A pocket-size mobile computer with laser
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

What if you need a tough, rugged, industrial-strength mobile computer with laser scanning capabilities, but want the absolute minimal bulk and weight? That's what Datalogic designed its Memor for. The Memor weighs 7.5 ounces and measures 6 x 2.2 x 1.57 inches -- barely larger than the smallest cellphones were just a few short years ago. Yet, it is a full-function Windows CE 5.0 device powered by an XScale PXA255 processor and being available with integrated 802.11b/g WiFi and Bluetooth. A SD Card slot offers expansion, and the built-in barcode laser scanner can read EAN/UPC, Code 39, 2/5 Codes, Plessey, Codabar, Code 128, EAN128, MSI, Code 93, and Code 11.

Despite its light weight, the Memor is built to hold up to use in demanding environments. It is sealed to IP54 specs, i.e. it's protected agains dust and water spray from all directions. It can also survive four-foot drops to concrete and operate within 32 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit -- not bad at all for such a small and light device.

Datalogic targets the Memor to applications such as inventory, shelf replenishment, price management, order entry, assisted sales, and line busting. Its scanner and integrated keypad certainly make data capture and entry quick and simple, and a variety of supplied software tools such as terminal emulation, the DL Application Manager, and Locked Web Browser help make the most of the Memor's wireless data communications abilities.

Power is always an issue in handhelds. The Memor can accommodate a standard or extended Li-Ion powerpack, but also standard alkakalines, which can be a big plus.