Panasonic's flagship Toughbook hardly needs an introduction. Few computers have the history and pedigree of the rugged Toughbooks that hold a special place as perhaps the most popular rugged notebook computers ever made. In mid-2010, Panasonic announced the Toughbook 31 with a variety of technology updates (including Intel Core i3 and i5 processors) and enhancements that brings the platform technologically up-to-date without obsoleting existing customers' investment in older Toughbook docks and peripherals. [Read full review of the Panasonic Toughbook 31]

Motion launches enhanced Tablet PC support programs
With first-class support increasingly becoming a differentiator when making rugged computing product choices, Motion Computing announced a number of new support programs geared towards improved uptime and reducing lost productivity. The Motion Express Tablet Exchange Service provides next business day delivery of a replacement tablet for volume (50+) customers; Accidental Damage Protection offers an added layer of protection against unintentional physical damage; and Enterprise (1000+ units) Support Services offers access to a dedicated team of product experts to address critical technical support issues. [See Motion Product Services page and press release] -- Posted Wednesday, September 1, 2010 by chb

LED control chip can lower power draw by 45%
With power management ever more important in mobile devices that must balance performance and features with small size and weight, the ability to manage display backlights is crucial. Analog Devices Inc. just announced their new ADP8870 LED charge-pump backlight driver chip that can lower the power consumption of battery-operated handheld devices by up to 45% without compromising viewing quality by automatically controlling LED brightness. [See ADP8870 product page] -- Posted Monday, August 30, 2010 by chb

Learning about Android on tablets for US$169
Experts expect tens of millions of tablets will sell over the next couple of years, and their OS of choice may well be Android. Yet, despite all the tablet announcements, we really haven't seen much. Enter the Augen GenTouch78, a US$169 tablet running Android 2.1. It's available at, of all places, KMart. No, it's not an iPad competitor, it's really stylus and not touch, and it's not very polished. But it provides an inexpensive look at the potential of Android on tablets (and it's better than any Pocket PC ever was). RuggedPCReview.com took a detailed look at the Augen GenTouch, including inside. [See full review of the Augen GenTouch78 Android tablet] -- Posted Sunday, August 29, 2010 by chb

Wyse thin clients to use Windows Embedded Standard 7
Wyse Technology announced that it will offer a family of thin clients—the powerful Wyse R90L7, mobile X90c7 and compact C90LE7—using Microsoft Windows Embedded 7. Wyse usually offers various operating systems for each of their hardware solutions, and offering a componentized embedded version of Windows 7 with a good number of next-gen features makes sense. Note, though, that WES 7 comes in a default WS7E version and an extended WS7P version, and we're not sure yet which version Wyse uses. [See Wyse press release] -- Posted Wednesday, August 25, 2010 by chb

Datalogic to host at 2010 AIM Expo in Chicago
Datalogic announced will host the Auto ID Leadership Breakfast on November 2 at the 2010 AIM Expo, held at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare in Chicago. "The Auto ID Leadership Breakfast is a perfect match for Datalogic because it aligns directly with our commitment to guiding the industry forward," said Bill Parnell, president and CEO, Datalogic Scanning. "The Leadership Breakfast provides an opportunity for senior-level management to take part in a high-level, strategic conversation on the intrinsic value of auto ID and mobile IT in businesses today." -- Posted Wednesday, August 25, 2010 by chb

Full review: Handheld Algiz 7
The advent of Intel's Atom processors a couple of years ago made possible a new generation of smaller, lighter and less expensive "netbook" computers that provide adequate performance and functionality for a wide range of applications. Likewise, we're now seeing a new generation of smaller, lighter tablet computers that use similarly targeted technology for vertical market applications. The Algiz 7 by the Handheld Group is such a product--lighter, handier and smaller than full-size tablets. RuggedPCReview.com presents a detailed assessment of the Algiz 7, its features and performance, and its suitability for tough outdoors jobs. [See full review of the Handheld Group Algiz 7] -- Posted Wednesday, August 25, 2010 by chb

Service 800 award for Psion Teklogix
Eleven prominent technology companies received international accolades for exceptional service performance and quality at the Customer Satisfaction Executive Conference, hosted by SERVICE 800, Inc.. Among those recognized for performing at or above industry-wide benchmark levels for five years or more was Psion Teklogix. Good work! [See Business Wire press release] -- Posted Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by chb

Surveying software on DAP Kinysis tablets
The American Surveyer reports on a "New Tool for Highway Surveyors and Engineers Available on Rugged Tablet Computer". What they're talking about is Highway Surveyors’ ReGen software available on DAP Technologies’ rugged Kinysis tablet computer. ReGen is a data collection, survey management, and data optimization tool with a Google Maps interface; the Kinysis is a handy, rugged tablet computer, available in versions with or without integrated keyboard, running Windows Embedded Standard -- Posted Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by chb

Review: Advantech PIT-1501W patient infotainment terminal
Given the ever-escalating costs of healthcare, you'd think hospital patients would be treated like pampered guests at a 5-star hotel. Sadly, that's hardly ever the case, but if companies like Advantech have a say in the matter, hospital patients may soon have entertainment and information options far more satisfying than watching the usual ancient hospital-issue CRT TV bolted to the wall. That's because forward-looking hospitals are starting to install "patient infotainment terminals" like the Advantech PIT-1501W we had in our RuggedPCReview.com lab for a few days. [See full review of the Advantech PIT-1501W patient infotainment terminal] -- Posted Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by chb

GD6000 goes on 2010 Paris to Peking Motor Challenge
Steatite Rugged, a UK supplier of rugged laptop and computing technology, is helping Simon Mackenzie-Smith’s bid to complete the 2010 Paris to Peking Motor Challenge. Mackenzie-Smith, Chairman of UK for Bank of America Merrill Lynch, needed a rugged laptop for the charity trip and Steatite will contribute a General Dynamics Itronix GD6000 laptop for his challenge. Now there's an interesting challenge for a vehicle-rugged computer! -- Posted Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by chb

Australian aged care home chooses Motion C5v tablets
Aiming to be entirely paperless within two years, Australian healthcare organization Jacaranda Village is taking delivery of the Motion Computing C5v Mobile Clinical Assistant (MCA) as it commits itself to mobility solutions. Using i-Care software, electronic medication charts, and the device's wireless functionality, means, according to Jacaranda Village’s chief executive Sue Bowditch, "our staff can spend more time with the residents and still get their work done.” [See Motion press release] -- Posted Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by chb

Advantech reports 43% sales increase for first half 2010
Taiwanese industrial computer maker Advantech reported sales of US$187 million and net profit of US$29.5 for Q2 of 2010, with 27% of revenues contributed by US sales. For the first half of 2010, the companies revenues rose 43% to US$322 million compared to first half 2009 sales. -- Posted Friday, August 20, 2010 by chb

Getac scores big in the land down under
The Ambulance Service of New South Wales, Australia's most populous state, is rolling out the latest version of their VACIS (a popular ambulance medical records system) application on almost 1,000 vehicles. And the mobile computer system the paramedics will use is the Getac V100 rugged convertible tablet computer. The systems are provided through Australian Getac distributor Tough Corp. -- Posted Thursday, August 19, 2010 by chb

New Intel Atoms, and how Oracle is helping Microsoft
So Intel adds a couple of new Atom chips to its growing and rather confusing roster of low-end chips. What do the new D425 and D525 mean for you? And Oracle's suing Google over Android! What's up with that? [read more...] -- Posted Thursday, August 19, 2010 by chb

BSQUARE doing well
Mobile computing pioneers may remember BSQUARE as an early Windows CE software developer as a mobile and embedded systems house. While not too many companies from that era are still around, BSQUARE is, and is doing well. They just reported record earnings of US$26.9 million for Q2 of 2010, and scored a record net income of US$4 million. BSQUARE CEO Brian Crowley reported "a great job of driving sales growth of both Microsoft Embedded and Windows Mobile licenses" and a general "continued momentum in Microsoft Windows Mobile license sales." [See BSQUARE press release] -- Posted Wednesday, August 18, 2010 by chb

AIS releases Power-over-Ethernet Touch Panel PCs
American Industrial Systems (AIS) introduced a line of Power over Ethernet (PoE) touchscreen Panel PCs available in 5.7", 7", and 10.1" compact form factor sizes. Power over Ethernet allows the safe transfer of up to 25.5 watts of electrical power, along with data, to remote devices over standard CAT5 cable in an Ethernet network, without a need to modify the existing cabling infrastructure. AIS PoE wall mount touchscreen terminals are meant to offer cost-effective solutions by bringing power and data transfer via a standard twisted-pair Ethernet cabling in a network for industrial automation, transportation, appliance and digital signage applications. [See AIS press release] -- Posted Wednesday, August 18, 2010 by chb

Toshiba announces Wipe technology for self-encrypting drives
Toshiba announced Wipe for Toshiba Self-Encrypting Drive (SED) models, a technology that allows for sensitive user data to be securely erased when a system is powered-down or when a SED HDD is removed from the system. The feature can also be used to securely erase user data prior to returning a leased system, system disposal or re-purposing. Wipe was created as an enhancement to Toshiba's Self-Encrypting Drive (SED) hard disk drives. [See Toshiba press release] -- Posted Wednesday, August 18, 2010 by chb

Review: Advantech SOM-5788 COM-Express: Embedded Intel Core i5/i7 power
Embedded systems solutions are everywhere in the field. They are built for specific tasks and purposes, and they use computer-on-module technology to quickly supply (and replace) scalable computing power. Intel's Core i5 and Core i7 processors now bring unprecedented performance to those standardized modules. RuggedPCReview took a detailed look at one of the new Intel Core i7-based COM-Express boards from Advantech. [See review of the Advantech SOM-5788 COM-Express module] -- Posted Wednesday, August 18, 2010 by chb

Intel releases two Atom chips with DDR3 SODIMM support
Intel has added two more processors to its growing family of Atom processor products. The single-core Atom D425 and the dual-core Atom D525 both run at 1.8GHz, representing a small step up from the existing 1.6GHz D410 and D510. Thermal Design Power remains at 10 and 13 watts, and the stated quantity prices of US$42 and US$63 is also the same as that of the earlier chips (which, however, enjoy "embedded" status). There is a difference, however: the two new chips support DDR3 SODIMM, and Intel is promoting them for home and small business network storage devices. [See Intel release on Atom D425 and D525] -- Posted Tuesday, August 17, 2010 by chb

General Micro Systems launches rugged embedded field solution
Aimed at avionics and vetronics applications, the new super-compact Golden Eye II by General Micro Systems of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., brings Core 2 Duo power to embedded computing applications such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Weighing just 2.5 pounds, the unit is sealed, outfitted with Mil 38999 connectors, impervious to dust, dirt and salt, and watertight to 10 meters, yet it can accommodate up to 2TB, support legacy systems, and never draws more than 25 watts. -- Posted Saturday, August 14, 2010 by chb

LXE announces Atom/Windows 7 Marathon field computer
LXE announced an interesting new machine. The LXE Marathon field computer picks up the "open book" design that combines a display and a keyboard in a very compact tablet. The Marathon weighs just over two pounds, has a 7-inch outdoor-viewable touchscreen, runs Windows 7 on an Intel Atom processor, and includes a high-res camera, a fingerprint reader that doubles as a mouse, and also offers a wealth of bolt-on accessories such as a mag stripe reader, 2D imager and extended battery for up to 8 and 12-hour operation. The device, which measures about 8 x 7.6 inches, includes Gobi WWAN, 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi and Bluetooth, and is sealed to IP 65 specs. [See LXE press release] -- Posted Friday, August 13, 2010 by chb

Android contemplations
Off the cuff, the way we see it is that Android has a better than even chance of becoming the OS of choice for tablets and other mobile devices. Android is really nothing more than another Linux distribution, but one backed and sort of run by Google. Microsoft, of course, will make the usual argument of leverage and security and integration into other Microsoft products, but the fact is that Linux itself can be at least as secure as anything Microsoft makes. Just look at the Mac OS which is also Unix-based, and Unix is the basis of Linux. [read more...] -- Posted Thursday, August 12, 2010 by chb

Navman Wireless online ROI Calculator for Fleet Tracking
Navman Wireless announced the availability of an interactive ROI calculator enabling fleet managers to instantly determine the potential savings of deploying the Navman Wireless OnlineAVL2 fleet tracking system in a particular organization. The free calculator is online at www.navmanwirelessus.com/roi-calculator.html. -- Posted Wednesday, August 11, 2010 by chb

MobileDemand exhibiting at APWA International
MobileDemand announced it will demonstrate its rugged Tablet PCs at the 2010 APWA International Public Works Congress & Exposition, August 15-18, 2010. [See MobileDemand's listing and 2010 APWA website] -- Posted Wednesday, August 11, 2010 by chb

Xplore financials
Xplore Technologies reported revenues of US$5.1 million for the quarter ending June 30, 2010, a slight increase over the same quarter last year. The company also reported a small operating profit for the quarter, but still a net loss of $0.67 million, down from a net loss of $1.3 million for the same quarter last year. The company said it prepared to launch "a significantly improved and highly anticipated new generation of its iX104 Tablet PC family later this year. Here's what'd be on our wish list: both a Core i5/i7 version and an Atom version; capacitive touch and electromagnetic digitizer; Android and Win 7 OS options. -- Posted Wednesday, August 11, 2010 by chb

Full review: Advantech PPC-157T panel PC
There are numerous industrial and control applications that require rugged panel PCs. RuggedPCReview.com tested the Advantech PPC-157T, a versatile industrial panel computer from an experienced Taiwanese embedded and industrial systems manufacturer. The 15-inch panel offers good performance with a 2.16GHz Core 2 Duo processor, comes with your choice of touchscreen (resistive, capacitive or WAV), and offers excellent onboard connectivity, including extensive legacy support. [See review of the Advantech PPC-157T panel PC] -- Posted Monday, August 9, 2010 by chb

Motion and Bluebeam host seminar for construction professionals
Design and construction professionals looking for new ways to cut costs during closeout will have a unique learning opportunity next week. Bluebeam Software, the developer of PDF solutions for the architecture, engineering and construction industry, and Motion Computing are teaming up to present a case study webinar titled, "Take PDF Punchlists Mobile with Tablet PCs." For more information or to register visit: www.motioncomputing.com/promotions/webinars.asp -- Posted Monday, August 9, 2010 by chb

Review: Advantech PCM-3362 PC/104-plus module
The inexpensive Advantech PCM-3362 is a fanless Intel Atom N450-powered PC/104-Plus single Board Computer suitable for a variety of rugged embedded projects that require both state-of-the-art technology as well as small size (just 3.5 x 3.8 inches) and both PCI and ISA support. Note that these sturdy modules are actually stackable, offering excellent versatility and expansion potential. Extended operating temperature range versions are available. [See review and specs of the Advantech PCM-3362] -- Posted Saturday, August 7, 2010 by chb

Rugged DLI 8300 tablets help Denver Regional Transportation District
In an article titled "Tablet Computer Drives Improvements To Public Transit System," Field Technologies Online describes how DLI 8300 rugged tablet computers are used in the Denver Regional Transportation District's Call-N-Ride service. [Read article] -- Posted Friday, August 6, 2010 by chb

LXE has its best sales quarter since 2008
EMS Technologies reported Q2 2010 sales of US$88.5 million and net earnings of US$4.2 million. EMS subsidiary LXE had its best sales quarter since 2008, with US$36.4 million in revenues, up 19% from Q1 and 22% higher than Q2 2009. LXE shipped more mobile computers in Q2 of 2010 than any other quarter in its history. This revenue improvement was mainly due to a resurgent North American market. International revenues also increased but at a lower rate, pressured by a weaker Euro. CEO Neil Mackay said while LXE has historically focused on data comms and asset monitoring over LANs in in warehouses and such, their new WWAN-enabled mobile computers will open up new opportunities in field force automation and will complement EMS solutions in global tracking, aviation and defense. -- Posted Thursday, August 5, 2010 by chb

IP67 - What is the real requirement?
Interesting discussion on Psion Teklogix's Ingenuity Working community blog on the pros and cons of IP67. [Read the IP67 - What is the real requirement? discussion] -- Posted Wednesday, August 4, 2010 by chb

General Dynamics Itronix introduces Android-based GD300 wearable computer
General Dynamics Itronix announced the GD300, a small wearable computer that combines rugged computing, GPS and data communication into one device specifically designed to provide access to tactical networks and enhance situational awareness. Interestingly, the GD300, which has a 3.5-inch 800 x 480 pixel touch display, runs the Android OS, making it probably the first ruggedized device from a major provider to use Android instead of Windows CE/Mobile. [See description and specs of the General Dynamics Itronix GD300] -- Posted Tuesday, August 3, 2010 by chb

Advantech launches two rugged 5.7" and 12" fanless touch panels
Advantech has introduced two new fanless touch panel PCs. The Intel Atom powered TPC-651H (5.7-inch VGA display) and TPC-1251H (12.1-inch SVGA display) touch panels have a very wide -4 to 140F operating temperature range, IP65 frontside sealing, carry Energy Star certification, run Windows XP/XPe/CE, and offer superb connectivity including complete isolation protection for the units' serial ports. -- Posted Monday, August 2, 2010 by chb

Panasonic and Reality Mobile partner for video solutions
Panasonic Solutions Company (PSC) and mobile video collaboration software company Reality Mobile, have partnered to provide government agencies with improved technology for situational awareness and crisis response, using Toughbook U1 tablets with RealityVision software to securely send and receive live video streamed over wireless networks including cellular and satellite. [See press release] -- Posted Monday, August 2, 2010 by chb

Intermec reports net loss, but slight sales increase
Intermec's Q2 2010 revenues were US$161.2 million with a net loss of US$2.7 million, compared to 2009 Q2 revenues of US$157.7 million and a net loss of US$6.5 million. Among product lines, systems and solutions revenue was flat, service was down, and printers and media were up. [See Intermec Q2 2010 financials] -- Posted Friday, July 30, 2010 by chb

Datalogic reports sales and earnings growth
Datalogic has reported the fifth consecutive quarter of profit growth. Q2 2010 sales reached US$132 million (up 33.3% from Q2 of 2009 and up 13.2% from Q1 of 2010), with a net profit of US$9.3 million (compared to a loss of US$11.7 million in Q2 of 2009 and up by 72.2% on Q1 of 2010). The first half of 2010 closed with consolidated sales revenues of US$248.6 million, up by +28% vs. the first half of last year (results converted from Euros at 7/30/2010 exchange rate) -- Posted Friday, July 30, 2010 by chb

Webinar: The New Motion J3500 Overview
On August 10, 2010, Motion Computing offers a free webinar explaining the features and benefits of the new Motion J3500 tablet computer. RuggedPCReview.com recently reviewed the Motion J3500 (see here) and came away more than impressed with the new machine's speed and amazingly useful dual-touch technology that combines iPad-style capacitive touch with the precision of a Wacom electromagnetic digitizer. Those in the market for a J3500 note: attend the webinar and get US$500 off a new Motion J3500! [Register] -- Posted Thursday, July 29, 2010 by chb

Outsourcing to Taiwan
Most remaining Japanese computer makers proudly display their "Made in Japan" labels, but high production costs in Japan are putting increasing pressure to move manufacturing elsewhere. According to Taiwanese tech news agency Digitimes, Fujitsu plans to increase its outsourcing of low cost notebooks to Taiwanese makers, bringing total notebook outsourcing to Taiwan from 30% in 2009 to almost 50% in 2010. -- Posted Thursday, July 29, 2010 by chb

MobileDemand Tablet PC used by the Red Bull Racing NASCAR Teams
Rugged Tablet PC provider MobileDemand is sponsoring the red Bull Racing NASCAR team . The Red Bull team is using MobileDemand's rugged xTablet T7000 Tablet PC to provide mission-critical data collection and computing right on the spot, where it matters most. The video shows how the red Bull racing team is using the tablets. Also see MobileDemand Tablet PC Used by the Red Bull Racing NASCAR Teams. -- Posted Wednesday, July 28, 2010 by chb

Synaptics ClearPad 7200 Series
Synaptics announced its ClearPad 7200 Series technology geared towards OEMs designing a wide range of multi-touch (up to 10 simultaneous touches) products such as clamshell notebooks, slates/tablets, and "fourth screen" devices like digital photo frames and electronics readers. Designed to support glass-based screens up to 10.1", the ClearPad 7200 Series uses a multi-ASIC based architecture and supports both I2C and USB interface.
-- Posted Tuesday, July 27, 2010 by chb

RRC to Distribute Intermec Solutions in Russia and CIS
Intermec has entered into a distribution agreement with international IT distributor RRC. The relationship will strengthen Intermec's distribution channel and enable resellers and systems integrators in Russia and CIS to join the recently launched global PartnerNet program and experience a wide range of benefits, from training, project registration, joint marketing and account management support. [See Intermec press release] -- Posted Tuesday, July 27, 2010 by chb

Full review: Fujitsu's tiny UH900 mini-notebook
What is a big full-size notebook is much too big, and even a handy netbook is still too large, but you do need full Windows 7 functionality and a high-res screen? Then you should look at the Fujitsu UH900 mini-notebook. The little 1-pound marvel, powered by a 1.6GHz Intel Atom Z530 chip, sports incredible 1280 x 800 pixel resolution on its jewel-like 5.6-inch display, offers multi-touch, has a full-function keyboard and a speedy 62GB solid state disk, onboard Garmin Mobile PC GPS, and good connectivity, both wired and wireless. And even the price is not out of line. So how well does it all work? [Read full review of the Fujitsu Lifebook UH900] -- Posted Tuesday, July 27, 2010 by chb

Microsoft licenses ARM architecture
ARM and Microsoft announced that they have signed a new licensing agreement for the ARM architecture. The agreement extends the collaborative relationship between the two companies. Since 1997 Microsoft and ARM have worked together on software and devices across the embedded, consumer and mobile spaces, enabling many companies to deliver user experiences on a broad portfolio of ARM-based products. [See press release] -- Posted Friday, July 23, 2010 by chb

Socket Mobile reports Q2 2010 financials
Socket Mobile reported revenue for Q2 of 2010 was US$3.7 million, compared to revenue of US$4.1 million for the same quarter a year ago. Net loss for Q2 of 2010 was $575,000, compared to a net loss of $945,000 in Q2 of 2009. Kevin Mills, president and CEO, commented, "Our SoMo 650 handheld computer continues to gain increasing customer acceptance and traction in the business mobility market and generated record sales in the second quarter. Handheld computer sales were up 19% over the previous quarter and up 9% over the second quarter a year ago, and represented 48 percent of our second quarter revenues. -- Posted Friday, July 23, 2010 by chb

Datalogic tracks baggage in Italy's busiest airport
Datalogic announced it has realized 30 omnidirectional reading tunnels to improve baggage handling for the Leonardo da Vinci airport in Rome, Fiumicino--the busiest Italian airport with four terminals and over 33 million passengers a year. Datalogic-powered reading stations for baggage handover and pick-up points are in all the airport terminals, thus managing to gather useful data on each piece of baggage and to monitor its movements. [See press release] -- Posted Thursday, July 22, 2010 by chb

Intermec and Epicor announce alliance
Epicor Software Corporation and Intermec announced an expanded global alliance to deliver mobile computing solutions. Intermec also recently named Epicor as a Platinum Partner, which is the highest level of recognition given to members of the newly launched Intermec PartnerNet Program. [See press release] -- Posted Thursday, July 22, 2010 by chb

Juniper introduces the Mesa Rugged Notepad
If the new Mesa Rugged Notepad by Juniper Systems looks large, it's because it is. Aiming to offer the best of Tablet PCs and a rugged handhelds (but none of the drawbacks), the Marvell PXA320-powered Mesa runs Windows Mobile 6.5.3 on its exceptionally large 5.7-inch VGA display. Larger size means larger battery, too, and the Mesa runs up to 16 hours on a charge. Add to that exceptional ruggedness and IP67 sealing, and you have an interesting option for any number of outdoor jobs that require a bit of extra screen real estate. [See description and specs of the Juniper Systems Mesa Rugged Notepad] -- Posted Wednesday, July 21, 2010 by chb

Carrefour adds Datalogic rugged handhelds
Carrefour, the largest retailer in Europe and the second largest retailer in the world, teamed up with Datalogic Mobile for the supply of mobile computers in its retail stores. This time, the Memor and Falcon handheld devices will be used for Carrefour’s retail in-store solutions. [See Datalogic press release] -- Posted Wednesday, July 21, 2010 by chb

New Summit software makes DFS channels viable for roaming clients
Summit Data Communication announced a software upgrade that makes the 5 GHz frequency band with its up to 23 non-overlapping channels more attractive for business-critical mobile devices by now offering accelerated passive scanning to greatly reduce the time to roam between WiFi APs in environments where some channels require dynamic frequency selection (DFS). -- Posted Wednesday, July 21, 2010 by chb

AIS releases CAN-bus industrial Panel PCs
American Industrial Systems (AIS) introduced a line of Industrial Touch Screen Panel PCs featuring CAN-bus (controller-area network) interface support for industrial automation, marine, and automotive applications. Offering Intel chips from Atom to quad core, the Operator Panel PCs feature 5.7 to 20.1-inch industrial grade LCDs, and a variety of touchscreen technologies (resistive, capacitive, surface acoustic wave (SAW), and Infrared) to meet demands in various environments. -- Posted Tuesday, July 20, 2010 by chb

RuggedPCReview.com attending SIGGRAPH 2010
RuggedPCReview.com is headed for SIGGRAPH 2010 in LA to get a heads-up on emerging developments in advanced graphics that are becoming ever more important in rugged computing. Contributing Editor Taylor Allread will seek and examine technologies, both hardware and software, that are either dedicated to rugged and hazardous environment usage or are already deployed in the field. and to report about their progress. -- Posted Tuesday, July 20, 2010 by chb

SuperShuttle selects NEXCOM tablets
SuperShuttle International, the nation's largest shared ride airport shuttle company, along with NEXCOM has begun rolling out the tablets to all its franchise drivers. The tablets, which appear to be Atom Z530-powered NEXCOM 2100 Series models with 8.4-inch SVGA displays, are expected to enhance customer service by providing prompt pickup service and efficient routing, on-board promotion, convenient billing, onboard navigation, etc. -- Posted Monday, July 19, 2010 by chb

Motion offering enhanced tablet functionality with ritePen 4.0
Motion Computing announced that it will resell ritePen 4.0, the latest tablet input solution from Ritescript, a division of Evernote Corporation -- Posted Monday, July 19, 2010 by chb

In-Stat sees slow adoption of 4G wireless
In-Stat predicts that almost 70% of all mobile devices will be WWAN-enabled by 2014. However, the transition to 4G wireless technology will be slow, with just 3.6% of WWAN-enabled devices using it by 2014. And despite the early 4G lead of WiMAX, the rivaling LTE technology will have over 60% marketshare in 4G-enabled device by 2014. -- Posted Thursday, July 15, 2010 by chb

Anoto survey shows paper-based forms still widely used
Swedish Anoto firmly believes that paper isn't dead by a long shot, and that paper forms will be with us for some time to come. However, that doesn't mean Anoto is resisting progress. Au contraire; Anoto's unique digital pen technology represents one of the fastest and most reliable ways of converting handwritten text into a digital format. In essence, the pen knows the form you're using, records whatever is written, then downloads it into a computer. This way you have both print and digital copy. -- Posted Wednesday, July 14, 2010 by chb

Datalogic Mobile releases OS White Paper
Datalogic Mobile announced the release of a new white paper Rugged Mobile Computers - Which Operating System is Right for You? In rugged or semi-rugged mobile devices targeted at vertical applications, the OS of choice has been Microsoft Windows CE. However, over the past several years, new OS platform options have emerged that have made the mobile operating system landscape more complicated. Request Rugged Mobile Computers - Which Operating System is Right for You? white paper] -- Posted Tuesday, July 13, 2010 by chb

LifeRing PDA-COP system receives DISA certification
LifeRing, the PDA SOF TactiCell command control and communication software from Advanced Ground Information Systems, has received DISA (Defense Information Systems Agency) certification with 100% ratings for Blue Force Tracking, map white-boarding, instant messaging and full-motion video. According to the company, "AGIS LifeRing is designed to meet the differing demands of the military, government agencies and first responders. It operates simultaneously on cellular, mesh networks, satellite--and military and first responder radios." [See AGIS PDA (we wish they'd update the featured hardware, though)] -- Posted Tuesday, July 13, 2010 by chb

Avalue introduces 10-inch Digital Signage Computer
Avalue Technology has introduced the fanless MPC-10W5 Digital Signage Computer for small panel installations. Powered by a 1.66GHz Intel Atom D510 processor, the MPC-10W5 has a wide-format 10.2-inch WSVGA resistive touch screen, a front-mounted LED indicator alarm, full-aluminum housing with IP65-sealed front panel, miniPCIe and CF slots for expansion, and optional PIR, CIR, light sensor and RFID are available. The device weighs less than three pounds and is less than two inches thick. -- Posted Monday, July 12, 2010 by chb

Garmin beats back another invalid patent
Garmin announced it has beaten back another invalid asserted by a non-practicing patent holding company. "We are pleased with this judgment – it reaffirms our belief that courts are willing to take decisive action against bad patents when presented with solid evidence of their invalidity. Companies like Garmin, that employ innovators, manufacture products, and sell goods in the market, should not be forced to settle lawsuits that assert patents that never should have issued from the Patent Office," said Andrew Etkind, Garmin’s Vice President and General Counsel. -- Posted Saturday, July 10, 2010 by chb

Trimble partners with Timmons on Wetland Delineation System
Trimble announced it has partnered with Timmons Group to provide an integrated system for the field collection, management, and submittal of wetland delineation data. The solution combines Trimble Mapping & GIS handhelds with the WetCollect wetland delineation software from Timmons Group to comply with the reporting requirements of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE). -- Posted Friday, July 9, 2010 by chb

Psion Teklogix unveils global partner program
Psion Teklogix announced a new global Partner Program focused on open innovation that aims to let Psion’s VARs, systems integrators, application providers and resellers leverage the best parts of existing mobile devices and customized proprietary devices. The Partner Program will offer the company’s set of tools, features and services, including discounts, marketing materials and funds, technical support and training. -- Posted Thursday, July 8, 2010 by chb

MobileDemand launches Public Sector Group
MobileDemand, a leading provider of rugged Tablet PC computers for mission-critical computing, announced the formation of its Public Sector Services Group focused on the development and deployment of mission-critical applications and solutions for federal, state and local governments. With, according to analyst firm VDC, the field service mobility market growing by an annual rate of 13% through 2013, MobileDemand President Matt Miller is confident that his company's lineup of rugged Tablet PCs can offer ultra-mobility, reliable performance and exceptional efficiency to public sector agencies. The new group will concentrate on public safety, including law enforcement, emergency management, fire investigation, building code compliance, homeland security, etc. MobileDemand also announced its Application Development Partner Program aimed at helping VARs develop solutions for rugged tablets that are field-ready and compliant with public sector specs. [See our review of the MobileDemand xTablet T7000] -- Posted Wednesday, July 7, 2010 by chb

Android facing challenges
It's like the historic Apple versus Microsoft wars all over again, only this time it's Apple's iOS versus Google's Android. Once again it's Apple's proprietary hardware and software challenged by a copycat OS available to any hardware vendor who wants to use it. Google's involvement, of course, means Android can count on considerable resources, but there are inherent problems to the Android "open system" approach. Read this excellent article by Tim Bajarin of Creative Strategies on The Trials and Tribulations of Team Android. -- Posted Tuesday, July 6, 2010 by chb

Samwell sponsors Delta Lloyd Solar Boat Team
Samwell, makers of the RUGGEDBOOK line of rugged notebooks, convertibles, and tablets, announced its sponsorship of the Dutch Delta Lloyd Solar Boat Team. The team, a student project at the Technical University of Delft, has been successful in prior Frisian Solar Boat challenges, also known as the World Cup for Solar Powered Boats. Samwell supplied its RUGGEDBOOK Rugged Tablet PC SR820 to the team for tracking and performance monitoring. [See RUGGEDBOOK newsletter] -- Posted Tuesday, July 6, 2010 by chb

Datalogic invests in vision-based technology
Datalogic announced the acquisition, through its subsidiary Datalogic Scanning Holdings Inc., of Evolution Robotics Retail, a California company with unique expertise in visual pattern recognition technology, including scanning-based loss prevention systems that can do item-level recognition and alerts even if a code wasn't scanned. Datalogic says the acquisition provides for a broadening of their solution-based offerings, adds an innovative and key technological capability and offers a high-growth business prospect. -- Posted Tuesday, July 6, 2010 by chb

RadiSys announces ruggedized ATCA C2 server
Not all mobile systems are, in fact, mobile as in carrying around. Some are designed to facilitate and support a mobile computing and communication infrastructure out there in the field. ATCA (Advanced Telecommunications Computing Architecture) falls into that category, and RadiSys has just introduced their Promentum C2 Server, which it calls the industry's first ruggedized ATCA platform for mobile command and control. The C2 Server has a ruggedized chassis meeting many MIL-STD-810 tests as well as providing higher performance platform with less weight and lower power consumption. [See RadiSys Promentum C2 Server] -- Posted Friday, July 2, 2010 by chb

Arista updates industrial Panel PCs
Fremont, Calif. based Arista Corp. introduced an update to its ARP-2200 series of rugged industrial panel computers. The new ARP-2200AP series comes with 15, 17, or 19 inch displays, and also a special model with a giant 42-inch display. All but the 42-inch product are available either with Intel Core Duo processors of a power-efficient VIA C7 chip. Designed for fanless operation, these new Arista panel PCs are geared for applications including automation, manufacturing, medical, semiconductor, food processing, machine control and more. [Read description and specs of the Arista ARP-2200AP series or view press release] -- Posted Wednesday, June 30, 2010 by chb

Panasonic makes rugged cameras, too
If you need a rugged camera to go along with your Panasonic Toughbook, Panasonic makes them, too. And the ruggedness specs are actually remarkably similar: the Panasonic Lumix TS2 compact camera has a 6.6-foot drop spec, can handle operating temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit, and it's waterproof. Much more so than any Toughbook, actually: you can take it down to a depth of 33 feet without protective housing! We gave the US$399 Lumix TS2 a good workout in the cold waters off the California Channel Islands. [Read full review of the Panasonic Lumix TS2] -- Posted Wednesday, June 30, 2010 by chb

Novatel Wireless introduces LTE PCIe embedded modules
Novatel Wireless introduced its LTE Embedded Module roster with the Expedite E351, E362 and E371 PCIe mini cards. The Expedite E351 provides multimode support for LTE and EV-DO Rev. A and backward compatibility for all CDMA networks. The E362 adds global roaming capabilities with support of LTE, EV-DO Rev. A, HSPA+, UMTS and backward compatibility to existing 2G/3G GSM and CDMA networks. The E371 provides support for LTE with backward compatibility to dual carrier HSPA+, UMTS, EDGE and GPRS. -- Posted Tuesday, June 29, 2010 by chb

New GD-Itronix Tadpole ultra thin-clients offer simplicity, security, and economical operation
General Dynamics Itronix expanded its line of Tadpole ultra-thin clients with the new netbook-sized M1000, the compact notebook-size M1500, and two wireless desktop units, the Pulsar and Pulsar Premium. Not having local storage or software, wireless clients offer a very secure and easily managed computing environment that can result in economical operation and reduced total cost of ownership. See description and specs of the Tadpole M1000 and Tadpole M1500] -- Posted Monday, June 28, 2010 by chb

AIS releases inexpensive Windows CE touch panel PC
American Industrial Systems Inc. (AIS) introduced a small, rugged 5.7-inch industrial Windows CE 5.0-based touchscreen computer intended for use as an IP64-sealed operator panel PC and graphic operator interface terminal. The VGA display features a bright 400 nits backlight and a resistive digitizer. Pricing for VARs starts at an exceptionally low US$399. [See description and specs of the AIS PM570M] -- Posted Friday, June 25, 2010 by chb

Moto releases tiny 1D Bluetooth laser scanner
Motorola has released what may turn out to be a very relevant product in the tiny CS3000 Series 1D laser scanner. Measuring a minuscule 3.4 x 1.95 x 0.87 inches and weighing just 2.5 ounces, the ruggedized little scanner, that uses the SE955 scan engine, can operate both in batch and real-time capture modes, where it communicates with almost any notebook, PDA or smartphone via Class Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR. Its 512MB Flash memory can store over a million time/date-stamped bar codes, and the rechargeable battery lasts up to 24 hours. [See Motorola CS3000 Series spec sheet] -- Posted Thursday, June 24, 2010 by chb

New print-style PDFs of reviews available
Yes, we still know how to use Quark XPress to generate nice print-style layouts, and we generally do those for most major reviews. The latest ones available are for the Motion Computing J3500, Juniper Systems TK6000, Getac PS535F, Getac PS236, GD-Itronix Tadpole Topaz, and Samwell Ruggedbook 820. -- Posted Thursday, June 24, 2010 by chb

LXE Europe unveils 2010 Partners Award Winners
At its LXE PartnerPass Executive Conference held June 8 and 9, 2010, in Berlin, Germany, LXE recognized the performance of its top European partners as follows: Best Premier Partner: Lexter - Italy; Best Preferred Partner: Renovotec - UK; Best Business Partner: Goodtech Products; Best Marketing Partner: Experteam - Switzerland; Top New Market Development: L-mobile solutions - Germany; and Partner of the Year: RMS.LU - Luxemburg. -- Posted Wednesday, June 23, 2010 by chb

Full review: Motion's new J3500 tablet with capacitive dual touch
Motion Computing has introduced the rugged Motion J3500 tablet, a sleek, slender, full-featured, full-power tablet computer featuring an approximately 40% overall performance increase compared to the predecessor model courtesy of an ultra low voltage Intel Core i7 processor that incurs no penalty in battery life. The new machine also offers Motion's new capacitive dual touch, automatically combining capacitive touch and a Wacom digitizer. Add Gobi2000, a high res camera, more memory and larger disks, and you have a very impressive tablet. [Read full review of the Motion Computing J3500] -- Posted Tuesday, June 22, 2010 by chb

Motorola introduces ES400 Enterprise Digital Assistant
The Enterprise Mobility Solutions division of Motorola introduced the ES400 Enterprise Digital Assistant. Fitting somewhere between a consumer smartphone and a ruggedized handheld, the ES400 is aimed squarely at enterprise users in field sales/service, retail, healthcare, etc. The ES400 runs Windows Mobile 6.5 with a custom front end, has WiFi, GPS, a 3.2mp camera that can also scan, and 3.5G WWAN for both the GSM and the CDMA side. With the iPhone having redefined expectations, the question is whether this sort of category-busting convergent device is what users want. [Read more...] -- Posted Friday, June 18, 2010 by chb

RuggedPCReview at the Handheld Group Business Partner Conference, Stockholm, Sweden, June 2-4, 2010
The Handheld Group had its annual Business Partner Conference June 2 through 4th, 2010, at the Elite Hotel Marina Tower in Stockholm, Sweden. The conference provided a venue to socialize with business partners and inform them on products, outlook and opportunities. RuggedPCReview.com was there, and here is our report. [read more...] -- Posted Friday, June 18, 2010 by chb

Datalogic Mobile and Ford Performance Racing form partnership
Ford Performance Racing (FPR), the primary, manufacturer-backed Ford team in the Australian V8 Supercar Championship Series, has formed a technical partnership with rugged data collection mobile computer maker Datalogic Mobile. Datalogic Mobile devices will be used throughout the FPR business, and Datalogic Mobile will assist with advice and solutions to expand mobility and exploit efficiencies both on and off the track. -- Posted Friday, June 18, 2010 by chb

Juniper Systems to sponsor 2010 ESRI UC Forestry SIG
Juniper Systems is proud to announce its sponsorship of the ESRI User Conference Forestry SIG. A schedule of events can be found by at Juniper Systems Sponsors ESRI User Conference Forestry SIG. The ESRI Forestry SIG meeting will demonstrate how Juniper Systems and ESRI products can enhance forestry data collection methods. Attendees will be the first to see the latest addition to Juniper Systems suite of rugged handheld computers, along with the opportunity to enter an exciting drawing. -- Posted Friday, June 18, 2010 by chb

DLI upgrades its rugged tablets
LaPorte, In. based DLI announced it has upgraded its line of rugged tablet computers with new HiBrite LED display technology that combines reduced internal reflection, enhanced polarization coating and a stronger backlight (up to 900 nits) to increase effective contrast ratio by a factor of 1.6x while using no more power than older CCFL displays (available in the DLI 8300 rugged tablet and 8400 ultra-mobile tablet). In addition, standard displays now also get LED backlighting, and DLI is integrating Wacom's Penabled digitizer touch screen technology in the DLI 8300, 8400 and 8800 Mobile POS Tablet. -- Posted Thursday, June 17, 2010 by chb

HP completes purchase of Phoenix's Linux-based quick-boot OS
Phoenix Technologies has sold its HyperSpace, HyperCore and Phoenix Flip instant-on technology to HP for US$12 million. Phoenix had developed the Linux-based system for people who were tired of waiting for Windows to boot. Instead, HyperCore allowed almost instant start-up and access to browsing and other core functions, while also running Windows. Phoenix apparently wasn't able to get traction with it, but HP, with aspirations in the emerging tablet market, may be able to build on the technology. [See Phoenix release] -- Posted Wednesday, June 16, 2010 by chb

JLT releases new version of its rugged JLT8404 tablet
Swedish rugged computing manufacturer JLT began shipping an updated version of its rugged JLT8404 tablet. The primary change seems to be a switch from the 1.1GHz Intel Atom Z510, which we always considered a bit underpowered for this class of tablet, with the ubiquitous 1.6GHz Atom N270 that's successfully used in millions of netbooks. Based on RuggedPCReview.com's benchmark library, we expect a 40-50% performance increase. The new version is available with Windows 7 and a Sierra Wireless WAN module. -- Posted Wednesday, June 16, 2010 by chb

Canada Post to deploy more than 8,000 Intermec CN50s
Intermec announced that Canada Post, the official postal service of Canada, has selected the Intermec CN50 to equip more than 8,000 foot-based letter carriers to provide timely delivery information to customers for all traceable items via real-time upload of scanned data. Through its EA21 scanner and 3G radio, the CN50 can communicate with the Canada Post Central Delivery Information Application to provide data capture and delivery processes as part of a transformational Canada Post program to modernize its postal network end to end. -- Posted Wednesday, June 16, 2010 by chb

Zebra releases all-in-one printer/handheld for Motorola MC70/75
Zebra Technologies Corp. announced the new RW 420 Print Station (model RW4-PS), a printer and hand-held in one unit that's capable of supporting the Motorola MC70 and MC75 handheld terminals. The thermal RW 420 can be operated between -4 and 131 degrees Fahrenheit, weighs just over three pounds, and prints 4-inch paper at 3"/second. [See Zebra RW 420 Print Station page] -- Posted Tuesday, June 15, 2010 by chb

Black Diamond delivers rugged handheld dual-iris capture biometrics device
Black Diamond Advanced Technology has designed and delivered to Northrop Grumman a ruggedized, identity-management system for secure and efficient multi-modal biometrics collection in the field. Called the BioTRAC, the advanced multi-biometric, mobile handheld computer features IriTech's new embedded-processor dual-iris camera system, which is capable of outdoor, independent dual-iris image capture in less than 5 seconds on a rugged platform. -- Posted Monday, June 14, 2010 by chb

Healthcare IT leaders merge
Allscripts, a major provider of clinical software, information and connectivity solutions for physicians, and Eclipsys, a major enterprise provider of solutions and services for hospitals and clinicians, announced an agreement to merge in a stock transaction valued at approximately US$1.3 billion. The combined client base includes 1,500 hospitals and 180,000 physicians, and is certain to have an impact on the rugged mobile tablet and MCA market. [See press release] -- Posted Monday, June 14, 2010 by chb

Avnet signs distribution agreement with GD-Itronix
Avnet Technology Solutions, an operating group of US$7 billion Avnet, Inc., and General Dynamics Itronix announced a pan-European distribution agreement for GD-Itronix's wireless, rugged computing solutions, including rugged laptops, tablet PCs and Ultra Mobile PCs. The agreement enables Avnet to distribute the full GDI product portfolio of rugged mobile solutions through Avnet's extensive network of business partners, including system developers and VARs throughout Europe, Turkey and Russia. [Read Avnet press release] -- Posted Monday, June 14, 2010 by chb

Editors abuse Getac computers!
What happens when a bunch of editors visit the Getac facilities in Taipei during the Computex trade show? They abuse Getac rugged notebooks, tablets and handhelds. See the results in this YouTube video. -- Posted Monday, June 14, 2010 by chb

Zebra Enterprise Solutions World conference San Francisco Sept. 26-29, 2010
Zebra Technologies announced details for Solutions World 2010, the eighth biennial conference focused on technology advancements in marine terminal operations and supply chain logistics. Formerly known as Navis World, the user-conference is now Zebra Enterprise Solutions World and will be held September 26-29, 2010, at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. Supporters and partners include rugged computer manufacturers Motorola, DRS Technologies and LXE. [See conference page] -- Posted Tuesday, June 8, 2010 by chb

Socket Mobile scanners for use with iPad/iPhone
Socket Mobile announced Apple iPhone/iPad/iPod touch OS 4 compatibility for the Socket Bluetooth Cordless Hand Scanner (CHS) 7X and its antimicrobial equivalent, the CHS 7XRx. Both are lightweight, portable, state-of-the-art 1D/2D barcode scanners that fit a diverse set of application requirements in a range of industries including healthcare, hospitality, retail, automotive and the public sector. [See video of how the scanners work with the iPhone] -- Posted Tuesday, June 8, 2010 by chb

Psion Teklogix and Mobile Tornado brings Push-to services to rugged devices
Psion Teklogix and Mobile Tornado announced that Psion Teklogix will now resell and support Mobile Tornado's "Push-to" technology on its rugged mobile computers. This partnership will enable organizations to communicate with, alert and locate workers via Psion Teklogix’s handheld computers at the push of a button reducing costs, increasing efficiency and improving safety. -- Posted Tuesday, June 8, 2010 by chb

Black Diamond and CTI wearable computer for Israeli military
Black Diamond Advanced Technology, makers of the SwitchBack, has been awarded the production and manufacturing contract from Computech International (CTI) for a ruggedized, wearable tactical computer system for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The production award follows a successful prototype phase, which began in January 2009 and culminated in a successful 6-month end-user evaluation. The Digital Army Computer System (DACS) will be deployed by the IDF in late 2010. [See press release] -- Posted Monday, June 7, 2010 by chb

Avalue releases rugged Intel Atom D510-based IPC
Industrial computer manufacturer Avalue Technology has released a series of new rugged embedded system in its ERS- series industrial PCs for use in vehicles as well as industrial and military equipment. The 5.5-pound ERS-PNV-510 is especially interesting with its dual core Intel Atom D510 processor and generous onboard I/O (5 USB, 3 serial, 2 LAN, video, mini-PCIe, etc.). The platform is also available with single core Atom D410 or N450 processors. [See Avalue ERSPNV-510 product page] -- Posted Monday, June 7, 2010 by chb