Rugged flashlight-style handheld
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

The Motorola (formerly Symbol) MC9090-K 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, several alpha and numeric keypad options, and either a 1D standard range laser or an omnidirectional 1D/2D imaging engine that not only reads symbologies but also captures grayscale images and signatures. The MC9090-K uses the Windows Mobile 5.0 Premium or Phone Edition OS platform. And since this handheld will be used in demanding environment, 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.