Getac announces 12.5-inch rugged tablet with detachable keyboard option
Getac introduced the K120, a fully rugged 12.5-inch tablet designed to meet the challenges faced by public safety personnel around the world, but suitable for numerous other demanding applications. Implemented as a "detachable laptop," the K120 can be used either as a tablet or in conjunction with an optional value-added keyboard dock that allows use as a full-function laptop. The K140 further shines with an all quad-core 8th generation Intel Core processor lineup of available CPUs. [See RuggedPCReview's description, analysis and specs of the Getac K120] -- Posted Wednesday, September 19, 2018 by chb

DT Research designs 7-inch multifunctional rugged tablets that deliver unparalleled versatility
DT Research, the leading designer and manufacturer of purpose-built computing solutions for vertical markets, today announced the DT372AP and DT370CR rugged tablets, which have been precision designed to serve the needs of a myriad of users across an organization. DT Research tapped into decades of experience within construction, field services, government, healthcare, hospitality, logistics, manufacturing, military, transportation and warehousing to design a sleek, military-grade tablet with a 7-inch sunlight-readable display that is high performance, yet energy-efficient and includes robust information capture and wireless communications for seamless indoor-outdoor workflow. [See DT Research media release] -- Posted Monday, September 17, 2018 by chb

Janam boosts workforce productivity with new Android-based rugged mobile computer
Janam Technologies LLC, a leading provider of rugged mobile computers that scan barcodes and communicate wirelessly, today introduced its newest and most technologically advanced addition to its XG series of gun-shaped, rugged mobile computers. The XG200 features industry-leading design, delivers superior barcode scanning technology and enables peak performance in the most demanding work environments. [See Janam press release] -- Posted Thursday, September 13, 2018 by chb

Honeywell mobile computers validated for Google-led Android Enterprise Recommended program
Honeywell (NYSE: HON) today announced that three of its rugged mobile computers used by distribution center, logistics, delivery and retail workers have been validated for the Google-led Android Enterprise Recommended program, which helps businesses select the right devices to meet their needs. Inclusion in the program demonstrates that Honeywell's mobile computers meet strict technical specifications and extended lifecycle support requirements. Devices in the program provide customers with easy enrollment options, timely software and security updates, business-ready hardware features and support for multiple versions of the Android operating system. [See Honeywell media release] -- Posted Wednesday, September 12, 2018 by chb

Xplore rugged tablets enable MH Equipment's migration to fully paperless sales, service operations
Zebra Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: ZBRA), an innovator at the edge of the enterprise with solutions and partners that enable businesses to gain a performance edge, announced that MH Equipment has successfully transitioned to a fully paperless operation using a rugged tablet-based mobility solution from Xplore Technologies, which was recently acquired by Zebra, and TPI, a Platinum Xplore Partner. [See Zebra media release] -- Posted Wednesday, August 29, 2018 by chb

Waterproof, dustproof: Mobile device IP ratings, explained
In its latest Get Rugged blog entry, Juniper Systems discusses ingress protection rating, i.e. the system that condenses a device's resistance to dust and water into a simple 4-digit code. The article represents a great summary Q&A, including how, exactly, IP68 differs from IP67. [See Juniper's Waterproof, dustproof: Mobile device IP ratings, explained] -- Posted Thursday, August 23, 2018 by chb

Getac Technology first half 2018 sales up, buoyed by rugged PCs
According to DigiTimes, Getac Technology is optimistic about its performance in the second half of 2018, and expects to post a double-digit revenue growth for the whole year thanks to brisk demand for rugged PCs and automotive components, according to company chairman James Hwang. Getac had consolidated revenues of US$370 million for the first half of 2018, up 11.45% on year. In the first half of 2018, the ratio of revenues from sales of rugged computers surged to 48% from 42% in 2017, serving as a major revenue growth driver for the period. [See DigiTimes news] -- Posted Monday, August 20, 2018 by chb

Added: Panasonic Toughbook FZ-M1
Panasonic's compact and handy 7-inch Toughpad FZ-M1 has been around for a while. It's a tried-and-true design. Between that and Panasonic's frequent updates to the M1, the tablet remains fresh and relevant. The latest upgrades enhanced tech, changed the name to Toughbook, and made the M1 available in several application-specific models, including versions with depth and thermal cameras. [See description, analysis and specs of the Panasonic Toughbook FZ-M1] -- Posted Tuesday, August 7, 2018 by chb

Enhanced Panasonic FZ-G1 and FZ-M1 tablets deliver customized choices for evolving needs of mobile workers in demanding and extreme environments
Panasonic, an industry leading manufacturer of mobile computing solutions that are purpose-built for the way people work, announce the launch of the latest version of its acclaimed FZ-G1 and FZ-M1 tablets. These fully-rugged tablets are both leaders in their categories: the FZ-G1 remains one of the world's bestselling 10.1" tablet and the FZ-M1 is one of the lightest and thinnest in its class at just 1.27 pounds. [See Panasonic media release] -- Posted Thursday, August 2, 2018 by chb

First look: Panasonic Toughbook FZ-T1
On July 25, 2018, Panasonic announced the Toughbook FZ-T1, a rugged, elegant 5-inch Android v8.1-based combination of smartphone and handheld computer to further expand the company's lineup of rugged, durable devices for mobile workforces in a wide range of roles and industries, including retail and hospitality, manufacturing, transportation and logistics. IP68-sealed and able to handle 5-foot drops, the Toughbook T1 offers industrial-grade scanning and comprehensive onboard communication. [See description, analysis and specs of the Panasonic Toughbook T1] -- Posted Thursday, July 26, 2018 by chb

First look: Panasonic Toughbook FZ-L1
On July 25, 2018, Panasonic announced the Toughbook FZ-L1, a slim and sleek 7-inch Android v8.1-based tablet designed for data collection in retail stores, warehouses field service, transportation and delivery or many other environments where a fragile consumer tablet just won't do. Weighing less than a pound, the IP67-sealed Toughbook L1 includes an integrated barcode reader that is field-configurable for landscape or portrait modes. [See description, analysis and specs of the Panasonic Toughbook L1] -- Posted Thursday, July 26, 2018 by chb

Rugged and refined Toughbook N1 delivers the power and tools that workers demand
Panasonic, an industry leader in mobile computing solutions that are purpose-built for the way people work, today announced a major update to its popular and acclaimed Toughbook N1 rugged handheld device. The latest 4.7-inch device has been refined to meet the challenges of today's workplaces, with hardware and features designed to make capturing, sharing and analyzing data faster and easier than ever. [See Panasonic press release]
-- Posted Tuesday, July 24, 2018 by chb

A closer look at Panasonic's updated Android Oreo-based Toughbook FZ-N1 handheld
Panasonic originally launched the Android-based 4.7-inch Toughpad FZ-N1 early 2016, together with a Windows 10 IoT Mobile Enterprise-based sibling, the Toughpad FZ-F1. The Android version went on to be very popular, whereas with Microsoft's withdrawal from the mobile space, the FZ-F1 is now gone. To prove its commitment to the handheld space, Panasonic has upgraded the FZ-N1, now under the Toughbook brand, with a faster processor, enhanced electronics, more memory and storage, and various refinements. RuggedPCReview takes a first look at Panasonic's updated Toughbook handheld. [See description, analysis and specs of the Panasonic Toughbook FZ-N1] -- Posted Tuesday, July 24, 2018 by chb

Full review: Winmate M101BK tablet/vehicle-mount hybrid with integrated keyboard
The Winmate M101BK is not your typical tablet. It's a Windows 10 tablet with an integrated physical keyboard, one large enough to be actually useful. It has ten function keys. It's also a vehicle-mount computer that's light and handy enough to be used as a standalone tablet, with enough battery to power it through extended data collection and other tasks. [See full review of the Winmate M101BK -- Posted Tuesday, July 17, 2018 by chb

Winmate and JLT Mobile Computers to co-host InfoAG Conference
Winmate will be co-exhibiting at the InfoAG Conference with JLT Mobile Computers, a key partner that specializes in providing rugged wireless computers and IT solutions to the agriculture industry. The conference, titled “The Premier Event in Precision Agriculture,” taking place July 17-19 at Union Station in St. Louis, Missouri, United States, has been the premier event for the discussion and advancement of precision agriculture, drawing interest from agriculture professionals globally. [See InfoAG Conference and to register] -- Posted Monday, July 16, 2018 by chb

Case study: Panasonic's partnership with the grants office helps Colorado first responders
Two small cities in Colorado, Canon and Trinidad, were looking to implement mobile technology for their first responder network. However, like many small public sector agencies, they were worried about having room in their budgets for these much needed new mobile computers. But working with Panasonic enabled them to discover new avenues for funding that they didn’t know were available to them. [See Panasonic's partnership with the grants office helps Colorado first responders] -- Posted Friday, July 13, 2018 by chb

Juniper Systems donates $88k worth of data collection devices to Utah State University's College of Natural Resources
Since the beginning, Juniper Systems has put an importance on education, conserving natural resources, and serving the community. By donating 25 Mesa 2 Rugged Tablets, 6 Geode Sub-meter GPS Receivers, and all the appropriate accessories to Utah State University’s Quinney College of Natural Resources, we strive to continue this focus. These data collection tools will be used to educate undergraduate students on the basics of modern GIS and field data collection and to support graduate student and professor field research projects around the world. [See Juniper Systems donates $88k worth of data collection devices to Utah State University's College of Natural Resources] -- Posted Thursday, July 5, 2018 by chb

Full review: RuggON Rextorm PX501
Now in its 3rd generation, RuggON Corporation's Rextorm PX501 has always been one of the toughest, most polished rugged tablets available. Designed as a general purpose rugged tablet, the PX501 can be used for a vast variety of applications. Its sharp and bright 10.1-inch display makes it especially suitable for graphics-intense mapping and positioning deployments where precision and minute details matter. The powerful Intel "Kaby Lake" processor makes for excellent performance and very good battery life. A very compelling rugged tablet solution that convinces on every level. [See full review of the RuggON Rextorm PX501] -- Posted Thursday, July 5, 2018 by chb

Zebra Technologies to acquire Xplore Technologies
Zebra Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: ZBRA), and Xplore Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: XPLR) today announced that their boards of directors have approved a definitive agreement in which Zebra will acquire all outstanding common stock of Xplore for $6.00 per share in cash. Under the terms of the agreement, Zebra plans to effect the acquisition via a tender offer. [See Zebra press release] -- Posted Thursday, July 5, 2018 by chb

Xplore Technologies reports fiscal 2017 financials, announces acquisition by Zebra
Xplore Technologies reported financials for all of their fiscal 2018 that ended ended March 31, 2018. For the entire fiscal year 2018, Xplore reported revenues of US$86.9 million, up 11.6% from US$77.9 million for fiscal 2017. There was net profit of US$0.3 million for the full year, compared with a net loss of US$2.6 million in 2017. Xplore reported revenue of $20.3 million for fiscal Q4, 2018, up 20% from the $16.9 million in the year-ago fourth quarter. CEO Tom Wilkinson stated: “Our success as the #2 global provider of rugged tablets and strong growth outlook earned the notice of Zebra Technologies, the global leader in rugged mobile computers, barcode scanners and barcode printers. This morning we announced an agreement to be acquired by Zebra for $6.00 per share." [See Xplore fiscal 2018 financials] -- Posted Thursday, July 5, 2018 by chb

Case Study highlights how OEM-level diagnostic solutions provider partnered with ruggedized computer manufacturer resulting in valuable service bay tool
Durabook Americas, Inc., the North American subsidiary of Twinhead International Corporation, announced today the release of a new case study outlining the unique and flexible relationship AE Tools and Durabook Americas have established, resulting in the marriage of AE Tools' OEM-level diagnostics solution and Durabook's SA14 semi-rugged laptop. The combination of these two organizations, both known in their markets for quality, innovation, and commitment to their customers, means automotive aftermarket service centers have a world-class diagnostic solution they can rely on for years to come. The new case study can be downloaded at: http://bit.ly/Durabook-AETools [See Durabook Americas press release] -- Posted Friday, June 29, 2018 by chb

Full review: ARBOR Technology SCP Cube
Uninterruptible power supplies are crucial in today's world. And especially so with sensitive electronic systems. One problem is that the batteries in UPS systems are heavy, pose fire risks, have limited life cycles, and relatively narrow operating temperature ranges. An interesting option are supercapacitor-based systems such as ARBOR Technology's SCP Cube, a 2-in-1 supercapacitor power and environmental monitoring solution offers compelling alternative to battery-based systems in terms of safety, maintenance, longevity. [See full review of the ARBOR Technology SCP Cube] -- Posted Tuesday, June 26, 2018 by chb

Honeywell's Dolphin CN80: Move to Android. Keep the keys.
Honeywell points out that with the various mobile Windows versions' end-of-life officially announced, it’s time to start thinking about transitioning to Android. To that extent, Honeywell offers the new Dolphin CN80, a thoroughly modern and ultra-rugged Android device with integrated industrial-grade scanning that's ready to tackle the transition to Android. With the help of integrated hardware keypads for those legacy apps still in use. Makes perfect sense. [See description, analysis and specs of the Honeywell Dolphin CN80] -- Posted Monday, June 25, 2018 by chb

Affordable, quick NVMe-based storage
Solid state disks (SSDs) have pretty much replaced hard disks in mobile technology, and especially in tablets. In rugged systems, the advantages of SSDs is huge. Much smaller, much tougher, much faster, and increasingly not much more expensive. So we see plenty of SATA SSDs in the products we test. What we don't see a lot of is NVMe-based SSDs that use a PCIe interface, usually in M.2 card form. Compared to SATA SSDs, PCIe-based SSDs are much faster, with 5-6 times the peak throughput. We'd love to see more rugged device manufacturers take advantage of that. Our friends at HotHardWare.com just did another informative review of NVMe-based storage that points out the advantages. [See Affordable, quick NVMe-based storage] -- Posted Wednesday, June 20, 2018 by chb

Full review: Xplore XSLATE L10 Rugged Tablet Platform
With the new XSLATE L10 platform Xplore Technologies evolved their latest rugged tablet into a comprehensive tablet ecosystem covering a wide range of performance and functionality demands. Available as a pure tablet (XSLATE L10), a version with hard handle and an optional integrated barcode reader (XPAD L10), and a 2-in-1 laptop replacement (XBOOK L10), the versatile platform is available with powerful quad-core 8th generation Intel Core processors as well as an entry-level Pentium processor. [See full review of the Xplore XSLATE L10] -- Posted Tuesday, June 19, 2018 by chb

Getac launches 7th generation of its rugged B300 laptop
Anyone in the market for a traditional, full-size rugged laptop computer rejoice: Getac has just upgraded its long-running, field-proven B300 to state-of-the-art processing and ancillary technology. Available with four different Intel 8th generation ("Coffee Lake") quad-core Core i5 and i7 processors, Getac offers very significant performance and efficiency upgrades to its workhorse rugged laptop that remains compatible with peripherals and mounts of every other B300 ever produced. [See description, analysis and specs of the Getac B300 Gen 7]. -- Posted Wednesday, June 13, 2018 by chb

Universal Stylus Initiative elects Board of Directors and adds Members to support adoption of Open Active Stylus Standard
The Universal Stylus Initiative (USI) elected eight member companies to its 2018 Board of Directors including representatives from Google, Hanvon, Intel, Lenovo, Solomon-Systech, Synaptics, Wacom and Waltop. "USI has a strong Board of Directors, an active and growing membership and the first and only open, non-proprietary active stylus specification," said Peter Mueller, chairman, USI. "Indications are that there will be released products based on the USI 1.0 Specification available this year. The industry adoption of USI will provide consumers with more stylus options, new capabilities and great performance across multiple classes of devices." [See USI press release] -- Posted Wednesday, June 13, 2018 by chb

Make IP67 the minimum standard for rugged handhelds
Few outside of the rugged computing and perhaps a few other sectors know what an "IP" rating means, or the specific significance of "IP67." Those inside those markets, however, cherish the designation for what it is — a degree of protection that brings peace of mind. If an electronic device is "IP67-sealed," that means neither dust nor water will get in. IP67 should be the minimum standard for any industrial handheld that may be used outdoors or near liquids. [Read RuggedPCReview.com EIC Conrad Blickenstorfer's "Make IP67 the minimum standard for rugged handhelds"] -- Posted Tuesday, June 5, 2018 by chb

The Google Chrome vs Android situation
SlashGear ran an article provocatively entitled "Tablets are dead, long live Chrome tablets!" in which the author argued that with Google's somewhat inexplicable lack of interest in Android on tablets, it'll only be a matter of time until Android is done on tablets and that "Chrome OS and Chromebooks are being groomed to do what Android tablets have not been able to in terms of productivity and usability." That may or may not be so, but it's indeed puzzling how Google essentially ignores Android on tablets. To this day, every Android rev acts as if it's on a phone and all device info is "About phone." So will Android tablets indeed become Chrome tablets? [See Tablets are dead, long live Chrome tablets!] -- Posted Tuesday, June 5, 2018 by chb

Mitsubishi Electric's Graphic Operation Terminal GOT2000 Series to add rugged model for use under extreme conditions
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO:6503) announced that its Graphic Operation Terminal GOT2000 Series, a type of human-machine-interface (HMI), would add a Rugged Model on May 30 to enable workers to monitor, operate and adjust machines that operate under extreme conditions, including very high temperatures, extra-bright lighting, strong vibrations or shock, and high water pressure. [See Mitsubishi press release] -- Posted Tuesday, May 29, 2018 by chb

Honeywell introduces future-proof Dolphin CT40 Android mobile computer with industrial-grade scanning
Honeywell continued fleshing out its line of enterprise-oriented Dolphin mobile computers with the introduction of the Dolphin CT40 on May 23, 2018. The new Android 7.1.1-based, Qualcomm Snapdragon 600-powered Dolphin CT40 was designed to be a one-stop device for retail store associates and other mobile workers that can handle everything from order picking at a distribution center to in-store merchandising to home delivery and more. [See description, analysis and specs of the Honeywell Dolphin CT40] -- Posted Wednesday, May 23, 2018 by chb

Added: Unitech PA730 5-inch rugged Android computer
The Unitech PA730 is an excellent solution for applications where consumer smartphones in a case just won't do. Sporting a super-sharp and very bright 5-inch screen with capacitive multi-touch, high resolution cameras, and excellent connectivity, the (Verizon-certified) Unitech PA730 also comes with battery hot-swapping, industrial-grade scanning, and ruggedness far beyond anything a consumer device can offer. [See description, analysis and specs of the Unitech PA730] -- Posted Tuesday, May 22, 2018 by chb

Added: Xplore Technologies M60 rugged Android handheld
Answering their customers' request for smaller rugged devices, Xplore Technologies released their new Xplore M60 handheld computer. Powered by an octa-core Snap Dragon 625 processor and running Android Version 8 "Oreo" on a retina class 6-inch screen, the 13-ounce M60 is IP68 sealed, runs up to 22 hours on a charge, has dual cameras (5/13mp), USB Type C, and offers an industrial-grade 2D scanner. Starting at US$999. [See RuggedPCReview.com's description, analysis and specs of the Xplore M60] -- Posted Friday, May 18, 2018 by chb

Juniper Systems Celebrates 25 Years of Business
Juniper Systems’ 150+ employees celebrated the company's 25th anniversary by enjoying a night filled with company memories, good food, all kinds of entertainment, and loads of laughter. CEO DeVon Labrum addressed the company by reflecting on the earliest product successes, the current exceptional growth, and all the individuals who made the past 25 years a success. [See Juniper Systems Celebrates 25 Years of Business] -- Posted Friday, May 18, 2018 by chb

Xplore unveils the M60, its first rugged, ultra-mobile Android handheld computer
Xplore Technologies Corp. announced today that it is introducing a 6" handheld computer to its expanding rugged mobility portfolio: the Xplore M60. This Qualcomm Octa-Core powered and Android 8.0 Oreo ultra-mobile device will be available in two enterprise-ready configurations when it starts shipping in June 2018 — with and without a built-in barcode scanner (base U.S. MSRP $1199 and $999). [See Xplore press release] -- Posted Tuesday, May 15, 2018 by chb

First-in-Market xKeyPad application by MobileDemand expands Windows tablet mobile workforce capability
MobileDemand, a leading rugged tablet provider, has introduced xKeyPad, a patent-pending software utility to complement the company's Family of Tablets, Microsoft Surface Bundles, or any tablet running Windows 10. xKeyPad is a productivity tool used to enter numbers faster with a persistent numeric keypad, also offering optional barcode scanning that utilizes the integrated camera to scan 25 different types of barcodes. The app enables data collection on a single device in a mobile environment, without the need for add-on keyboards, expensive integrated barcode scanner options, or separate handheld scanner. [See MobileDemand press release and RuggedPCReview's assessment of xKeyPad] -- Posted Thursday, May 10, 2018 by chb

Updated: Full review of ARBOR Gladius GT-500 and GT-500-V
ARBOR has updated their popular rugged 5-inch GT-500 Android handheld computer from Android 5.1 to Android 7.0 "Nougat." Android 7.0 improves device performance and operation in many ways, including optimized management of background processes, faster system updates, notifications overhaul, split-screen operation, power management. ARBOR also launched a special Verizon-approved version, the Gladius GT-500-V, which includes additional improvements. [See updated full review of ARBOR GT-500 and GT-500-V] -- Posted Monday, May 7, 2018 by chb

Added: Trimble TSC7 Controller
Trimble Trimble describes the Windows 10-based TSC7 Controller as a new field solution for land and civil construction surveyors, and that the TSC7, combined with specialized software, defines the next generation of data collection and computing for mobile workers. To accomplish that, Trimble took a 7-inch tablet and merged it with a large handle that includes both a small QWERTY keypad as well as a separate numeric keypad and function keys. Interesting solution! [See description, analysis and specs of the Trimble TSC7] -- Posted Monday, May 7, 2018 by chb

VDC: Rugged tablet market to reach $840 million by 2021
According to VDC, the competitive environment for the global rugged tablet market is the most dynamic it has been in years and is expected to reach $840 million by 2021. Overall, Windows remains the dominant operating system for rugged tablets; however, traction for Android has been growing rapidly due to the rising costs of supporting legacy Windows platforms. While the use cases for tablets with smaller displays are not yet mainstream, VDC expects these deployments to hold the greatest upside potential for vendors to explore. [See VDC report outline] -- Posted Friday, May 4, 2018 by chb

IDC: 334 million smartphones shipped Q1 2018
According to preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, smartphone vendors shipped a total of 334.3 million units during the first quarter of 2018 (1Q18), resulting in a 2.9% decline when compared to the 344.4 million units shipped in the first quarter of 2017. Samsung was on top with 78.2 million, Apple second with 52.2 million, and then the Chinese trio of Huawei, Xiaomi and OPPO. For comparison, back in 2010, it was 55 million phones, with the ranking Nokia, RIM, Apple, HTC and Motorola. [See IDC release] -- Posted Wednesday, May 2, 2018 by chb

Durabook Americas expands executive team to fuel continued growth
Durabook Americas, Inc., the North American subsidiary of Twinhead International Corporation, announced today that due to increased demand for its DURABOOK product line and an aggressive growth strategy, the company has expanded its executive ranks. Former President, Tom Wang will now serve as Chief Operating Officer, and industry veteran, Joe Guest, will take the helm as the company's new President. Mr. Guest will focus on expanding the team's sales force, and building customer-driven rugged computing solutions for the military, law enforcement, field service and other markets with highly mobile workforces operating in demanding environments. [See Durabook Americas press release] -- Posted Tuesday, May 1, 2018 by chb

Panasonic introduces a fully rugged tablet with integrated Intel® RealSense 3D camera to capture images on the move
Panasonic today announced the fully rugged Panasonic Toughpad FZ-M1 tablet with integrated Intel® RealSense 3D camera designed to measure and process 3D dimensions on the go. The solution, launched today at Hannover Messe in Germany, is ideal for use in a wide range of industry applications including warehouse space optimisation, plant and asset maintenance, wound monitoring in healthcare and crime scene and insurance claim photos. The handy 7" Panasonic FZ-M1 with Intel® RealSense D410 camera is a Windows-based rugged tablet that allows field workers to take and process accurate 3D measurement on the spot and use the images with other line of business applications. [See Panasonic press release] -- Posted Monday, April 23, 2018 by chb

Full review: Panasonic Toughbook 33
You thought traditional fully-rugged, full-size laptops would never change, but with the Toughbook 33 Panasonic took the next step. Paying homage to the tablet trend and trusting advanced technology to make the move from all-in-one laptop to a fully detachable 2-in-1 hybrid work, Panasonic did it. The Toughbook 33 is a state-of-the-art 12-inch high-res hybrid that can be a Intel Kaby Lake-powered 3.4 lbs rugged tablet, or a fully functional laptop thanks to a very well integrated keyboard part with extra ports and functionality. How well does it all work? See for yourself. [See full review of the Panasonic Toughbook 33] -- Posted Wednesday, April 18, 2018 by chb

Trimble announces new field solutions for land and construction surveying
Trimble announced the Trimble TSC7 Controller, a new field solution for land and civil construction surveyors. The TSC7, combined with specialized software, defines the next generation of data collection and computing for mobile workers. The Trimble TSC7 brings powerful enhancements to the field and was designed based on customer feedback. It provides a tablet experience with a physical keyboard and a sunlight readable 7-inch touchscreen. Front- and rear-facing cameras allow users to video conference their office from the field for on-the-job support, and capture high definition videos and images that provide valuable context to their data and clients. [See Trimble press release] -- Posted Wednesday, April 18, 2018 by chb

Estone Technology releases two new Android powered tablets
Estone Technology will release two new rugged tablet PCs, featuring Android operating systems, and the durability and usability the public has come to expect from Estone Technology products. The 8-inch MJ-80 and 10-in ML-100 Android tablets are specialized for medical and industrial rugged duty, respectively, but are more than flexible enough to meet the demands of almost any industry. Both have endured MIL-STD-810G Ruggedness testing, and are rated IP65 waterproof, have an extremely durable optically-bonded screen, and are equipped to go almost anywhere. [See Estone Technology press release] -- Posted Tuesday, April 17, 2018 by chb

Full review: Durabook R8300
If you're in the market for a standard full-size, fully-rugged laptop, there aren't many around anymore. And especially so if you need state-of-the-art features and performance. Customers, however, can still count on Durabook Americas. Their Durabook R8300 is a very mature platform that has already gone through years and several generations of extensive field use and testing across the globe. Now available with Intel 7th generation "Kaby Lake" Core processors, the R8300 is solid as a rock, remains fully compatible with all prior R8300 and GD-Itronix 8x00 models, and provides strong performance and good battery life for use in even the most environmentally demanding environments. [See full review of the Durabook R8300 by Durabook Americas.] -- Posted Monday, April 16, 2018 by chb

Rugged Tablet PC provider MobileDemand introduces industry-first mobile dimensioning system
MobileDemand has introduced an industry-first, mobile dimensioning system across the MobileDemand rugged tablet product line. By integrating the Intel® RealSenseTM Depth Camera D415 with MobileDemand's Family of Rugged Tablets, MobileDemand can now provide businesses in the transportation, supply chain management, logistics, shipping, warehouse industries and more with the ability to quickly, automatically, and accurately acquire dimensions, and calculate volumes and dimensional weights of boxes and pallets. [See MobileDemand press release] -- Posted Thursday, April 12, 2018 by chb

Zebra study: 40% of parcels delivered within 2 hours by 2028
Zebra Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: ZBRA), the market leader in rugged mobile computers, barcode scanners and barcode printers enhanced with software and services to enable real-time enterprise visibility, today announced the results of its Future of Fulfillment Vision Study, a global body of research analyzing how manufacturers, transportation and logistics (T&L) firms, and retailers are preparing to meet the growing needs of the on-demand economy. In response to today's online-buying, smartphone-wielding consumer that expects a seamless, faster purchasing journey, the study revealed that 78 percent of logistics companies expect to provide same-day delivery by 2023 and 40 percent anticipate delivery within a two-hour window by 2028. [See Zebra press release] -- Posted Wednesday, April 11, 2018 by chb

Which Geode carrying/mounting option is best for you?
While Juniper Systems' latest blog article specifically deals with mounting options for their discrete Geode Sub-meter GPS receiver, the excellent article really touches upon a larger topic: while all the tech gear we know and love is generically referred to as "mobile," some devices are more mobile than others and some benefits from specific mounting and carrying for optimal usability. That can include trays, straps, poles, handles, bags, hooks, clamps and more. [Read Which Geode carrying/mounting option is best for you?] -- Posted Wednesday, April 11, 2018 by chb

Datalogic SH15 Blackline and SH21 Blackline series: tough industrial computers
Datalogic, a global leader in the automatic data capture and process automation markets, is pleased to announce the launch of the next generation of industrial computers, featuring the SH15 Blackline and SH21 Blackline series. Datalogic entered the market of industrial vehicle mount computers in 2017, thanks to the acquisition of SOREDI Touch Systems GmbH, of Munich (Germany), a global technology leader for industrial computers. After the recent introduction of the Rhino II 10" and 12" vehicle mount computers (VMC), setting new standards for ruggedness in the warehouse, Datalogic now extends the industrial computer line to factory shop-floor applications: The SH15 Blackline and SH21 Blackline series are industrial touch screen computers, the perfect solution when rugged and sealed devices are mandatory. [See Datalogic press release] -- Posted Wednesday, April 11, 2018 by chb

Xplore blog: Mobile workers take note of tablets’ handwriting skills
Few remember that tablets are not new. In the early 1990s tablets were the hottest thing. Unfortunately, the technology wasn't there yet, and the designers of those early tablets built them around handwriting recognition. Which also wasn't there yet, and may never be. Fast-forward to today. Tablet technology has arrived, but mostly without pens. It's usually just finger-tapping. And handwriting recognition is a non-issue. Heck, cursive writing has even dropped from the Common Core Curriculum Standards! The folks at Xplore Technologies think that's most unfortunate. Because a rugged tablet can be one of the best platforms for real-time handwritten documentation when you’re far away from your desk. [See Mobile Workers Take Note of Tablets’ Handwriting Skills] -- Posted Friday, March 30, 2018 by chb

Janam launches industry's most versatile rugged mobile computer
Janam Technologies LLC, a leading provider of rugged mobile computers that scan barcodes and communicate wirelessly, today introduced the newest and most powerful addition to its XM series of key-based, rugged mobile computers. The XM75 optimizes productivity for organizations that require a flexible device for capturing and processing business-critical data. With a brilliant 4.3-inch capacitive touch screen and backlit numeric keypad, the XM75 is one of the only rugged mobile computers that is specially designed for mobile workers that prefer keypad and touch screen functionality in the same device. [See Janam press release] -- Posted Thursday, March 29, 2018 by chb

Harris Corporation introduces new two-channel leader radio that significantly improves US Army battlefield communications
Harris Corporation (NYSE: HRS) has introduced a new advanced two-channel handheld radio that simultaneously delivers voice and data networking to U.S. Army leaders, significantly improving critical battlefield communications. The AN/PRC-163 Army Radio is easy to use, lightweight and rugged, and features a flexible software-defined architecture — enabling users to quickly add new waveforms and applications from the battlefield. [See Harris press release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 27, 2018 by chb

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