January 2025

Full AI on a $6,000 PC
There's much talk of being "AI-ready" which generally means hardware conducive to the type of processing required for AI-type utilities and queries. The eventual goal, however, is to do AI processing on mobile devices without access to the cloud. That, for now, means very small subsets of a full AI. As is, someone has shown how to build a $6,000 PC that could accommodate all of (open-source) DeepSeek. Wow. But it requires way more hardware than we'll see in mobile gear anytime soon. See post on how it's done on X -- Posted Thursday, January 30, 2025

Cincoze launches new compact industrial computers (DC-1300 series) for smart manufacturing
Rugged embedded computer brand Cincoze has launched the latest addition to the Rugged Computing DIAMOND product line, the Entry Performance & Compact industrial computer DC-1300 series. It packs maximum performance and expansion flexibility in a compact 185 x 131 x 56.5 mm chassis. The new generation DC-1300 series can be equipped with an Intel® Alder Lake-N processor, supports the essential I/O interfaces for industrial applications, and provides complete wireless transmission solutions (Wi-Fi, 5G, GNSS, etc.). The DC-1300 continues the legacy of the DC series for successful integration in space-limited industrial automation applications, providing customers with the latest solutions. [See Cincoze media release] -- Posted Friday, January 24, 2025

Datalogic signs an exclusive €9M+ contract for the supply of advanced logistics technology solutions
Datalogic, a global leader in the automatic data capture and industrial automation markets, is proud to announce the award of €9 million+ project with a major European logistics provider, known for its extensive operations in mail, parcel, and e-commerce across relevant countries in the Continental Europe. This collaboration underscores Datalogic's dedication to providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving demands of the logistics and e-commerce industries. [See Datalogic media release] -- Posted Friday, January 24, 2025

What's your laptop or tablet's gas mileage?
When you buy a car, you want to know its gas mileage. It may affect your purchase decision. But what is your rugged laptop's or tablet's "gas mileage"? We're suggesting a standard, and post the "gas mileage" of leading mobile systems we benchmarked in our RuggedPCReview.com testing lab. [Read What's your laptop or tablet's gas mileage?] -- Posted Monday, January 20, 2025

PROMAT 2025 -- Don’t miss the biggest supply chain event of 2025
When you’re focused on the day-to-day of running your supply chain, it’s hard to determine how the latest trends will impact your business and easy to forget what potential is out there to take your operations to new levels of success. What if you and your team could examine the latest supply chain innovations, learn about the latest trends, and engage with and build your professional network all over one week at one location? ProMat 2025 is that gathering—the world's largest supply chain industry event for solution-sourcing, learning, networking, and connecting with friends and industry peers. With 1,100 exhibits, four keynotes and 200 educational sessions, this is the one event you really can’t afford to miss in 2025. Watch this video to see for yourself all that ProMat has to offer. [Register at no cost] -- Posted Thursday, January 16, 2025

Introducing the Winmate D140 rugged tablet series
Winmate Inc., a global leader in rugged computing solutions, proudly announces the launch of the D140 Rugged Tablet Series, designed to empower industries with advanced technology, exceptional durability, and seamless functionality. Engineered to perform in demanding environments, the D140 is the ultimate solution for industrial applications, offering cutting-edge features that enhance productivity and efficiency. [See Winmate media release] -- Posted Thursday, January 16, 2025

Juniper Systems Limited names Dave Cawsey as New Business Development Manager for the UK & Ireland
Juniper Systems a leading manufacturer of ultra-rugged handheld computers, precision GNSS receivers, and GIS mapping/data collection software, announced an addition to their UK & Ireland office in Tardebigge. Dave Cawsey joins the team as the UK & Ireland New Business Development Manager with a focus on growing the Juniper market share in both traditional and new markets within the UK and Ireland. With a strong history in the rugged computing industry, Mr. Cawsey brings his expertise from some of the top tech companies in this field including; IBM, Husky Computers Ltd, Itronix, General Dynamics, Avantec PTY and Handheld Group. [See Juniper Systems media release] -- Posted Thursday, January 16, 2025

RuggON launches VIKING II: transforming fleet management with unmatched technology and flexibility
RuggON Corporationproudly introduces the VIKING II, a groundbreaking Android-based fleet management device designed to tackle the toughest industrial challenges. Combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional durability, the VIKING II raises the bar for operational efficiency in logistics, mining, construction, and public safety. Designed with adaptability and performance in mind, it empowers businesses to excel in even the harshest environments. [See RuggON media release] -- Posted Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Getac's next generation ZX10 is the lightest 10-inch fully rugged tablet currently available on the market
Getac Technology Corporation (Getac), a leading provider of rugged computing and mobile video solutions, today announced the launch of its next generation ZX10 10-inch fully rugged Android tablet, which combines lightweight design with powerful AI-ready performance and intuitive Android functionality for exceptional performance in the field. The next generation ZX10 is intended for professionals working in industries such as public safety, utilities, and transportation and logistics, who need devices they can trust in the challenging environments and scenarios they encounter daily. [See Getac media release] -- Posted Tuesday, January 14, 2025

RuggON launches VIKING II: transforming fleet management with unmatched technology and flexibility
RuggON Corporationproudly introduces the VIKING II, a groundbreaking Android-based fleet management device designed to tackle the toughest industrial challenges. Combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional durability, the VIKING II raises the bar for operational efficiency in logistics, mining, construction, and public safety. Designed with adaptability and performance in mind, it empowers businesses to excel in even the harshest environments. [See RuggON media release] -- Posted Tuesday, January 14, 2025

FULL REVIEW: Dell Pro Rugged 14
"Semi-rugged" laptops are for work in tough environments, but not all-out tough, which is considerably more expensive. Dell's entry in this class is the compact, elegant 14-inch Dell Pro Rugged 14, the successor to the company's 5430 Rugged, but with powerful new Intel 14th generation Core Ultra, AI-ready tech (including a dedicated Microsoft CoPilot key). The laptop, which starts at under $2,000, is available with an optional NVIDIA's RTX 500 Ada Generation laptop GPU, and we tested and benchmarked machines with and without that chipU. [See the full review of the Dell Pro Rugged 14] -- Posted Monday, January 13, 2025

Smart automotive innovations with Winmate & HPC Systems at Automotive World 2025
Winmate announced its participation in Automotive World 2025, a premier international exhibition held at Tokyo Big Sight, Japan, from January 22 to January 24, 2025. Together with our partner HPC Systems Inc., we invite you to Booth E55-14 to explore our groundbreaking innovations designed to transform the automotive and AI landscape. We will showcase a diverse lineup of advanced solutions, including rugged tablets, rugged laptops, vehicle-mounted computers (VMCs), robotic control stations, and AI Embedded Computers. [See Winmate show information] -- Posted Thursday, January 9, 2025

Zebra Technologies introduces new AI solutions to empower retail frontline operations
Zebra Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: ZBRA), a global leader in digitizing and automating frontline workflows, today announced several new products and AI innovations for the retail industry. Zebra's solutions will be showcased in booth #3303 as part of Zebra's AI-powered Modern Store at NRF 2025 Retail's Big Show on Jan. 12-14, 2025, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York. [See Zebra media release] -- Posted Thursday, January 9, 2025

Getac expands partnership with RAM® Mounts to increase worker productivity via safe and secure device mounting
Getac Technology Corporation, Inc., a leading producer of rugged hardware technology and intuitive software, announced an expanded partnership with RAM® Mounts, the leading manufacturer of rugged mounting hardware for mobile devices. This partnership supports mobile workers with increased collaboration abilities and software to streamline mundane responsibilities, which ultimately enhances workflow efficiency, increases general productivity, and most importantly increases worker safety. RAM® now offers mounting capabilities for all Getac Android devices including the new ZX80 dock, to improve mobile worker productivity and safety. [See Getac media release] -- Posted Thursday, January 9, 2025

Havis introduces DC power supplies purpose-built for Dell devices in mobile workspaces
Havis, a leading global provider of rugged mobility and mounting solutions, announces the launch of its latest rugged DC Power Supply, engineered for Dell mobile computing devices in demanding vehicle environments. Designed to convert vehicle power into safe, stable energy, Havis' DC Power Supplies ensure uninterrupted performance and secure charging for docked Dell laptops & tablets. Whether for public safety or critical infrastructure industries, this purpose-built power solution supports the demands of mobile professionals who rely on consistent uptime. [See Havis media release] -- Posted Wednesday, January 8, 2025

FULL REVIEW: Getac K120 rugged 12.5-inch 2-in-1
Addressing the demands of customers who like the functionality of a traditional laptop but not the extra weight and bulk when in the field, Getac designed their K120 as a relatively light and handy standalone tablet that combines with its optional keyboard to provide complete laptop functionality. RuggedPCReview examined the heavily upgraded and enhanced third generation in detail and found much to like. [See full review of the Getac K120 rugged 12.5-inch 2-in-1] -- Posted Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Avalue presents new HPS-SIEU4A/HPS-SIEUTA servers
Avalue Technology Inc., a global leader in industrial computing solutions believes that with AI applications driving rapid development in high-performance computing, there will also be a surge in power demand, making green computing an important mandate. Addressing this issue, Avalue introduces its high-performance and low-power edge system solution, the HPS-SIEU4A/HPS-SIEUTA. [See Avalue media release] -- Posted Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Digi International drives digital transformation with the launch of Digi X-ON
Digi International, a global provider of Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity solutions, announced the launch of Digi X-ON™, a breakthrough edge-to-cloud IoT solution that provides the components needed for IoT systems from one trusted and reliable supplier. Removing the barriers of integrating, deploying and scaling industrial IoT systems, Digi X-ON integrates hardware, software, and cloud connectivity into a single, secure, and reliable platform that delivers business value — supporting many different applications and use cases such as connected cities, smart utilities, industrial IoT and smart agriculture. [See Digi X-ON media release] -- Posted Tuesday, January 7, 2025

RuggON unveils AI-enhanced, SATCOM-ready VORTEX vehicle mount computer
RuggON Corporation, a subsidiary of Ubiqconn Technology and a leading provider of rugged mobile computing solutions, announces the VORTEX vehicle mount computer. Designed for challenging industrial environments, VORTEX delivers high-performance in demanding applications. The rugged system features a 7-inch touch panel and is powered by the latest Intel Raptor Lake Core processor. VORTEX integrates AI-driven capabilities for real-time data processing, predictive analytics, and enhanced automation. Designed to ensure reliable operation in remote locations, VORTEX supports satellite communication (SATCOM) for seamless connectivity. Its robust construction, including a fan-less design that endures harsh vibrations and shocks, sets a new standard for durability. [See RuggON media release] -- Posted Monday, January 6, 2025

Dell Technologies leads AI PC movement with new, redesigned PC portfolio
Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL) builds on decades of PC innovation with a new, simplified portfolio featuring on-device AI for greater end-user creativity and productivity. To accelerate AI PC adoption across enterprises, Dell also provides developers and IT administrators with the tools to seamlessly build and deploy AI applications to Dell AI PCs. As the number one provider of commercial AI PCs,2 Dell expands its portfolio with new product designs, increased performance and battery life, the latest silicon innovation and AI accelerators, and industry-leading capabilities across software, management and sustainability. Dell has unified its brand across PCs, displays, services and accessories to make it even easier for customers to find the right technology solutions they need today and in the future. [See Dell media release] -- Posted Monday, January 6, 2025

Rain Technology embeds visual security and delivers display innovation from smartphone to AR/VR
Whether for business or personal use, displays are central to our everyday experience. The amount and type of information displayed, the types of devices themselves, the hardware technologies, and the situations in which these devices are used all continue to expand at an incredible rate. As such, significant market opportunity exists for companies developing innovative solutions. Experts in optics and photonics with a legacy in 3D cinema, Rain Technology scientists are radically changing the playing field for visual privacy and superior optical performance in emerging display technologies, which will transform the market by enabling the type of experiences that drive mass adoption through quality and comfort. [See Rain Technology media release] -- Posted Monday, January 6, 2025

Trimble and Qualcomm deliver precise positioning solutions for automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers
Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) announced today it has extended its technology collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to deliver precise positioning solutions for automated vehicles ranging from automobiles to heavy trucking. Trimble's precise positioning engine, Trimble ProPoint™ Go™, will be integrated with the Snapdragon™ Auto 5G Modem-RF Gen 2, a key platform of the Snapdragon Digital Chassis™ solution, to provide positioning accuracy within 10 centimeters. Vehicles with the joint solution are expected to be on the roads by 2028. [See Trimble media release] -- Posted Monday, January 6, 2025

What happened in rugged computing 15 years ago: January 2010
In January 2010, RAM announced its MDT-Mate vehicle mounting solution. ABI Research said ARM-based processor platforms would overtake the x86 chips by 2013. Xplore launched a military version of its iX104C4 rugged tablet. A Justice Assistance Grant was used to buy GD-Itronix computers for the Butte, Montana, Police Department. Getac opened a sales office in Germany, and announced a 5-year warranty. LXE upgraded its VX8 Kärf and VX9 Förj vehicle-mounts. MobileDemand announced the ultra-compact xTablet 7000. UPS and Honeywell teamed on a next-gen UPS delivery handheld. Intel showed Wireless Display Technology. Analyst firm Morningstar praised Motorola for buying Symbol in 2007. Oh, and Apple announced the iPad. [See full January 2010 archive] -- Posted Monday, January 6, 2025

Navigate with confidence using Winmate's ECDIS Marine Panel PCs
Winmate Inc., a global leader in rugged computing solutions, reported that the maritime industry demands solutions that prioritize precision, reliability, and compliance. Advanced Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) are essential for safe and efficient navigation in today's complex waterways. Winmate's Certified ECDIS Marine Panel PC Series is designed to address these requirements, offering cutting-edge features, robust performance, and compliance with international maritime regulations. [See Winmate media release] -- Posted Thursday, January 2, 2025