The next generation of Datalogic's light and pocketably handy (yet rugged) mobile data collection computer
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

What if you need a tough, rugged, industrial-strength mobile computer with laser scanning or 1D/2D imaging capabilities, but want the absolute minimal bulk and weight? That's what Datalogic designed its original Memor for. On April 15, 2014, Datalogic announced an upgraded version of the Memor, the new Memor X3.

Sometimes there's just no need to change a time-proven tool just for the sake of it, and Datalogic hasn't.

The screen is a bit larger (2.4 vs 2.2 inches) than the predecessor's, but it's still the same 240 x 320 pixel QVGA, which is plenty sharp enough for such a small display. Weighing just over eight ounces and measuring 6.1 x 2.2 x 1.57 inches, the new Memor X3 is just a smitten larger and heavier than its predecessor.

On the OS side, the Memor X3 can be ordered with the Core or Pro version of Windows CE 6.0 (the predecessor used either Windows CE 5.0 or Windows Mobile 6.1). What's the difference between the Core and the Professional versions of Windows CE 6.0? The Core version has about 600 basic OS components. The Pro version adds remote desktop connectivity, data sync via Active Sync, web browsing, media playback, and email.

Windows CE 6.0 Pro models are now powered by a 806MHz version of the Marvel XScale PXA310 processor whereas the CE 6.0 Core models still use the 604MHz version. WiFi has been upgraded to 802.11a/b/g/n. Wired communication remains the same with a mini-B USB port, and a communication/charger connector for use with the cradle. Both the standard and the optional hi-capacity battery are more powerful. The keypad lost its joystick, but gained two programmable keys. The last Memor we reviewed had full phone functionality; the new Memor X3 does not have a WWAN option because Datalogic did not see a demand for it in this form factor.

Datalogic Memor X3 vs. original Memor

Model	Memor X3	Memor
Introduced	2014	2009, updated 2011
OS: Windows	WinCE 6.0 Pro or Core	WinCE 5.0 or Windows Mobile 6.1
Processor	624/806MHz Marvell PXA310	624MHz Marvell PXA310
RAM/ROM	256MB/512MB	128MB/256MB
Expansion slots	micro SD/SDHC	micro SD
Display type	Reflective TFT	Reflective TFT
Display	2.4"/240 x 320 pixel	2.2"/240 x 320 pixel
Digitizer	Resistive	Resistive
Battery	3.7V 1430 or 2300 mAh (5.3/8.5 Watt hours)	3.7V 1100 or 2000 mAh (4.1/7.4 Watt hours)
Keypad	23-key, 2 programmable	23-key, joystick
Size (inches)	2.2 x 6.1 x 1.6	2.2 x 6.0 x 1.6
Weight (oz.)	8.2	8.1
Available scan engines	Laser, linear imager, 2D imager	Laser, 2D imager
Temp. range	14° to 122°	32° to 130°
WiFi	802.11a/b/g/n	802.11a/b/g

A micro-SD Card slot, supporting SDHC, offers expansion, and the built-in barcode laser scanner with Datalogic's patented "Green Spot" good read confirmation can read GS1 Databar, EAN/UPC, Code 39, 2/5 Codes, Plessey, Codabar, Code 128, EAN128, MSI, Code 93, and Code 11. Alternately, the Memor X3 can be ordered with a 2D area imager or — new — a linear imager for high responsiveness in reading poorly printed or damaged codes.

Despite its light weight, the Memor X3 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 14 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit (the predecessor handled 32 to 122 degrees), so it can now be used in colder outdoor temperatures.

Datalogic targets the Memor X3 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 Wavelink terminal emulation, the Datalogic Pal Application Manager and locked Web Browser, as well as Wavelink Avalanche help make the most of the Memor's wireless data communications abilities.