Where do rugged computers come from?
Where do rugged computers come from? Not always where you think. In an increasingly global marketplace the old system of companies designing, making, selling and servicing their products is increasingly going by the wayside. RuggedPCReview.com looks at some of the new business models. [Read Where do rugged computers come from?] -- Posted Wednesday, July 1, 2009 by chb

Rugged radio? You bet!
When we think "rugged" we generally mean tough, durable computers. However, there are also special radio modules for use in rugged applications. FreeWave Technologies, which makes high-performance spread spectrum and licensed radios for critical data transmission, announced the LRS455 radio that due to superior RF propagation characteristics (430-470 MHz at 2 watts), is ideal for rugged and heavily treed terrain applications in oil and gas, water/wastewater, electric and municipality markets. Check FreeWave's LRS455 Industrial Radio] -- Posted Tuesday, June 30, 2009 by chb

Motion J3400 tablet now available with new Intel SU9600 CPU
Motion Computing has a long history of always quickly making the latest processors available to their customers. They did it again by offering the just released 1.6GHz Intel Core 2 Duo SU9600 in their flagship J3400 tablet (see full review of the J3400). The new processor, which has the same low 10 watt thermal design power of the 1.4GHz SU9400 that remains available, should make the already quick J3400 tablet even faster with little or no impact on battery life. [Read press release] -- Posted Tuesday, June 30, 2009 by chb

Rugged Juniper Archer handheld now with Hemisphere sub-meter GPS
The Juniper Systems Archer Field PC—which provides full Windows Mobile functionality and excellent connectivity in a virtually indestructable device—is now available with a special version of the Hemisphere GPS XF101 receiver that fully integrates with the handheld to deliver sub-meter DGPS to location-based applications in the most demanding environments. [Read full description and specs of the Archer Field PC/Hemisphere XF101 DGPS] -- Posted Friday, June 26, 2009 by chb

Trimble launches online rover tracking service in US
Trimble announced that it has launched Trimble VRS-iScope service in the U.S. The add-on service offers Trimble VRS Now subscribers in Florida, Iowa, Illinois and Colorado the ability to track and manage their assets in real time, as well as view their session history and rover information. {See info on Trimble VRS iScope] -- Posted Friday, June 26, 2009 by chb

New Parvus website: rugged look and feel
There's no doubt that the look and feel of a company's website has an impact on sales today. Klutzy, clumsy, sluggish websites with tons of Flash are a turn-off whereas cleanly designed logical, easy-to-navigate sites are a strategic advantage. Rugged COTS computing supplier Parvus knows that and redesigned its corporate website with a "rugged" look-and-feel, improved navigation, and focus on Parvus' military and aerospace products and expertise. -- Posted Thursday, June 25, 2009 by chb

Psion Teklogix upgrades its Mobile Control Center software
Psion Teklogix announced an upgrade to its device management software, Mobile Control Center (MCC), which enables customers to manage their Psion Teklogix and non-Psion devices remotely, more efficiently and economically. With the new MCC version 6.03 customers can assemble data on battery status, GPS location, WiFi signal strength or any other type of data that needs to be gathered for later reporting. -- Posted Thursday, June 18, 2009 by chb

Remote management of Datamax-O'Neil printers via Motorola MSP
Datamax-O’Neil announced that its line of portable printers will be enabled to operate within Motorola’s Mobility Services Platform (MSP) environment, providing remote management capabilities to maximize uptime and utilization among mobile workers. Motorola’s MSP is a comprehensive enterprise mobility management solution that can control up to 100,000 mobile devices across an enterprise’s network around the world. -- Posted Tuesday, June 16, 2009 by chb

Sundt Construction picks Motion F5
Motion Computing announced that Sundt Construction has selected the Motion F5 Rugged Tablet PC for use on its jobsites. Sundt, which managed historical projects such as the relocation of the London Bridge to Arizona and the construction of Launch Pad 39-A at Cape Canaveral, chose the Motion F5 tablet PC because of its rugged design and integrated features, allowing Sundt’s project personnel to spend more time in the field, observing and managing the efforts of subcontractors, instead of spending valuable time shuttling back and forth between the construction office and the project site. [See Motion press release] -- Posted Monday, June 15, 2009 by chb

VDC Research report on global rugged mobile computer sales
According to VDC Research’s newest report on the market for rugged mobile devices supporting enterprise applications overall shipments reached US$5.38 billion in 2008. While the overall market was flat over 2007, in 2008 the market for large form factor devices increased by 11% while small form factor shipments contracted by 9%. In 2009 VDC Research expects the overall rugged market to contract by 10%. According to VDC analyst Casey Holmes, “The current market is certainly bleak, but there is a silver lining. Opportunity remains because today’s generation of mobile computers are not just sleeker, but designed to have real benefits in worker efficiency and customer service that save cost and maximize sales.” [See full VDC press release] -- Posted Monday, June 15, 2009 by chb

Full review: Getac PS535F
The GETAC PS535F rugged handheld complements the company's lineup of rugged notebook and tablet computers. It is a compact, handy device that offers a well-balanced combination of Windows Mobile/Pocket PC convenience and targeted professional features such as integrated high-accuracy GPS, a full 480 x 640 pixel VGA display, e-Compass, altimeter, and 3-megapixel camera. [Read review of the GETAC PS535F rugged handheld] -- Posted Saturday, June 13, 2009 by chb

Palm and Windows Mobile and how the iPhone really changed everything
We've covered mobile computing since 1993, and so with all the hoopla over the much anticipated release of the Palm Pre in early June of 2009, here are some thoughts about the ever-changing fortunes of the mobile platforms in our industry [... more] -- Posted Friday, June 12, 2009 by chb

We're analyzing an Intel Atom-based Mini-ITX board for industrial and embedded applications
Anyone building industrial/embedded systems that have substantial I/O requirements, including strong legacy support, yet must also run quietly and economically should take a look at Advantech's AIMB-210 Mini-ITX Single Board Computer. Fanless operation means no noise and no electric fan that can fail, and if performance matches the project, the cost of an Atom-based systems is generally much less than that of a Core 2 Duo setup. [See review of the Atom N270-powered Advantech AIMB-210 Mini-ITX board] -- Posted Thursday, June 11, 2009 by chb

DisplaySearch.com report on LED backlights
DisplaySearch.com issued a new report on the status of LED backlight panels which are rapidly displacing conventional CCFL backlights. That's because LED backlights are slimmer and lighter, have lower power consumption, offer market differentiation, have dimming backlight capability, wide color gamut, and they benefit from the trend towards green displays. Among the challenges in LED backlights are design issues, and components availability and cost. As is, LED backlights currently have a 26% penetration in notebooks and 100% in netbooks. [See DisplaySearch Quarterly LED Backlight Panel Shipment & Forecast eport] -- Posted Thursday, June 11, 2009 by chb

Socket handheld + Optimus EMR = medical records solution
Socket Mobile and Optimus EMR, a provider of electronic medical records to the long-term care industry, have partnered to launch a joint solution for long-term care facilities. The solution incorporates the Socket SoMo 650Rx handheld computer with antimicrobial casing, and Optimus EMR software, which is a Electronic Medical Record solution designed for the post-acute care industry, allowing CNAs, nurses, therapists and other clinicians to accurately capture data during their normal work procedures. -- Posted Wednesday, June 10, 2009 by chb

GETAC aims to be #2 vendor of rugged PCs by 2012
According to Digitimes, Mitac Technology president James Hwang aims for GETAC to become the world's second largest vendor of rugged PCs by 2012. Rugged computers currently make up about 40% of overall Mitac revenue. Hwang said the company will focus on expanding models and shipments of rugged PCs. GETAC's current offerings include the A790, B300, M230, and P470 rugged and semi-rugged notebooks, the E100 and V100 Tablet PCs, and the PS535F rugged handheld. -- Posted Tuesday, June 9, 2009 by chb

Computex 2009 attendance up
DigiTimes reports that Computex 2009 attracted over 30,000 buyers and over 100,000 visitors for the first four days of the show, both numbers up (1% and 5%) compared to last year. The top-10 buyers were from the US, Japan, Hong Kong, China and South Korea. -- Posted Monday, June 8, 2009 by chb

Intermec Webinar on maximizing mobile workflow IT investment
On June 17 at 11AM EST, Intermec will hold a free Webinar entitled "Maximize Your IT Investment: Assessing the True Cost." It will feature David Krebs, Director of Mobile and Wireless Practice for Venture Development Corporation (VDC), and Jeff Sibio, Director of Industry Marketing for Intermec, who will share with you the benefits of total cost of ownership (TCO) and how it can be applied to mobile workflow. [See Signup page] -- Posted Sunday, June 7, 2009 by chb

Intel to buy embedded systems software vendor Wind River
Intel Corporation announced it will acquire Wind River Systems in a US$884 million deal. Wind River, which has 1,600 employees, is a leading software vendor in embedded devices. As an Intel subsidiary, Wind River will become part of Intel’s strategy to grow its processor and software presence outside the traditional PC and server market segments into embedded systems and mobile handheld devices. [Read press release] -- Posted Thursday, June 4, 2009 by chb

Xplore close to its goal for financing round
The Austin Business Journal reports that Xplore Technologies has raised $1.4 million of a planned $1.9 million round of capital. Founded in Toronto, Canada, in 1996, Xplore employs about 50 workers in Austin where it relocated its headquarters in 2004. -- Posted Thursday, June 4, 2009 by chb

RAM Mount solutions for Netbooks
There are millions of Netbooks out there, and they are being used in all sorts of commercial, industrial and professional applications. When used in vehicles, airplanes or boats, a good mounting solution is required, and that is where RAM Mounts' new lineup of RAM Mounts for Netbooks comes in. Based on the Tough Tray II, there is an almost endless variety of mounting possibilities with suction cups, vertical and horizontal arms, no-drill solutions and even special aircraft seat rails. [See Ram Mount solutions for Netbooks] -- Posted Wednesday, June 3, 2009 by chb

New: Intermec CN50 3.5/3.75G wireless multi-function handheld
Intermec introduced the Windows Mobile 6.1-based CN50 mobile computer that provides 3.5G/3.75G wireless support in a small and handy, yet quite rugged, package that weighs just 12 ounces, but includes 1D/2D barcode scanning, a 3.1-megapixel camera, GPS and digital compass, and an accelerometer for automatic display orientation. "Flexible network" technology allows using either CDMA or UMTS networks, and the device supports Intermec's new eDMI (enhanced mobile document imaging). [See description and specs of the Intermec CN50] -- Posted Wednesday, June 3, 2009 by chb

New: Intermec CN4 Series with 3.5G wireless support
At a time where adherence to security standards, customer satisfaction and total cost of ownership matter more than ever, Intermec introduced the CN4 and CN4e rugged mobile computers that build on the company's CN3 platform. The new Windows Mobile 6.1-powered devices support advanced 3.5G wireless WAN, Intermec's new eDMI (enhanced mobile document imaging) and they are even more rugged than the CN3 line (IP64, 6-foot drop, -4 to 140F). [See description and specs of the Intermec CN4 and CN4e] -- Posted Wednesday, June 3, 2009 by chb

GETAC's V100 now faster, more powerful
GETAC announced a substantial technology update to its rugged, versatile V100 Tablet PC convertible. The machine is now powered by a 1.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo SU9400 processor, can be ordered with more RAM (up to 4GB), larger hard disks (up to 320GB), and UL1604 certification for operation in potentially explosive environments. WiFi now supports 802.11 draft-n, and there's a ExpressCard slot. RuggedPCReview expects a 25-50% performance increase at the same or better battery life compared to the predecessor model. [See full review of the GETAC V100 rugged Tablet PC convertible] -- Posted Tuesday, June 2, 2009 by chb

Computex 2009 Info
Computex Taipei is the largest computer trade show in Asia, and the second largest in the world, after CeBIT in Germany. Like the long-departed Comdex, Computex is a hard core IT show as opposed to the more consumer-oriented CES. Computex is taking place June 2-6, 2009, in the Taipei World Trade Center. Click on the company names to see what the following RuggedPCReview.com sponsors are showing at Computex 2009: Advantech, DT Research, GETAC, Samwell. To see the Computex 2009 Show Guide, click here. -- Posted Tuesday, June 2, 2009 by chb

Synaptics releases new, customizable touchpads
Synaptics unveiled its new ClickPad solution. ClickPad is a larger-size touchpad that allows a variety of multi-finger gestures that can eliminate the need for physical buttons. All Synaptics ClickPads and Touchpads incorporate the latest gestures previously announced in the Synaptics Gesture Suite (SGS) 9.1: two-finger scrolling, PinchZoom, and pivot rotate, as well as three-finger flick and press. In addition, the Synaptics DualMode TouchPad is now available to support “under plastic” designs and provides OEMs with differentiation via custom 0D buttons and 1D scrolling support directly on the TouchPad surface, enhancing functionality and enabling new features. [See Synaptics press release] -- Posted Tuesday, June 2, 2009 by chb

RMT SwitchBack part of Raytheon US Army deal
The U.S. Army's TACOM Contracting Center awarded Raytheon $11.8 million to provide a GSE technology demonstration. The contract calls for early prototype testing in 2009 and refined systems delivery and testing in 2010. Justin Dyster,VP of Engineering at Black Diamond Advanced Technology, which is a product line of RMT, Inc. said, "Raytheon leveraged our combat-proven, ultra-rugged SwitchBack computer in a comprehensive solution that will meet the ambitious project schedule set by the Army and ultimately deliver our warfighters a reliable tool." [See Raytheon press release] -- Posted Monday, June 1, 2009 by chb

Another Mobile Clinical Assistant: Advantech MICA-101
With electronic medical records and automation in the healthcare field a high priority, a number of new "Mobile Clinical Assistant" tablet PCs are entering the market. We're taking a detailed look at Advantech's MICA-101, a 3.5-pound Atom-powered tablet with RFID, barcode reader, dual cameras and dual panel input. [Read full review of the Advantech MICA-101] -- Posted Sunday, May 31, 2009 by chb

Fujitsu offers protector sheets for touch screens
Fujitsu Components America, Inc. announced the release of new self-wetting adhesive protector sheets that reduce surface damage to touch screens and flat panel displays in use or during shipping, while preserving the optical quality and extending the life of the touch device. The RoHS-compliant protector sheets feature a 3H surface hardness that is scratch and chemical resistant, yet offers excellent stylus registration for touch applications. They are available in Anti-Glare (matte) and Clear Hardcoat – an Anti-Reflective coated version of the Clear is also available. [Read Fujitsu press release] -- Posted Thursday, May 28, 2009 by chb

DRS receives US$217 million rugged computer contract from U.S. Army
DRS Technologies, Inc. announced that it received a $217 million contract to produce rugged computing systems which include Joint Platform Tablet military rugged tablet (MRT) computers, keyboards, docking stations, interface cables and base plates in support of the Movement Tracking System (MTS) for the U.S. Army. The systems are designed and manufactured at the DRS Tactical Systems business unit in Melbourne, Florida. Deliveries will begin this year and continue into 2010. [Read DRS press release] -- Posted Thursday, May 28, 2009 by chb

Xplore receives major order for its rugged Tablet PCs
Xplore Technologies announced it has received significant orders totaling over $1 million from a major pharmaceutical company for its iX104C4 rugged Tablet PCs. Many of the devices will be utilized in clean room environments. -- Posted Thursday, May 28, 2009 by chb

Review: Winmate I980 rugged Tablet PC
Taiwanese computer manufacturer Winmate prides itself in offering innovative and highly customizable solutions based on your choice of processor and OS platform. We're taking a detailed look at the latest version of Winmate's rugged Tablet PC, the Intel Atom Z530-powered I980 that's available in 8.4, 10.4 and 12.1-inch display versions. [Read review of the Winmate I980 rugged Tablet PC] -- Posted Thursday, May 28, 2009 by chb

Review: Handheld US Algiz 8 rugged Tablet PC
Handheld US is a North American distributor of rugged PDAs and handheld computers. The latest update to their Algiz 8 rugged Tablet PC platform, now powered by an Intel Atom Z510 processor, offers more RAM and storage, longer battery life, and a super-bright 8.4-inch display option. We're testing speed, battery life and outdoor display performance. [Read review of the Handheld US Algiz 8 rugged Tablet PC] -- Posted Thursday, May 28, 2009 by chb

French vehicle inspection provider will deploy 2,500 LXE MX7 handhelds
LXE announced it has entered the vehicle-inspection services market with a major effort in partnership with Sakar Autovision, the leading provider of vehicle-inspection services in France. LXE will replace Autovision’s entire terminal fleet with LXE’s rugged mobile computers. The contract will include a total of 2,500 LXE MX7 computers, which will be deployed across Autovision’s network this year.
-- Posted Wednesday, May 27, 2009 by chb

Juniper Systems to display at June trade shows
Juniper Systems, makers of the ultra-rugged Archer and Allegro handhelds, announced it will be at the following trade shows in June of 2009: American Public Transportation Association Rail Conference, June 16, 2009, Chicago, IL; Army Logistics Symposium and Exposition, Richmond, VA; 7th Annual North American Forest Ecology Workshop, June 22-26, Logan, UT; Association of Consulting Foresters, 60th Anniversary Conference & Tradeshow, June 28-July 1, Charleston, SC. -- Posted Friday, May 22, 2009 by chb

Data Ltd introduces rugged UMPC
LaPorte, Indiana, based Data Ltd, Inc., introduced the DLI 8400 ultra-mobile Rugged Tablet, ideally suited to a wide variety of harsh environment applications such as field service, first responders, fleet services and transportation. The Atom Z530-powered DLI 8400 measures 9 x 7.3 x 1.6 inches, weighs just 3.1 pounds, has a 30-key keyboard, IP54 sealing, a 4-foot drop spec, numerous expansion, wireless and data capture options, and is said to run up to nine hours on its dual Li-Ion batteries. [See description and specs of the DLI 8400] -- Posted Thursday, May 21, 2009 by chb

VIA to demo cryptographic security solutions at Computex 2009
According to VIA, its Nano, C7 and Eden processors platforms are the only processors that currently offer a built-in advanced cryptographic engine. VIA announced that it will be showing examples of its customized security solution service at Computex 2009, helping customers to employ a comprehensive and effective security infrastructure in all segments. [View what VIA plans for Computex 2009] -- Posted Thursday, May 21, 2009 by chb

DisplaySearch: Touch screen module revenues to reach $9B by 2015
In its recently released 2009 Touch Panel Market Analysis Report, DisplaySearch forecasts the total touch screen module market will grow to $9 billion by 2015, from $3.6 billion in 2008, with a CAGR of 14%. DisplaySearch surveyed over 170 suppliers of touch screen modules, controller ICs, ITO films and other technologies to produce the report. These firms are profiled in the report, and 2008 shipments and revenues for over 100 touch screen suppliers are included. -- Posted Thursday, May 21, 2009 by chb

Next-gen netbook Atom to combine CPU, chipset.
Infoworld reports that Intel revealed more details on its next-gen Atom netbook platform in a conference call. Codenamed "Pine Trail," the platform will combine chipset and processor in a single chip. The change may result in better speed and even lower overall power consumption. Pine Trail is said to go to PC manufacturers in the second half of 2009. [See InfoWorld report] -- Posted Thursday, May 21, 2009 by chb

Microsoft to have large Embedded Systems presence at 2009 Computex
Digitimes reports that despite the difficult global economy, the Microsoft showcase at Computex 2009 in Taipei will be the company's largest ever, especially in the embedded space. The 18 Windows Embedded partners are AdvanPOS Technology, Advantech, Advanced Micro Devices, AVerMedia Technologies, BSquare, Citaq, Flytech Technology, Fugoo, ICOP Technology, Injoy Motion, Intrinsyc Software International, Johnson Health Tech, Mitac International, Nvidia, Partner Tech, Posiflex Technologies, Protech Systems and SilverPAC. -- Posted Thursday, May 21, 2009 by chb

Another review of the General Dynamics Itronix GD6000
ChannelWeb posted a review of the General Dynamics Itronix GD6000 vehicle-rugged notebook computer and concluded that "overall, we found it to be a capable, sturdy notebook, ready to withstand most rugged environments." [See ChannelWeb review of the GD6000] -- Posted Thursday, May 21, 2009 by chb

Home Hardware Stores selects Intermec CK3 rugged handhelds
Intermec announced that Home Hardware Stores Limited, Canada’s largest independent hardware, lumber, building materials and furniture retailer, in collaboration with Intermec Honours Partner, Ryzex, has selected the Intermec CK3 mobile computer for use across its over 1,000 retail stores. The CK3 will be used to help manage the retailer’s more than 60,000 items and accompany its in-store POS operations. The solution delivers considerable improvements and increased efficiencies in inventory management, store ordering, and pricing and promotions for each independent store Dealer. [Read press release] -- Posted Thursday, May 21, 2009 by chb

LXE to develop next gen rugged handheld for Itron
LXE, the rugged mobile computer business of EMS Technologies, announced a multi-year relationship with Itron in which LXE will develop and manufacture Itron’s next-generation ultra-rugged wireless handheld computer. Itron, a technology provider to global energy and water industries with 2008 revenues of US$1.9 billion, will have exclusive rights to sell the LXE-developed wireless handheld in the water, gas and electric utility markets. Mobile computing historians may remember that Itron started Itronix as a business unit in the late 1980s and then spun it off in 1992. -- Posted Tuesday, May 19, 2009 by chb

New: RAM Mounts for the Panasonic CF-H1 Mobile Clinical Assistant
RAM-Mounts of Seattle, Washington -- undisputedly the leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged, durable mounting systems and docking stations for mobile electronics with their patented ball and socket mounting system that allows you to mount practically anything anywhere -- has introduced a whole line of mounting products for the Panasonic ToughBook CF-H1 Mobile Clinical Assistant. [See description and pics of the new RAM Mounts for the Panasonic H1 Mobile Clinical Assistant] -- Posted Monday, May 18, 2009 by chb

Electronic Health Records Stimulus Alliance formed
Allscripts announced the formation of a coalition of technology innovation leaders to educate 500,000 U.S. physicians about opportunities aligned with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The EHR Stimulus Alliance - which includes Allscripts, Cisco, Citrix, Dell, Intel, Intuit, Microsoft Corp., and Nuance - is a nationwide campaign by healthcare and technology companies to help physicians explore opportunities associated with the ARRA. Alliance members are sponsoring The EHR Stimulus Tour, an education program with hundreds of planned virtual and physical events for physicians in cities across the U.S. -- Posted Thursday, May 14, 2009 by chb

Full review: General Dynamics Itronix GD8000
General Dynamics Itronix has upped the ante in the hotly contested rugged notebook field with the new GD8000 that replaces the XR-1. Emphasis is on better performance, much longer battery life, and even greater ruggedness. And then there's the vaunted DynaVue sunlight-viewable display technology. Can the GD8000 deliver and put the heat on the competition? [Read full review of the General Dynamics Itronix GD8000] -- Posted Wednesday, May 13, 2009 by chb

Ultra-rugged handheld with true Xenon photo flash
Two Technologies, headquartered in Horsham, PA, which designs and manufactures customizable, rugged handheld computers, introduced the ultra-rugged Hydrus Luna. The IP68-rated Windows CE-powered device sports 40 hour battery life and a 5-megapixel camera with a true Xenon photo tube flash. See description and specs of the Two Technologies Hydrus Luna] -- Posted Wednesday, May 13, 2009 by chb

Intermec RFID implementation wins "Best Use of RFID"
Intermec's implementation of RFID technology at Vail Resorts was voted “Best Use of RFID” by an independent panel of judges at the RFID Journal Live! conference in Orlando, FL. The 22 independent judges chose the winners, based on two primary criteria: did the RFID application break new ground, and did it deliver benefits to the customer? Vail and Intermec won because their RFID deployment effectively improved the experience of skiers at the Vail resorts by using Intermec CN3 mobile computers with IP30 handheld RFID readers. -- Posted Monday, May 11, 2009 by chb

Phoenix offers Bluetooth-based locking system
Phoenix Technologies now offers Phoenix Freeze, an always-on Bluetooth proximity system that automatically locks a notebook computer whenever the user walks away from it. Freeze works by pairing a Bluetooth phone with a laptop so that the laptop locks whenever the user walks away with the phone. Upon return to a predefined proximity, the computer unlocks. In some situations, this may be an interesting alternative locking and unlocking rugged machines with passwords or finger swipes. -- Posted Monday, May 11, 2009 by chb

Review: Handheld US Algiz 10 rugged Tablet PC
The Algiz 10, offered by Handheld U.S., is a compact, Windows XP-based rugged Tablet PC that offers a good balance of performance, features, ruggedness, portability, and battery life. The other thing that sets it apart is its 10.4-inch display that is larger and offers higher resolution than that of most machines in its class. [See review and specs of the US Handheld Algiz 10] -- Posted Friday, May 8, 2009 by chb

LXE appoints General Manager
EMS Technologies, Inc. announced the appointment of Stephen Newell as general manager of LXE Inc., the company’s rugged mobile computer business. Newell most recently served as VP of Satcom sales for the EMS SATCOM business unit, where he led the formation of a global aeronautical sales team and also led the military and government sales group, overseeing major military program wins and supporting key government prime contractors, Boeing and Lockheed Martin. -- Posted Friday, May 8, 2009 by chb

Amrel handheld biometric solution on a rugged PDA platform
Built on Amrel's rugged DA5 PDA platform, the DA5-B includes a digital face camera with integrated flash, an optical fingerprint scanner, a built-in iris illuminator and auto-capture iris scanner, and an acoustic sensor. Combine that with a biometric software suite software and you have a handheld device that enables mobile biometric recognition and data capture for military, law enforcement, and many other security applications. [See description and specs of the Amrel DA5-B handheld biometric solution] -- Posted Thursday, May 7, 2009 by chb

VDC observations: 2009 Embedded Systems Conference in San Jose
VDC Research reported on the 2009 Embedded Systems Conference in San Jose and found that multi-core, virtualization, security, small form factors, and particularly application-specific support for customers continued to be strong themes among embedded systems providers. VDC said that many embedded systems vendors are realizing that to win business in today’s environment they must be able to take cost out of the development process for their customers. VDC also observed that a clear theme with embedded vendors was increasing the depth and breadth of application support that they are making available to their customers. [See VDC's press release on their 2009 Embedded Systems Conference observations]
-- Posted Thursday, May 7, 2009 by chb

Where GPS is headed: rugged, waterproof Garmin 550 with camera
An interesting example of where GPS units are headed are the newly released Garmin 550 and 550t. They are small rugged units for hiking, geocaching and other outdoorsy uses, and include U.S. topo maps, a barometric altimeter, 3-axis electronic compass, a microSD card slot and—for the first time—a 3.2-megapixel digital camera that geotags each picture with the location of where it was taken. Oh, and the devices carry an IPx7 rating, which means they are waterproof. -- Posted Thursday, May 7, 2009 by chb

LeCroy introduces PC Card based USB analyzer
LeCroy, a maker of serial data test solutions, announced a new low-cost USB 2.0 analyzer called the USBMobile T2. This PC card-based analyzer features the defacto standard CATC Trace hierarchical display and starts at US$799. Designed to meet the needs of USB developers in the embedded system and software markets, the USBMobile T2 makes lab quality analysis tools affordable for engineers at every level of USB design and test. -- Posted Thursday, May 7, 2009 by chb

New MobileDemand video - Tablet PC in a Paint Shaker!
MobileDemand released another video in their "Torture Chamber Series" where they subject their xTablet T8700 rugged Tablet PC to all sorts of abuse. In this latest one they strap their super-tough tablet computer to an industrial paintshaker machine, attach an accelerometer to it, and then record the g-forces on the machine while it is being shaken. Quite impressive. [See MobileDemand T8700 rugged Tablet PC on a paint shaker] -- Posted Tuesday, May 5, 2009 by chb

Added/updated AMREL rugged computer lineup
Based in El Monte, California, AMREL (AMerican RELiance) has a long history of offering value-added applications in vertical markets. We've added/updated our database of Amrel's rugged computers as follows: Amrel Rocky DR8 (8.4-inch) and DK8 (12.1-inch) rugged slates, and Amrel Rocky RT8 (13.3-inch), RK8 (15.1-inch), and RF8 (17-inch) rugged notebooks. Note that Amrel's slates and notebooks generally come in an "M" (military) and an "I" (industrial) version. We also added the very interesting Atom-power, instant-on Amrel HBS, which stands for "Handheld Biometric Solution." -- Posted Monday, May 4, 2009 by chb

Psion Teklogix creates multi-regional ruggedized mobile device
Psion Teklogix announced the integration of the Gen 2 CAEN UHF RFID’s A528 compact reader into Psion Teklogix’ handheld WORKABOUT PRO. The WORKABOUT PRO’s, combined with the A528’s ability to operate in the U.S. (FCC part 15), European (ETSI EN 302 208), and IC (Canadian) regulatory environments, creates the first multiregional ruggedized mobile device available for the North American market. -- Posted Monday, May 4, 2009 by chb

Intermec releases Q1 2009 financials
Intermec announced first quarter 2009 (ending March 29, 2009) revenues of $163 million and a net loss of $10.4 million, compared to 2008 first quarter revenues of $217 million and net earnings of $7.7 million. I“We delivered first quarter operating results in line with guidance provided in February and did a solid job of managing cash. We are very confident in our market position and strategy. Our new product programs are on track to address growth opportunities this year and in the future,” said Patrick J. Byrne, Intermec’s president and CEO. “Our focus going forward is to lower our break-even point while positioning the Company for strong operating leverage and growth when the markets recover.” -- Posted Monday, May 4, 2009 by chb

JLT Mobile Computers appoints new CEO
Swedish JLT Mobile Computers, maker of a line of rugged tablets and vehicle/fixed mount computers, has appointed Per Holmberg as their new CEO. Holmberg has served at Xilinx, the company whose Field Programmable Gate Array technology powers the SwitchBack rugged UMPC by RMT, whose line of Duros computers is of JLT origin. It's a small world in the rugged industry. -- Posted Friday, May 1, 2009 by chb

Windows 7 on Fujitsu T5010 tablet
Channel Insider installed Winodws 7 on a Fujitsu T5010 Tablet PC to see how the new OS would handle the tablet hardware. They found that Windows 7 properly identified and installed all major component, including Wacom drivers, Intel Turbo Memory, wireless, web cam and the biometric fingerprint sensor. They also found a marked improvement in boot, shutdown, and operation speed compared to Vista Business. [See Channel Insider report] -- Posted Thursday, April 30, 2009 by chb

Full review: Advantech L61T compact panel PC
The Advantech PPC-L61T is a very compact ruggedized industrial panel-mount computer measuring just 8 x 5.75 x 1.9 inches and weighing less than three pounds. It's a fanless, meticulously engineered touchscreen device meant to serve in applications such as machine automation, process monitoring, etc., in tight industrial and manufacturing settings. Able to run both standard and embedded operating systems, the L61T offers targeted performance and great connectivity (including legacy) in a super-compact and cost-efficient package. [Read full review of the Advantech PPC-L61T industrial panel PC] -- Posted Tuesday, April 28, 2009 by chb

Added: Samwell RUGGEDBOOK SR858
We've added a description and full specifications of the RUGGEDBOOK SR858 by Samwell. It's a fully rugged convertible notebook that can be used either as a clamshell notebook or as a tablet. The SR858 differentiates itself by having a 13.3-inch 1280 x 800 pixel wide-format touchscreen instead of a conventional 4:3 aspect ratio display. It also offers a very rational balance between performance, battery life, advanced features and legacy support. [See description and specs of the Samwell RUGGEDBOOK SR858] -- Posted Sunday, April 26, 2009 by chb

Arbor expands the MCA field with large-screen M1256
With the lucrative electronic patient records project gathering steam, we're seeing more and more MCAs (Mobile Clinical Assistants) being released. Arbor Technology's Atom N270-powered M1256, available in Q2 of 2009, differentiates itself with a larger 12.1-inch wide-format 1280 x 800 pixel touchscreen display. [Read description and specs of the Arbor M1256 MCA] -- Posted Friday, April 24, 2009 by chb

Motorola announces RS507 rugged hands-free imager
At LogiPharma Europe 2009, Motorola announced the RS507 hands-free Imager, a hands-free imager that interoperates with Motorola’s WT4000 wearable mobile computer. Built on the Symbol SE4500 imaging engine, the RS507 has its own 624 MHz microprocessor that reads any bar codes in a matter of milliseconds, regardless of lighting. Its omni-directional scanning eliminates the need to align bar code and scanner, and ensures first-time, every-time fast and accurate capture of virtually any bar code. -- Posted Friday, April 24, 2009 by chb

Socket Mobile has shipped 15,000 SoMo 650 handheld computers
In its most recent financials, Socket Mobile says it has shipped over 15,000 SoMo 650 handheld computers into the business mobility market. Socket conceived the Windows Mobile-based SoMo 650 as a compatible platform to work in conjunction with its broad line of peripherals and add-on cards. The SoMo line has recently been expanded with the 650rx, a special antimicrobial version for healthcare markets. -- Posted Thursday, April 23, 2009 by chb

Rugged case for transporting hard drives
The new CaseCruzer Universal Hard Drive Case is designed for digital media and IT professionals that travel with delicate hard drives. Dangers of travel are minimized by combining a hard outer shell with custom anti-static foam that protects against hard knocks and potentially damaging electrostatic discharge that can destroy hard drives, motherboards and other internal computer devices. There are models that can transport 4 to 24 disks. -- Posted Wednesday, April 22, 2009 by chb

Navman Wireless identifies underused vehicles in fleets
Navman Wireless North America announced that its OnlineAVL2 vehicle tracking and logistics system now has the ability to pinpoint vehicles that are being underused, based on travel distance and ignition time thresholds set by the fleet manager. The info can be used to make policy changes that improve vehicle productivity or reduce costs by decommissioning underperforming trucks or vans. -- Posted Tuesday, April 21, 2009 by chb

Atom platform expands, but does it have a clear direction?
In the days of the 386, 486 and even early Pentium processors, it used to be fairly easy to follow Intel's chips as they mainly differed in clock speed. These days, staying on top of Intel's various offerings has become an almost full time job. That even goes for Intel's low-end Atom chips that, together with resurrecting some older Intel technologies such as hyperthreading, seemed to simplify the matter of processor selection. Read Atom platform expands, but does it have a clear direction?
-- Posted Monday, April 20, 2009 by chb

IrDA announces superfast Giga-IR
IrDA announced they officially adopted the new Giga-IR standard specification that allows transmission speeds of 1 gigabit per second. IrDA's IrSimple communications protocol had already significantly increased transmission speed compared to conventional IrDA. Now, Giga-IR is approximately 250 times faster than IrSimple's 4Mbps speed. And unlike with most RF technology, no complex pairing is required. Though we're seeing fewer devices with IR ports, IR isn't dead just yet. -- Posted Thursday, April 16, 2009 by chb

Psion Teklogix offers upgrade program
Psion Teklogix is offering an upgrade program that enables companies to trade in their old hardware for brand-new equipment at about the same cost of their current service contract. The program is designed to leverage resources and the ability to lease new equipment to upgrade systems at very little additional cost and no capital outlay. -- Posted Thursday, April 16, 2009 by chb

Parvus named Small Business of the Year by Lockheed Martin
Parvus has been named by Lockheed Martin as a Small Business of the Year for 2008. The recognition comes as a result of Parvus meeting or exceeding all quality objectives, delivery schedules, and project deliverables related to pre-production Communication, Navigation, and Identification battery subsystems for the F-22 Raptor. -- Posted Thursday, April 16, 2009 by chb

Extech releases rugged Apex 2 thermal printer
Extech Instruments released the lightweight, rugged Apex 2 direct thermal printer with Bluetooth and a WiFi option as a solution for a variety of mobile computing applications including route accounting and ticketing. The Apex 2 can print up to 1,300 feet per charge, handle 5-foot drops, and is also IP54 rated. -- Posted Wednesday, April 15, 2009 by chb

Samwell joins RuggedPCReview.com as premier sponsor
Samwell Group has joined the ranks of RuggedPCReview premier sponsors, thus helping to make possible rugged computing news, information and detailed product reviews. Samwell specializes in product and system integration services, OEM/ODM electronics manufacturing services, as well as components manufacturing and supply. The company markets a complete line of semi-rugged and fully rugged mobile computing products that include convertible notebooks, Tablet PCs and ultra-mobile PCs under its RUGGEDBOOK brand. Check Samwell's RUGGEDBOOK homepage on RuggedPCReview and see a full description of the Atom-powered RUGGEDBOOK SR820. -- Posted Monday, April 13, 2009 by chb

Wyse announces "Triple Play" thin computing bundle
Wyse Technology, a global leader in thin computing and client virtualization, announced new Wyse "Triple Play" voice, data, and video thin computing bundle that integrates voice for unified communications, video for HD video playback, great Adobe Flash performance and support for high res imaging up to 2560 x 1600 pixels. {see Wyse Triple Play press release] -- Posted Monday, April 13, 2009 by chb

Socket adds broadband access for its 650-Series handheld
Socket Mobile announced availability of its SoMo 650 Back Pack Broadband ExpressCard Adapter. The Back Pack snaps onto the back of a SoMo 650 and interfaces with a broadband network ExpressCard supporting broadband networks by Sprint, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and all GSM-based network operators worldwide using Novatel Wireless ExpressCards. -- Posted Thursday, April 9, 2009 by chb

Intel announces new Atom chips
Celebrating the 1-year anniversary of the introduction of the Atom processor, Intel announced two new chips. The Z550 extends the performance of the MID product line to 2GHz in an under-3-watt power envelope. The Z515 incorporates the new Intel Burst Performance Technology that lets the chip to run at 1.2GHz when performance is needed. Intel also demonstrated a next-gen Atom MID platform that's even more power efficient. It is codenamed "Moorestown" and consists of a System on Chip codenamed "Lincroft" and a companion I/O hub codenamed "Langwell." -- Posted Wednesday, April 8, 2009 by chb

Motorola MC17 keeps winning design awards
Continuing to demonstrate Motorola’s long history of innovation and the renowned expertise of its multiple design and engineering teams, Motorola’s MC17 Retail Mobile Computer has been recognized with awards from several leading design organizations. These prestigious awards include the International Design Excellence award, iF Product Design award and Good Design award.
-- Posted Wednesday, April 8, 2009 by chb

How attractive are GETAC rugged computers?
Attractive enough for 400 rugged GETAC notebook computers to be stolen in Lake Forest, Calif. Fortunately, the criminals weren't too bright and tried to sell the GETACs on Craigslist. Undercover agents sprang into action, nabbed the bad guys, and found most of the stolen computers intact. -- Posted Monday, April 6, 2009 by chb

Socket announces antimicrobial product line
Socket Mobile announced availability of its first antimicrobial suite of healthcare products for medical mobility, including their Socket SoMo 650Rx handheld computer and line of barcode scanners. The new Socket antimicrobial products are encased in plastics made with antimicrobial materials, which provide an extra layer of protection gainst potentially harmful bacteria and microbes. [See press release] -- Posted Monday, April 6, 2009 by chb

Full review: Juniper Systems Allegro MX
When you work out there in the field, your gear must be absolutely 100% reliable and able to handle whatever comes its way. Even bears. Juniper Systems' Windows Mobile 6.1-based ultra-rugged Allegro MX Field PC is a tough tool for the job. Based on proven platforms, it's large enough to be operated with gloves, has excellent connectivity and expansion potential, both keyboard and keypad, and it's waterproof (we checked). [See full review of the Juniper Systems Allegro MX] -- Posted Sunday, April 5, 2009 by chb

Juniper Systems LandMark Mobile GPS Utility
Recognizing the need for real-time GPS data to be incorporated into custom and third party application software, Juniper Systems developed LandMark Mobile™ to manage the GPS receiver connectivity functions and provide services such as navigation, route tracking and recording of positions. Point averaging and offset capabilities are included. LandMark Mobile™ runs on the Juniper Systems Archer Field PC and Allegro MX. [View LandMark Mobile™ datasheet] -- Posted Friday, April 3, 2009 by chb

RMT updates website to better highlight product lines
RMT, Inc., has updated and restructured its website to highlight the strengths of its three distinctly different product lines. Under the tag line "innovations for a rugged world," the RMT website now features separate sites for the Duros line of rugged tablets and vehicle mounts, DAP rugged handhelds and Windows CE-based tablets, and the SwitchBack ultra-rugged UMPC. -- Posted Friday, April 3, 2009 by chb

Trimble’s Yuma rugged tablet wins Best of FOSE
Trimble announced it received a Government Computer News (GCN) Best of FOSE (Federal Office Systems Exposition) award for the new Yuma™ rugged tablet computer. The Yuma brings full office capabilities to the field in a mobile package with its Microsoft Windows operating system and wireless connectivity. -- Posted Friday, April 3, 2009 by chb

Motion J3400 review available as PDF
RuggedPCReview.com's full review of the Motion Computing J3400 Tablet PC is now available as a print-style PDF. -- Posted Thursday, April 2, 2009 by chb

Motion Computing updates and improves C5 MCA and ruggedized F5 Mobile Field Tool
At CTIA Wireless 2009, Motion Computing announced that the F5 rugged tablet PC and the C5 Mobile Clinical Assistant (MCA) are now available for use on the Verizon Wireless mobile broadband network. Additionally, Motion announced upgrades to the devices including enhanced performance and efficiency through an upgrade from Core 2 Solo to Core 2 Duo processor technology, the latest WiFi technology and a new 64GB solid state drive (SSD) option. The upgrade to the C5 Mobile Clinical Assistant puts the C5 ahead of the MCA competition in terms of performance. -- Posted Wednesday, April 1, 2009 by chb

Trimble introduces tiny GPS receiver for timing and synchronization
Trimble introduced a tiny embedded GPS receiver for timing applications--the Trimble Resolution-SMT GPS receiver that enables system integrators to add precise GPS to provide location, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and synchronization to many products or systems where cost or size had previously been a limitation. The Resolution-SMT measures just 19mm x 19mm x 2.5mm. -- Posted Wednesday, April 1, 2009 by chb

ADLINK revives legacy EBX market with Atom-based LittleBoard 735 SBC
Embedded systems giant ADLINK Technology announced the Atom N270-powered LittleBoard 735 EBX SBC that combines the low-power "Navy Pier" platform (Atom N270 with 945GSE chipset) with its Extreme Rugged design methodology to create an upgrade path for previous end-of-life products in the legacy EBX form factor market. The LittleBoard 735 supports legacy features including a PCI-to-ISA bridge, four serial ports, IDE, CF socket, and embedded BIOS extensions. The LittleBoard 735 uses a thick PCB and is designed for to tolerate shock, vibration, humidity, and temperature extremes. -- Posted Wednesday, April 1, 2009 by chb

National Instruments introduces rugged fanless controllers
National Instruments announced the rugged NI 31xx series of fanless industrial controllers for long-term deployments. Based on low-power Intel Core Duo or Celeron processor, the Windows XP-based controllers offer a wide range of connectivity to external devices through USB, cabled MXI Express, Ethernet and PCI or PCI Express. -- Posted Wednesday, April 1, 2009 by chb

Bay Area Freeway Service Patrol implements Mentor Streets
The Oakland, CA, Bay Area Freeway Service Patrol implemented Mentor Engineering’s Mentor Streets® Enterprise mobile fleet management solution in their 90-vehicle fleet. The Streets solution includes comprehensive software applications for Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) with event management and reporting capabilities, as well as the fixed-mount Windows CE-based Mentor Ranger® rugged, in-vehicle computers. -- Posted Wednesday, April 1, 2009 by chb

GETAC adds Computrace support to firmware of its rugged computers
Getac Inc. announced support for Absolute Software’s patented Computrace technology in the firmware of its A790 and V100 models and will also include these updates to its B300, E100, M230 & P470 over the next few months. Once the roll-out is complete, Getac’s full line of rugged laptop and tablet computers will be able to self-heal and survive hard drive reformats and replacement as well as access the complete range of Absolute’s anti-theft and management solutions. -- Posted Tuesday, March 31, 2009 by chb

Fujitsu consolidates major North American businesses
A new entity called Fujitsu America begins operations April 1, 2009, led by President and CEO Farhat Ali. The new business unit of Fujitsu Limited consolidates the application services of Fujitsu Consulting, the system platforms of Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation (which includes Tablet PCs), and the retailing solutions of Fujitsu Transaction Solutions Inc. under a unified corporate structure designed to expand offerings and provide North American clients a single resource for all their computing technology and IT services needs. [see press release] -- Posted Monday, March 30, 2009 by chb

Parvus offers handsfree computing with the Zypad WR11XX
Wearable computers have been available for a while, but perhaps none as practical and useful as the rugged Parvus Zypad WR11XX. The device runs Linux on a PXA270 processor, has a large 3.5-inch sunlight-viewable touchscreen with full 640 x 480 VGA resolution, and has a flexible expansion system that can add GPS and GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS to onboard Bluetooth and WiFi. There's also fingerprint scanning, an accelerometer, and an optional electronic compass function. [See description and specs of the Parvus Zypad WR11XX -- Posted Monday, March 30, 2009 by chb

Otterbox expands into new building
OtterBox, makers of rugged and protective cases for handheld and mobile technology, is bucking downscaling trends by moving its growing staff of over 70 employees and three warehouses five miles down the road from its current Old Town office in Fort Collins, Colorado. Congrats, Otterbox gang, and keep those rugged, waterproof cases coming! [See our review of the Otterbox 7000 Series rugged notebook case for an example of their stuff] -- Posted Monday, March 30, 2009 by chb

Datalogic Mobile partners with Summit for enterprise-class WiFi
Datalogic Mobile announced a strategic alliance with Summit Data Communications, a provider of wireless LAN radio modules and cards for business-critical mobile devices. Summit's embedded WiFi solutions ensure secure and reliable wireless network connections, even in the most challenging environments. Datalogic handhelds will support WPA2-Enterprise with a broad range of options, including all the popular authentication types and even support for the most secure networks, including those that are compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Summit embedded WiFi solutions also support Cisco Compatible Extensions, or CCX, and have been certified for CCX Version 4, the highest level of compatibility supported on mobile computers. -- Posted Monday, March 30, 2009 by chb

Winmate features full Intel Atom-based product line
Winmate Communications, Inc., a Taiwanese manufacturer of industrial displays and related display and computing technologies, now features a full line of Intel Atom-based systems. The line includes Atom-based Single Board Computers, point-of-sales systems, industrial box PCs, rugged and industrial Panel PCs, vehicle mounts, as well as rugged tablets (including the Winmate IA80 we recently tested at RuggedPCReview.com). -- Posted Sunday, March 29, 2009 by chb

Now available: case study on Dive Support Computing
The RuggedPCReview.com case study on using a GD-Itronix MR-1 rugged UMPC as a dive support computer is now available for download and viewing as a PDF. The study was prepared during a trip to the Honduran island of Roatan to test a variety of rugged and underwater equipment and survey the status of coral bleaching that has been witnessed in the massive reefs off Central America. [View Case Study: Dive Support Computing] -- Posted Friday, March 27, 2009 by chb

New Tablet PC software to calculate and report oil slicks
The Oil Spill Training Company Ltd. ) has released a new software package enabling personnel to calculate rapidly the volume of floating oil slicks. This means immediate results can be obtained at the site of an oil spill incident, using a Tablet PC during initial surveillance. More detailed reports can be generated in various file formats and customised using a full range of markers, standard terms and symbols. -- Posted Thursday, March 26, 2009 by chb

Datalogic Mobile announces overnight service program and 5 year service terms
Datalogic Mobile enhanced its Maintenance Contract Programs with a new overnight comprehensive service program that provides almost instant response to field replacement requests. 5-year contract terms are offered in addition to the 3-year contract at the time of product sales. -- Posted Wednesday, March 25, 2009 by chb

Twinhead/Gammatech also announce a Mobile Clinical Assistant
GammaTech Computer joined the growing number of companies offering medical slates based on Intel's mobile clinical assistant reference architecture. The GammaTech Durabook RT10 MCA, a Twinhead design, follows Intel's original proof of concept platform with its tablet form factor and integrated multi-purpose handle for easy carrying and use during a clinical environment work shift. See how the RT10 measures up. [Read description and specs of the GammaTech Durabook RT10 MCA] -- Posted Monday, March 23, 2009 by chb

Rugged Intel Atom-power industrial cube by VarTech
VarTech Systems introduced the Intel Atom N270-powered SuperCube small form factor industrial PC for a variety of mobile, embedded control, digital signage, interactive kiosk, thin client, and other human-machine interface applications. The fanless design has six USB and five serial ports. [Read description and specs of the VarTech SuperCube rugged small form factor computer] -- Posted Monday, March 23, 2009 by chb

Handheld U.S. Kenaz GPS for Recon rugged PDA
Anyone who bought their Recon handheld not only for its features and performance, but also for its exceptional ruggedness (4-foot drop spec, IP67 sealing), and who needs to retain this ruggedness even after adding a high-sensitivity GPS receiver should take a look at the rugged Kenaz offerd by Handheld U.S. [See detailed description and specs of the Handheld U.S. Kenaz GPS receiver ] -- Posted Tuesday, March 17, 2009 by chb

GD-Itronix releases fully rugged GD8000
General Dynamics Itronix released the successor to its fully rugged XR-1. The new GD8000 was designed for maximum reliability under even the most extreme operating conditions and state-of-the-art electronics with increased emphasis on long battery life in the field. The machine sports IP64 sealing and can handle a 42-inch drop while operating. The larger 13.3-inch touch display uses the superb DynaVue outdoor viewable screen technology. Powered by a very efficient 1.86GHz Intel Core 2 Duo SL9400, the GD8000 runs up to eight hours on a charge. [Read description and specs of the General Dynamics Itronix GD8000 -- Posted Monday, March 16, 2009 by chb

Motion Computing introduces new J3400 Tablet PC
Motion Computing released the Motion J3400, a powerful, versatile semi-rugged Tablet PC with a superb and fully outdoor-viewable 12.1-inch wide-format display. Both performance and battery life are significantly improved over the prior generation platform. The J3400 can automatically geo-tag images with its integrated camera and GPS, use worldwide wireless services via GOBI Mobile Broadband, and is rugged enough to survive true point of service usage. [Read full review and specs of the Motion Computing J3400 Tablet PC] -- Posted Monday, March 16, 2009 by chb

The Electronic Health Records challenge
While the Economic Stimulus package mandates the introduction of electronic health records for all Americans by 2014 and thus provides a potential boon for providers of clinical and medical computer systems, there are a number of inherent problems in implementing those systems. InfoWorld published an excellent article on those challenges [read]. -- Posted Thursday, March 12, 2009 by chb

GPS Driving Activity Reporter
While initially marketed as a device to spy on driving teenagers, Hammacher Schlemmer's water- and heat-resistant US$229 Driving Activity Reporter automatically records up to 100 hours of GPS driving activity. Included software lets you view time, date, speed, and precise locations visited, using animated digital street maps or Google Earth. We can see many applications for such a device. [See GPS Driving Activity Reporter] -- Posted Thursday, March 12, 2009 by chb

Dell reveals rugged Latitude E6400 XFR
Almost exactly a year after Dell introduced the Latitude XFR D630, the company unveiled the Latitude E6400 XFR. This Latitude E-Series-based new machine represents another step in Dell's efforts to make an entry in the increasingly competitive and important rugged notebook market. The E6400 XFR, which starts at US$4,299, sports impressive IP65 sealing. [See description and specs of the Dell Latitude E6400 XFR] -- Posted Thursday, March 12, 2009 by chb

Full review: Panasonic H1 Mobile Clinical Assistant
The Toughbook CF-H1 is Panasonic's entry into the potentially very lucrative medical patient record market. The cleanly designed and executed Atom-powered tablet benefits from Panasonic's expertise in rugged and semi-rugged mobile computing equipment, has excellent battery life, a sunlight-viewable display with dual digitizers, and a wealth of data capture features (RFID, barcode, camera). [Read full review of the Panasonic Toughbook H1 Mobile Clinical Assistant] -- Posted Wednesday, March 11, 2009 by chb

Motorola adds mid-range enterprise digital assistants
Bridging the gap between consumer PDAs and industrial devices, Motorola's new MC55 "Enterprise Digital Assistant" combines PDA, phone, walkie-talkie, data communication, GPS, and scanning all into one handy 12-ounce device. The MC55 comes in an "indoor" version with a keypad, and a GPS and WWAN-equipped "outdoor" version with a QWERTY thumbtype keyboard. Both are based on Windows Mobile, have a 2-megapixel camera, a large 3.5-inch display and can survive 4-foot drops. Choose between 1D laser scanner or 2D imager. [Read description and specs of the Motorola MC55 EDA] -- Posted Monday, March 9, 2009 by chb

TabletKiosk enters Medical Clinical Assistant market
TabletKiosk joined the growing number of companies offering medical slates based on Intel's mobile clinical assistant reference architecture with the Core 2 Solo-powered MediSlate MCA i1040XT. Integrated RFID reader, barcode scanner, camera and a 10.4-inch touch screen facilitate data capture. Described as semi-rugged, the i1040XT has IP54 sealing and a 4-foot drop spec. [Read description and specs of the TabletKiosk MediSlate MCA i1040XT] -- Posted Saturday, March 7, 2009 by chb

Embedded mobile software market expected to expand
The market for commercial embedded mobile software exceeded $1.3 billion in 2008 and is expected to reach almost $2 billion by 2013, according to a market study recently released by market intelligence firm VDC Research. Mobile software is no longer discrete applets to make phone calls and manage PIM applications but a strategic platform to enable a broader set of richer applications. -- Posted Friday, March 6, 2009 by chb

General Micro Raider: most power per cubic inch
General Micro Systems, a designer and manufacturer of embedded computing products for defense, aerospace and compute-intensive applications, introduced the S705 "Raider," a rugged Core 2 Duo-based system that measures just 4.6 x 4.6 x 1.6 inches and weighs only 2 lbs. in single drive configuration. Built to MIL-STD-810F specs and able to handle temperature extremes between -40 and 185 degrees Fahrenheit, the Raider supports up to six wireless radios, up to five different expansion buses, a range of I/O, and numerous video/audio options including DVI/LVDS. -- Posted Friday, March 6, 2009 by chb

Datamax and O'Neil now one company
Datamax and O’Neil are now Datamax-O’Neil, a global provider of industry-leading label and receipt printing solutions. The unified company will leverage the resources of Dover Corporation’s Product Identification Group (PIDG), a $1 billion global entity. According to a press release, points of contact, service, warranties, and VAR agreements will remain the same. [Read Datamax-O'Neil press release] -- Posted Friday, March 6, 2009 by chb

Moving towards integrated graphics
According to the "The Future of Integrated Graphics" report by Jon Peddie Research, integrated graphics processor chips (IGPs) will soon be a thing of the past in notebooks, netbooks and various embedded systems such as POS and signage systems. They'll be replaced by graphics systems embedded in the processor. The first embedded graphics processor will be Intel's Westmere in Q4 2009, and AMD will introduce their Fusion processor in Q2 2011. Both companies will employ 32nm process. -- Posted Friday, March 6, 2009 by chb

GETAC releases powerful hi-res rugged GPS PDA
Getac announced the latest addition to its comprehensive line of rugged mobile computing solutions. The GETAC PS535F handheld computer is the company's next generation, fully rugged GPS-enabled PDA with a 3-megapixel camera, e-compass, VGA display and altimeter. The PS535F is a significant technology and upgrade to the PS535E model that has been on duty at the RuggedPCReview.com offices for a few months. [See description and specs of the GETAC PS535F rugged GPS PDA] -- Posted Sunday, March 1, 2009 by chb

Review: Atom-powered Winmate IA80 rugged Tablet PC
Intel's ultra low power Atom processors continue to gather momentum, and we're starting to see them in rugged mobile computers. One example is Winmate's line of IA80 rugged tablet computers, available in versions with 8.4, 10.4 and 12.1-inch displays. The IA80 is based on the same Atom N270 processor used in millions of netbooks. It's a tough, no-nonsense tool for demanding jobs. [Read full review of the Atom-powered Winmate IA80 rugged Tablet PC] -- Posted Sunday, March 1, 2009 by chb

Review: RMT Duros 1214 fixed-mount computer
The Duros 1214 is the latest addition to RMT Inc.'s line of rugged and highly configurable vehicle-mount and fixed-mount computers. Equipped with a bright 12.1-inch SVGA resistive touch screen and a low-power processor, the Duros 1214 comes with up to 64GB of CompactFlash. The machine can be equipped with integrated Bluetooth and WiFi, and there are highly effective dual-diversity antennas. Built to run a variety of different operating systems, this rugged fixed-mount PC is primarily geared towards use in warehousing and shipping environments, but certainly has application in a variety of other areas. [Read full review of the RMT Duros 1214] -- Posted Friday, February 27, 2009 by chb

VIA introduces tiny industrial Box PC
VIA Technologies, Inc, which is best known for its power-efficient x86 processor platforms and has recently gotten into panel PCs, announced the tiny VIA AMOS-3000, which is the company's first embedded box computer and designed for a range of x86 applications such as gaming, digital signage, industrial automation and in-car entertainment. [Read description and specs of the VIA AMOS-3000 industrial Box PC] -- Posted Thursday, February 26, 2009 by chb

Australian freight company uses Intermec CN3
Intermec seems to be on a roll with its CN3. Australian freight pickup and distribution service provider Coastal Midwest Transport is implementing its new Transporta dispatch system with the help of Interdev and Intermec CN3 units from Gamma Solutions. The GPS-enabled, Windows CE 5.0-based CN3 units scan barcodes and assessment notes, track proof of delivery signatures, then forwarded the data for real-time tracking of freight logistics. [See description on Industrial IT] -- Posted Thursday, February 26, 2009 by chb

Fujitsu releases tech backgrounder on touch sensor technologies
Fujitsu Microelectronics America published a tech backgrounder entitled "Touch Sensor Controller Technology and Application Trends" that reviews the capacitive technologies used in touch-sensor controllers, and discusses the choices available for optimizing results in various applications. The paper details the differences between analog and digital touch solutions, discusses different sensing applications, and analyzes general industry trends. Go to Fujitsu Touch Sensor Technology Backgrounder download page] -- Posted Thursday, February 26, 2009 by chb

Life safers: Kingston miniSD and microSD Card adapters
With memory card standards proliferating and the various electronics we use requiring different cards of all sizes, it's sometimes difficult to keep everything compatible. This is where Kingston Technology's various SD, miniSD, microSD and USB readers and adapters come in handy. Learn about some of their latest adapters and cards, and get a primer on all the card standards. [Read about Kingston memory card adapters and readers, and various card standards] -- Posted Wednesday, February 25, 2009 by chb

Lenovo designates eight ThinkPads for use in "semi-rugged" areas
Lenovo is designating eight ThinkPad laptops for use in "field and vehicle semi-ruggedized computing environments" such as public safety, utilities, construction and the military. The ThinkPad X200, X301, X200s, X200 Tablet, T400, T500, R400 and SL300 laptops meet a number of military specifications tests and are enhanced with other durability features. Lenovo is also adding an optional 680-nit high-bright panel to its T400 laptop. Lenovo also states that, based on posted website info, its ThinkPad laptops pass more military specifications compared to Dell’s ATG laptops and Panasonic’s business-rugged and semi-rugged laptops. [See Lenovo's "semi-rugged" press release] -- Posted Wednesday, February 25, 2009 by chb

New: Trimble Tablet f