Rugged flashlight-style RFID Reader
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

The Motorola (formerly Symbol) MC9090-G builds on the superb MC9000 platform by incorporating technology updates as well as voice and data connection to co-workers, clients, and associates. On the technology side, the MC9090-K uses the 624MHz version of Marvell's XScale PXA270 processor, 64MB of RAM and 128MB Flash, and a SD Card slot for memory expansion. It has onboard 802.11 a/b/g WiFi, Bluetooth 1.2, and PAN connectivity, and several alpha and numeric keypad options.

The MC9090-G has an RFID reader that supports US frequencies, APAC frequencies and the European standard ETSI EN 300 220. It can also accommodate an omnidirectional 1D/2D imaging engine that not only reads symbologies but also captures grayscale images and signatures. The MC9090-G uses the Windows Mobile 5.0 Premium Edition OS platform.

Since this handheld can be used in demanding environments, it offers IP64 sealing and an impressive 6-foot drop specification. Motorola also states a "tumble spec": 2,000 3-foot tumbles at room temperature. An operating temperature range of -4 to 122 degree Fahrenheit facilitates use in just about any environment. The powerful 15.8 watt-hour battery delivers full-shift operation. A pistol grip reduces fatigue in extended bar code scanning and RFID tag reading applications.

In April of 2010, Motorola announced what seems extended capabilities for the MC9090-G in the form of the MC9090-G RFID ER handheld reader that "leverages the award-winning features of the existing MC9090-G and adds extended range (ER) bar code scanning to increase productivity across the supply chain." ER offers the ability to capture 1D bar codes from as close as four inches to as far as 40 feet - eliminating the need and associated costs of using multiple devices for disparate and specific work tasks.