compatible with night vision goggles. -- Posted Tuesday, October 9, 2007 by chb

EMS Expo 2007 Oct 9-13, 2007
More than 7,000 safety public professionals are attending EMS Expo 2007 at the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando. The show, in its 19th year, is for the First Responder community - paramedics, instructors, nurses, physicians, purchasing agents, etc. - and features education and also an expo on the latest technology available to First Responders. GETAC will showcase its rugged computers, the V100, M230 and W130, Panasonic, DRS, Wise, etc., will be there as well as numerous providers of software and peripheral solutions. -- Posted Tuesday, October 9, 2007 by chb

Seagate starts volume shipment of hybrid drives
Hybrid technology -- combining two complementary technologies and using each for what it does best -- is hot in automobiles, and now it has arrived in disk drives. Seagate, the world's number one hard drive maker, began shipping in volume hybrid notebook disc drives that combine disc storage with flash memory to deliver more power efficiency, faster boot-ups and greater reliability for the laptop PCs. The new 80/120/160GB Momentus 5400 PSD (Power Savings Drive) puts commonly used hard drive data onto a 256MB Flash for faster boot-up, lower power consumption, and reducing wear on the drive. Access speed is improved by putting frequently used data onto Flash. Windows Vista deliver native support for hybrid drives, and we're likely to see the seemingly very sensible technology. [See Seagate Momentus 5400 PSD page] -- Posted Monday, October 8, 2007 by chb

Added: 4P all-in-one Field Digital Assistants
4P Mobile Data Processing, hedquartered in Padova, Italy, has been designing and manufacturing specialized handheld terminals and computers for demanding field applications since 1989. The FDA300 Field Digital Assistant is a modern data collection and Auto-ID handheld with barcode scanner, RFID, camera, and cellphone functionality. The "all-in-one" FDA600 adds integrated printer, mag card reader and Smart Card reader. [Read description and specs of the 4P FDA300 and 4P FDA600] -- Posted Monday, October 1, 2007 by chb

RuggedPCReview.com secures RuggedHandheldReview.com
RuggedPCReview.com is the web's #1 listed resource for reviews and information on ruggedized PCs. However, since we review and list at least as many rugged handheld devices, we secured the rights to RuggedHandheldReview.com as well. -- Posted Monday, October 1, 2007 by chb

Nokia plans to buy map maker Navteq
Finnish cellphone maker Nokia said it plans to buy digital-map supplier Navteq for almost US$12 billion. This comes after navigation device maker TomTom recently said it plans to pay about US$2.5 billion for Navteq's only serious rival, Tele Atlas. So instead of having two independent digital mapping companies supplying their maps to device makers, they will be owned by device makers. What will that mean for the competition? And for rugged device manufacturers and vendors who increasingly rely on GPS