New: Intermec CV41 rugged Windows CE-based forklift vehicle-mount computer
Intermec introduced the CV41 vehicle-mount computer designed primarily for fork lifts and similar warehouse operations vehicles. The handy Intel Atom-powered 3-pound device runs Windows CE, has an 8-inch WVGA touch screen with 900-nit option, a very complete 64-key keyboard, comprehensive wired and wireless connectivity, IP66 sealing, and it's also Vocollect voice-ready. [See description and specs of the Intermec CV41] -- Posted Thursday, February 2, 2012 by chb

Added: Bluebird Pidion mobile computers

RuggedPCReview.com has added the complete lineup of Bluebird's Pidion rugged and semi-rugged mobile computers. These include the BIP-5000 and BIP-6000 enterprise handhelds, the flashlight-style BIP-7000 industrial handheld, and the BM-170 enterprise PDA/smartphone. All are based on the 806MHz Marvel PXA320 processor and run either versions of Windows CE or Windows Mobile, with the BIP-6000 and BM-170 also announced as capable of running Android. -- Posted Tuesday, January 31, 2012 by chb

Intermec: new processors and Gobi 3000 for 70 Series rugged handhelds
Intermec announced two enhancements to its 70 Series of rugged handhelds. The first is a switch from the 600MHz TI OMAP 3530 processor, an older 65nm design, to a 1GHz TI Sitara 3715 chip, a newer 45nm design that is fully OMAP architecture compatible. While still using an ARM Cortex A8 core and a POWERVR SGX Graphics Accelerator, the 3715's faster clock speed, up to 2X graphics performance, and lower power consumption mean a considerable step up in performance. The second is that three of the four 70 Series models -- the CN70, CN70e, and CK70 -- can now be ordered with what Intermec calls its "Flexible Network radio" module based on Qualcomm's Gobi 3000 technology and usable on both CDMA and UMTS wireless networks, enabling automatic and seamless "in route" switching between different carrier networks. [See Intermec press release] -- Posted Monday, January 23, 2012 by chb

Rugged handhelds in commercials: Juniper Allegro MX
We always get a kick out of seeing a rugged device in a movie or commercial, and the Allegro MX ultra-rugged handheld from Juniper Systems certainly caught our eye in a commercial for the Waiariki Institute of Technology. [See commercial with the Juniper Allegro MX on YouTube] -- Posted Friday, January 20, 2012 by chb

Modular Psion XT15: tougher, faster, more versatile
A while ago Psion began making its rugged handhelds modular so that users could configure them exactly as they liked. The company now introduced their new Omnii XT15 rugged handheld that's not only faster, tougher and more modern, but also offers more display, communication, scanning and general configuration modules and options than ever before. [See description and specs of the Psion Omnii XT15 -- Posted Tuesday, January 17, 2012 by chb

DT Research's 430 POS handheld updated
DT Research announced that their DT430 POS handheld was updated to improve overall performance with a new ARM 11 core processor running at 800MHz, more RAM (512MB instead of 128), and 4GB flash instead of the original 128MB. 802.11a/b/g/n support provides faster network connection as well as support for Cisco CCX 4.0 for enterprise applications. A more powerful barcode scanner has a faster scan rate, better motion tolerance, and higher optical resolution -- Posted Monday, January 16, 2012 by chb

DAP Technologies upgrades super-compact rugged M100 data capture handheld
One of the smallest rugged handheld computers available, the DAP Technologies M1000, is getting a performance boost from RAM that’s been doubled to 256 MB. DAP’s IP65-sealed M1000 measures just 5.7 x 2.4 x 1 inches and weighs a minuscule 8.2 oz., making it a palm-sized and featherweight data capture solution for inventory control, picking and packing. -- Posted Monday, January 16, 2012 by chb

Intermec's first 2012 Realtime newsletter
Intermec's first Realtime newsletter of 2012 (see here) highlights a number of videos that showcase the use of Intermec rugged handhelds in various businesses to save time and money. There's also an interesting article by scanning expert Cedric Molton on the state of laser vs. 2D imaging (see Industry Insight: Imaging Goes Mainstream). -- Posted Friday, January 13, 2012 by chb

Aceeca shipping RFID handheld evaluation units
In Aceeca's latest newsletter, the New Zealand-based company says that RFID continues to gain momentum as RFID improves and prices decrease, with some tags now available for less than 10 cents. As a result, Aceeca is now shipping evaluation units of their first IP67-sealed Windows CE OR Palm OS Garnet based handheld. -- Posted Friday, January 13, 2012 by chb

Intermec Vocollect AccuNurse deployed at Texas nursing center
Intermec reports that its Vocollect business unit has implemented its interactive Vocollect AccuNurse voice technology at Pine Grove Nursing Center to deliver quality care to patients and residents while preparing for 2014 healthcare reform requirements. -- Posted Monday, January 9, 2012 by chb

DTResearch DT410/415: no-nonsense POS handhelds
We have added product pages on the DT410 and DT415 handhelds by DTResearch. DTResearch designed them as point-of-sale/point-of-service handheld terminals weighing about ten ounces. Both models run either Windows CE or Windows Mobile on a 533MHz Samsung processor and 3.5-inch resistive touch screen. Both are rugged enough for POS jobs and both have an integrated magnetic stripe reader. The DT415 adds a 1D/2D imager. [Read description and specs of the DTResearch DT410 and DT415] -- Posted Friday, January 6, 2012 by chb

Handheld acquires TimbaTec to strengthen Central European presence
The Handheld Group, a manufacturer of rugged PDAs and mobile devices, reports that it is strengthening its presence in the important German, Austrian and Swiss markets with the acquisition of the hardware division of its distribution partner Latschbacher. -- Posted Wednesday, January 4, 2012 by chb

Juniper System's Mesa fully secure via Apriva Authentication Suite
Juniper Systems announced that its Mesa Rugged Notepad has completed extensive testing and validation procedures to achieve full integration with the Apriva Authentication Suite that combines ISO 7816 based ID card reading via Bluetooth, lock-down without positive read, and AES 256 encryption of data transmitted outside the Mesa to deliver a secure access environment. [Read press release] -- Posted Wednesday, January 4, 2012 by chb

Added: full lineup of Janam rugged handhelds
Janam is a new York-based provider of an interesting lineup of rugged handheld computers that all aim to supply tried-and-true functionality in handy, durable packages and employing mature technology, both on the hardware and the software side. On the Windows side of things, Janam offers the Windows CE-based XM60+ and Windows Mobile-based XM66 (see here), and the XG100 with a gun-style handle that includes the unit's battery (see here). For those who seek to continue using Palm OS-based applications, Janam has the XP20 (160 x 160 mono) and XP30 (240 x 320 color) using the Palm 5.4.9 Garnet OS (see here). -- Posted Thursday, December 29, 2011 by chb

Winmate introduces hybrid 4.3-inch rugged handheld with capacitive touch
While most consumer smartphones run Android or the iOS and have capacitive touch screens, most rugged industrial handhelds still use resistive screens and Windows CE/Mobile. Winmate has now introduced the S430T hybrid device, a rugged industrial handheld with a conventional form factor, but equipped with projected capacitive touch and capable of running either Android 2.3.4, Windows CE 6.0 or Windows Mobile 6.5. The IP67-sealed device includes u-blox GPS, and can be equipped with optional WWAN, scanner or RFID. [See description and specs of the Winmate S430T] -- Posted Friday, December 16, 2011 by chb

Motorola Solution introduces MC2100 mobile computer
Motorola Solutions introduced the MC2100, a value-conscious enterprise mobile handheld computer for inventory management and similar tasks. Weighing just 8.5 ounces, the rugged MC2100 runs Windows Embedded CE 6.0 on a 624MHz Marvell PXA320 processor, has a 2.8-inch QVGA display, offers the choice of 1D laser, 1D imager, or 1D/2D imager, and includes push-to-talk. [See description and specs of the Motorola Solutions MC2100] -- Posted Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by chb

Intermec partners with intrinsic safety specialists to create explosion-protected mobile computer product
Intermec and German ecom instruments, a manufacturer of intrinsically safe mobile solutions for over 25 years, have entered a partnership to develop and deliver an explosion-protected mobile computer product for key markets requiring computing solutions for hazardous environments in 2012. In essence, this means that ecom will apply its expertise in modifying mobile devices to meet a variety of intrinsic safety standards to one or more of Intermec's handheld computers. -- Posted Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by chb

AIM/Intermec interview: RFID: Fixed vs. Hand-held Data Collection
AIM (Association for Automatic Identification and Mobility) ran an interesting interview on the issue of fixed vs. handheld data collection with Kurt Mensch, RFID product strategist at Intermec. [Read interview] -- Posted Friday, December 9, 2011 by chb

Added: Adlink TIOT Windows CE and Android rugged handhelds
Adlink Technology offers two rugged handhelds that at first sight look identical, the TIOT2000 and the TIOT9000. They are conventional, albeit well equipped, handhelds with 3.5-inch QVGA resistive displays, IP65 sealing, a 5-foot drop spec, and plenty of data capture functionality (1D/2D scanning, RFID, cameras, etc.). What's interesting is that one runs Windows CE 6.0 R3 whereas the other runs Andrid 2.3, with slight but significant differences in underlying technology and specs. [See Adlink TIOT2000 (Android) and TIOT9000 (Windows CE)] -- Posted Sunday, November 20, 2011 by chb

Juniper Systems introduces Mesa with Barcode Scanner
Juniper Systems introduced an important optional extension/enhancement to its unique 5.7-inch Mesa Rugged Notepad (see our full review), the Mesa with Barcode Scanner. The integrated high performance Motorola 1D/2D scanner (which can also be retrofitted to existing Mesas) reads all common 1D/2D symbologies, is compatible withmost barcode scanning software, and also comes with Juniper's own Barcode Connector utility. [See Juniper Mesa with Barcode Scanner brochure] -- Posted Wednesday, November 16, 2011 by chb

Datalogic releases new rugged 10.4-inch vehicle-mount panel computer
Datalogic Mobile launched the Datalogic Rhino 10, a rugged Microsoft Windows Embedded 6.0 R3-powered Vehicle Mount Computer designed for warehousing management in distribution centers, warehouses and manufacturing shop floors. The IP65-sealed panel has a bright 10.4-inch VGA touch screen, good connectivity, and can be ordered with an extended -22 to 140F temperature range. [See description and specs of the Datalogic Rhino 10] -- Posted Wednesday, November 2, 2011 by chb

TI introduces low-cost Sitara AM335x ARM Cortex-A8 processors
We're increasingly seeing Texas Instruments Sitara chips in products, and now TI introduced the new Sitara AM335x line of low cost but high performance ARM Cortex-A8 chips. The new line was designed specifically to provide low power consumption and reduced heat emissions to enable portable, pocket-sized, fanless applications. [See TI Sitara AN335x page -- Posted Tuesday, November 1, 2011 by chb

Nokia introduces first Windows Phone-based models
At Nokia World in London, the beleaguered phone maker introduced its first two Windows Phone 7.5-based products. The basic Nokia Lumia 710 and the fancy Lumia 800 both have 3.7-inch displays, a 1.4GHz Qualcomm MSM8255 CPU, WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1, and 512MB of RAM. The Lumia 800 is less than a quarter inch thick, has an AMOLED display, an 8mp camera with Carl Zeiss optics and HD video, and 16GB of storage. The Lumia 710 has a 5mp camera and 8GB of storage. Both phones have turn-by-turn navigation and will be available in the US early 2012. No contract pricing is US$595 for the Lumia 800 and US$380 for the Lumia 710. -- Posted Thursday, October 27, 2011 by chb

Juniper Systems to manufacture Tesla handheld for Topcon Positioning Systems
Juniper Systems announced a partnership with Topcon Positioning Systems, where Juniper Systems will manufacture the IP67-sealed, rugged Topcon Tesla, based on Juniper's Mesa handheld, as the newest data collector in Topcon's full lineup of rugged handheld computers and solutions for the survey industry. Three different Tesla models are available: the Standard, Geo, and Geo 3G. All models include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the Geo and Geo 3G add a 3.2MP camera and GPS receiver, and the Geo 3G tops it off with an integrated 3G data modem, network approved by AT&T. -- Posted Wednesday, October 26, 2011 by chb

Aceeca to retire Palm-based handheld, switch to multi-OS version
Aceeca reports that after a production life of almost ten years the MEZ1000, essentially a ruggedized implementation of the original Palm, is nearing end-of-life. This means Aceeca will phase in their new MEZ1500 which replaces the MEZ1000. The MEZ1500 offers both Garnet and WinCE operating systems, with various Linux options along with Android coming in future months. -- Posted Tuesday, October 25, 2011 by chb

Review: Advantech PCM-C3500 RISC-based SBC
While Intel-based CISC processors have pretty much dominated the desktop over the past couple of decades, the CISC vs. RISC debate is not dead and it's heating up again as ARM-powered tablets and smartphones are increasingly taking center stage. RISC processors with their low cost and minuscule power requirements can also play an important role in embedded systems. RuggedPCReview.com is taking a detailed look at Advantech's new ARM-based PCM-C3500 Series of single board computers that can run Windows CE, Linux and even Android. [See review and discussion of the Advantech PCM-C3500 Series] -- Posted Friday, October 21, 2011 by chb

Review: BAP Precision S-Series rugged handheld
Despite consumer smartphones increasingly being used in applications that were once the exclusive domain of purpose-designed ruggedized handheld terminals, there are still numerous deployments where environmental conditions, potential abuse, IT security requirements, etc., make a traditional ruggedized PDA-style mobile computer a better choice. The Windows Mobile-based BAP Precision S-Series, offered by Florida-based F4 Tech, is such a device. [See review of the BAP Precision S-Series] -- Posted Monday, October 17, 2011 by chb

Casio IT-300: rugged Windows Mobile handheld with capacitive multi-touch
Leave it to Casio Business Solutions to introduce one elegant, innovative industrial PDA after the other without ever letting anyone know. They did it again with the Casio IT-300, a unique new implementation of the industrial handheld, and the first we know of with capacitive multi-touch. The 7.6-ounce T300 runs Windows Embedded Handheld on a 624MHz Marvell PXA320 processor, has a 3.7-inch full-VGA screen, a CMOS 1D/2D imager, a 10-hour battery, IP54 sealing, and enough ruggedness to survive 5-foot drops. [See description and specs of the Casio IT-300] -- Posted Friday, October 7, 2011 by chb

Intermec named a 2011 Tech Innovator by UBM Channel's CRN
Intermec announced that it has been recognized for its innovation in the AIDC industry with a 2011 Tech Innovator award from CRN in the handhelds category for its ultra-rugged mobile computer, the Intermec CK71. CRN's 9th annual Tech Innovator listing celebrates vendors that have introduced new products or solutions to drive advances in the technology channel. [See press release] -- Posted Friday, October 7, 2011 by chb

Full review: Winmate 3.7" Rugged Handheld
There are still jobs where consumer-style smartphones, even sturdier ones, just won't do. That's why Taiwanese industrial computer manufacturer Winmate introduced their own industrial strength and size handheld that's simply called the Winmate 3.7" Rugged Handheld Device, also listed as the R03TACH. RuggedPCReview.com did a detailed analysis of the OMAP 3530/Windows CE 6.0 powered, IP67-sealed rugged, eminently practical device with a full VGA 3.7-inch touch screen and the ability to also run Android. [See full review of the Winmate 3.7" Rugged Handheld] -- Posted Monday, October 3, 2011 by chb

Socket Mobile ships 50,000th SoMo handheld
Socket Mobile announced it has shipped its 50,000th SoMo 650 handheld computer. Sales are being driven by the needs of the hospitality and healthcare market segments for a durable and lightweight device and continue to show growth. -- Posted Friday, September 30, 2011 by chb

Xata Turnpike now runs on Intermec handhelds
Xata Corporation, a leader in fleet optimization software, today announced that three additional Intermec devices (the CS40, the CN70, and the CN4) are now available for use with Xata Turnpike, an economical fleet management and optimization technology that delivers 360-degree, real-time information. [See Xata press release]
-- Posted Thursday, September 15, 2011 by chb

Krasdale Foods selects Janam rugged mobile computers
Janam Technologies announced that Krasdale Foods, one of the largest privately held grocery wholesalers in the New York Metro area, has selected Janam's XG100 rugged gun-shaped Windows CE/Mobile based mobile computer for its customer order placement and direct store delivery (DSD) systems. [See press release] -- Posted Thursday, September 15, 2011 by chb

BSQUARE acquires MPC Data Ltd.
BSQUARE announced the acquisition of MPC Data Ltd., a U.K. based provider of embedded software engineering services and products for OEMs, semiconductor companies and high performance application developers. The acquisition is part of BSQUARE's overall growth strategy and is designed to capitalize on the growing market for smart, connected devices by expanding both the breadth of services offered and the geographies served by BSQUARE. -- Posted Wednesday, September 14, 2011 by chb

Psion's Workabout Pro earns Apriva certification for secure government communications
Psion and Apriva, a leading provider of end-to-end wireless transaction and secure mobile communications solutions, announced that the Psion Workabout Pro 3 and Workabout Pro-g have earned Apriva's compatibility certification. Running on Windows Mobile 6.1, the Workabout Pro 3 and Workabout Pro-g have completed Apriva's integration and testing with its secure mobile communications products deployed to government and public agencies around the world. -- Posted Tuesday, September 13, 2011 by chb

Trimble Nomad 900 now IP68 rated
Trimble announced that its Nomad 900 handheld computer has received an IP68 rating (up from IP67), which is the highest rating for protection against dust and moisture. In addition, five new languages options have been added. IP68 means the device is completely dustproof and also protected against continuous immersion (but under conditions defined by the manufacturer). We're not surprised; we tested the almost identical Nomad 800 four years ago and took it scuba diving! [See RuggedPCReview video of Nomad on scuba] -- Posted Monday, September 12, 2011 by chb

Juniper Systems shipping IntuiTrace Irrigation Mapping Software
Juniper Systems announced the shipment of IntuiTrace Irrigation Mapping Software, created to produce as-built documentation for landscape installation and maintenance contractors. IntuiTrace was designed specifically for use on a rugged handheld computer and is compatible with the Juniper Systems Mesa Geo Rugged Notepad and Archer XF101. [See press release] -- Posted Thursday, August 18, 2011 by chb

GD-Itronix introduces rugged GD400 enterprise cross-over handheld/smartphone
General Dynamics Itronix introduced the GD400, a rugged enterprise handheld computer combines smartphone, computing, and data collection functionality. Powered by an 800MHz ARM Cortex 8 processor and running Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3, the GD400 offers excellent data capture capabilities with an expanded keypad, 1D/2D imager, various sensors, GPS, and camera with flash. The 3.7-inch sunlight-readable display has full VGA resolution, and despite compact size and low weight, the device is impressively rugged. [See description and specs of the GD-Itronix GD400] -- Posted Thursday, August 18, 2011 by chb

DAP Tech enhances rugged M2000 handheld with Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 and biometrics module
DAP Technologies' M2000, a pocket-sized rugged handheld that scans barcodes, is now available with Microsoft Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 (before it was Windows CE 5.0) and a new add-on rugged biometrics module with fingerprint and credential-reading capabilities (shown in the image). The biometrics module includes a 3-track mag stripe reader, a FIPS 201- certified fingerprint reader, and a Machine Reader Zone (MRZ) reader for passports and other travel documents. -- Posted Tuesday, August 16, 2011 by chb

Unitech unveils impressive PA690 rugged handheld
Unitech introduced the PA690 rugged mobile computer. Powered by a 806MHz Marvell PXA320 processor and running Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5, the PA690 has a large 3,8-inch touch screen with 800 x 480 pixel resolution. There's a 5-megapixel cameras that can also record VGA MPEG-4 video, a 1D barcode reader (or 2D imager) as well as RFID, GPS, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1, u-blox GPS, and 3.5G WWAN. The PA690 comes with two keyboard options, has a 5-foot drop spec, and IP65 sealing. [See description and specs of the Unitech PA690] -- Posted Monday, July 11, 2011 by chb

BSQUARE renews embedded OEM distribution agreement with Microsoft
BSQUARE, a leading enabler of smart, connected devices, today announced the Company has renewed its OEM distribution agreement with Microsoft for the 13th year. This continues the rights BSQUARE has to distribute the complete line of Microsoft Embedded Operating Systems within the US, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. BSQUARE also distributes the entire Microsoft Windows Embedded portfolio in the UK and Germany and Windows Mobile worldwide. -- Posted Friday, July 1, 2011 by chb

Added : Elecsys Radix FW960 ultra-rugged handheld
Elecsys Corporation introduced the Radix FW960 ultra-rugged handheld computer designed with the needs of today's front-line field worker in mind. The FW960 runs Windows CE 6.0 on a 520MHz Marvell PXA270 processor, has a 3.5-inch QVGA display, a variety of backlit alphanumeric keypad options, and a wealth of standard and optional communications and data collection features, including integrated laser scanners or imagers, thermal printers, RFID, 3G WWAN and even AMR (automated meter reading) radio. With a wide operating temperature range, 5-foot drop spec, IP67 sealing, and a nearly indestructible Xenoy housing, the Radix FW960 warrants consideration. [See description and specs of the Radix FW960 ultra-rugged handheld] -- Posted Wednesday, June 29, 2011 by chb

Review: Advantech TREK-510 with TREK-303L display
Fleet management and mobile resource management (MRM) are ever more important in the transportation industry. RuggedPCReview.com examined the Windows CE-based Advantech TREK-510 rugged in-vehicle computer/TREK-303 smart touch display combo, which offers a simple, cost-effective platform that can be used in numerous ways to integrate fleet operations more closely into overall corporate information systems, something that can have direct, and substantial, impact on the bottom-line. [See review of the Advantech TREK-510/303L] -- Posted Monday, June 27, 2011 by chb

DAP introduces small and rugged M1000 handheld
DAP Technologies introduced the M1000 handheld computer that is hardly larger than a standard mobile phone, but has voice capability and a barcode scanner or imager, making it suitable for inventory control, picking and packing and other advanced scanning applications. Powered by a 624MHz Marvell PXA310 processor and running either Windows CE 6.0 or Windows Mobile 6.5, the 8.2 ounce DAP M1000 has a 2.8-inch QVGA touch display, impressive ruggedness specs, a micdro-SD card slot, and can be configured with 3G WWAN and either a laser scanner or 1D/2D imager. [See description and specs of the DAP Technologies M1000] -- Posted Wednesday, June 15, 2011 by chb

Datalogic Mobile releases Skorpio video case study
Datalogic Mobile announced its latest video case study highlighting Hastings Entertainment. Hastings, a multimedia superstore with 147 stores in 20 states, rolled out nearly 750 Datalogic Skorpio Gun rugged mobile computers. See release and video. -- Posted Wednesday, May 25, 2011 by chb

Microsoft previews next release of Windows Phone
Microsoft previewed the next release of Windows Phone, codenamed "Mango" that will include over 500 new features. Emphasis is on easier connecting and sharing, smarter apps, and viewing the Web in a more localized way. The upgrade will be free to current Phone 7 users once the new rev becomes available this fall. The press release is a bit vague, but there's more information in the Windows Phone blog. -- Posted Tuesday, May 24, 2011 by chb

Unitech's PA600 joins AppSource
The Unitech PA600 handheld computer has been certified on AppSource, ScanSource's new online store that gives resellers access to mobile data collection applications that work on an assortment of mobile devices. AppSource gives Unitech’s resellers an easier way to implement software and hardware so that they can provide end-users with a succinct, out-of the-box solution. -- Posted Friday, May 13, 2011 by chb

Unitech adds a rugged smartphone/PDA: PA550
With smartphones taking over, there's an increasing need for industrial, ruggedized versions, and we've seen various interpretations of the theme over the past year. Unitech recently joined the fray with their new PA550 industrial PDA/phone all-in-one. Impressively powered by the 806MHz Marvell PXA320 and running Windows Mobile 6.5.3 Pro, the PA550 has a comprehensive QWERTY thumb-type keyboard, WiFi, Bluetooth, 3.5G wireless broadband, GPS, a laser scanner, and a 5-mepagpixel AF camera that can do MPEG4 full VGA video. [See description and specs of the Unitech PA550] -- Posted Thursday, May 12, 2011 by chb

Full review: Juniper Systems' unique Mesa rugged notepad
Juniper Systems of Logan, Utah, calls their new Mesa the "world's first rugged notepad," a device designed to offer the advantages of both a Tablet PC and a rugged handheld, but without the disadvantages of either category. We reviewed the Juniper Mesa in detail and found it to be a class-busting much larger handheld that brings Windows Mobile simplicity, instant-on, speed and battery life to a satisfyingly large 5.7-inch touch screen. Windows Mobile has never looked so good. [Read full review of the Juniper Systems Mesa rugged notepad] -- Posted Wednesday, May 4, 2011 by chb

Socket reports Q1 2011 financials
Socket Mobile reported revenue for Q1 2011 of US$4.0 million, compared to US$3.8 million Q1 2010. Net loss for the quarter, though, was still $928,000, compared to a net loss of about a million in Q1 2010. Socket CEO Kevin Mills said that "The increasing order pace for both our barcode scanners and our handheld computers reflects the improving economy, recent product introductions including our 2D Cordless scanner, and the phasing out by Hewlett-Packard of its 200 series handheld computers (iPaq 200 Series Enterprise Handhelds) in Japan." -- Posted Tuesday, April 26, 2011 by chb

Psion getting ready to ship the EP10 rugged PDA
Psion describes the new EP10 rugged PDA as having "all the functionality of high-end, full-size devices in a smaller form factor and at an affordable price." The 13-ounce EP10 runs Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3 on an 800MHz TI OMAP3 processor, has a large 3.7-inch VGA display, camera with flash, 2D imager, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1, 3.5G WWAN, an unusually full complement of sensors, good ruggedness specs and a full-shift battery. [See description and specs of the Psion EP10] -- Posted Wednesday, April 20, 2011 by chb

Magellan introduces a rugged handheld GPS for GIS professionals
Magellan, which is owned by MiTAC, the same company that also includes rugged PC manufacturer Getac, has introduced a rugged, lightweight and waterproof Windows Mobile 6.5-based handheld GPS computer geared towards GIS professionals. The Magellan eXplorist Pro 10 has a 240 x 400 pixel sunlight-viewable touch screen, runs 15 hours on a couple of AA batteries, and includes a SiRFSTAR III GPS module whose inherent 10-15 foot accuracy can be augmented to sub-meter performance via a supplemental external Bluetooth connected SBAS or dGPS/beacon receiver. Bluetooth can also be used to connect to an external laser rangefinder, and there's geotagging via internal 3.2mp camera, 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter. [See description and specs of the Magellan eXplorist Pro 10] -- Posted Thursday, April 14, 2011 by chb

Heavey RF backs Psion Omnii platform with initial 400-unit XT10 purchase
Psion announced that wireless mobile solutions provider Heavey RF has endorsed Psion's Open Source Mobility (OSM) strategy with an initial purchase of 400 Psion XT10 devices for its operations in the UK and Ireland. It is focusing on upgrading its existing customers to the new devices. [See Psion press release] -- Posted Tuesday, April 12, 2011 by chb

Handheld Group wins massive contract for rugged PDAs
The Handheld Group announced that it has won the contract to supply the Netherlands Railways with more than 10,000 rugged Nautiz handhelds, 6,000 of which will be the Nautiz eTicket Pro, containing an Arcontia RFID module. According to Handheld, this is the largest tender in the world for rugged PDAs in public transportation during the past year, and one of the largest in the world for rugged handhelds for all business verticals. The contract was won by HS Mobility, a consortium formed by Handheld Group with Dutch software partner Sigmax B.V. The Nautiz eTicket Pro is a specialized version of the Nautiz X5, which we summarized as "combination of powerful leading edge technology, a high-res display, a variety of advanced data capture and communications functions, and a tough but still compact housing make it an excellent multi-function computer and communicator for many commercial and industrial jobs" (see our review of the Nautiz X5). [Read Handheld Group press release] -- Posted Tuesday, April 12, 2011 by chb

Gartner forecast on smartphone OS market share
Since phones have become little computers and are in many ways replacing more conventional computers, what happens on phones is important to the computer industry, and especially mobile computing. While the definition of "smartphone" compared to a regular cellphone remains fluid, research and analyst firm Gartner says worldwide smartphone sales will be 468 million in 2011, up 58% from 2010. By 2015, Gartner sees 1.1 billion. Of major OS platforms, Gartner predicts leader Symbian vanishing (2010: 37.6%, 2015: 0.1%). Android's share rises from 38.5% this year to half of all smartphones, but then stays there. That's primarily because Microsoft will make a comeback, from about 5% now to almost 20% in 2015, largely due to Nokia switching to WIndows Phone 7. Apple's iOS has almost 20% in 2011, and will remain more or less steady through 2015 (17.2%). RIM, despite a migration to QNX, will decline from 16% in 2010 to just 11% in 2015. Our take: If these numbers are on the mark, then vertical market handhelds, which are now all Microsoft-based, may still have a migration path rather than a forced switch to Android. [See Gartner release on smartphone OS market] -- Posted Friday, April 8, 2011 by chb

Review: Trimble Ranger 3
The Trimble Ranger 3 is the latest version of a large, rugged, full-featured handheld computer designed from the ground up for use outdoors. It's a big handheld with a large 4.3-inch full-VGA display, a large 58-key keypad, a large battery that lasts multiple shifts, and enough ruggedness to reliably work anywhere. The Ranger 3 has a laser scanner, e-compass, accelerometer, 5mp camera with flash, advanced GPS, a fast processor, plenty of storage, BT, WiFi, and optional WWAN. RuggedPCReview.com put the Windows Mobile 6.5-based Ranger 3 through its paces and found much to like. [See full review of the Trimble Ranger 3] -- Posted Thursday, April 7, 2011 by chb

Full review: Handheld Group Nautiz X3
When you can't—or don't want to—carry multiple devices in the field you need a handheld that does it all. The Handheld Group's 9.5-ounce, Marvell PXA320-powered Nautiz X3 was designed to combine strong performance with extreme ruggedness and good value. The Nautiz X3, which starts at US$999, uses Windows Mobile 6.5, has a barcode scanner, GPS, camera, WWAN, and can also be used as a smartphone. [See full review of the Handheld Group Nautiz X3] -- Posted Monday, April 4, 2011 by chb

Review: ACC Systems AT870: scanning and RFID for less?
Field data collection requires handheld devices that can quickly, reliably and accurately capture barcodes, RFID tags, signatures, images, and manual data entry and also provide two-way voice and data communication. Such devices must be rugged, too, and they are not inexpensive. A.C.C. Systems of Bohemia, NY, claims their AT870 RFID handheld can do all that, and do it for less. We took a detailed look at the device and found much to like. [See full review of ACC Systems AT870 rugged RFID handheld] -- Posted Monday, March 28, 2011 by chb

DAP launches next-gen Atom-based rugged dual-OS tablet
DAP Technologies added the M9000 line to its growing lineup of rugged handhelds, vehicle-mounts and tablets. The M9010 tablet is a significant tech update to the M8910, using an Intel "Oak Trail" Atom processor to run either Windows CE 6.0 or Windows Embedded Standard 7. There's a bright 7-inch touch-display, support for the emerging BeeZig wireless standard, CAN bus, expandable I/O, and enough battery power for full shift operation. [See description and specs of the DAP M9010] -- Posted Tuesday, March 22, 2011 by chb

LXE introduces rugged Thor vehicle-mount computer
The LXE Thor is a compact Intel Atom-powered vehicle-mount computer with an 8-inch touch display as well as a QWERTY keyboard and function keys. Depending on the intended application, the Thor can be operated with either Windows Embedded Standard or with Windows CE 6.0. The devices carries IP66 sealing, a very wide operating temperature range, and strategic parts are field-replaceable. The Thor offers extensive communications capabilities, including optional Gobi 2000. [See description and specs of the LXE Thor vehicle-mount computer] -- Posted Tuesday, March 22, 2011 by chb

Eurotech releases lighter, more powerful wearable
Eurotech has released the WL1500 wearable computer as a lighter, more versatile and more powerful follow-up to their original WL1100. The new model runs Windows CE 6.0 on a Marvell PXA320 processor, has a numeric keypad, an optional integrated 1D/2D barcode scanner, and extensive communications capabilities. The QVGA display measures 3.5 inches diagonally, and the device has a microSD port as well as USB host/client ports. [See description and specs of the Eurotech Zypad WL1500] -- Posted Monday, March 21, 2011 by chb

Intermec acquires Enterprise Mobile
Intermec announced the acquisition of Massacusetts-based Enterprise Mobile, a provider of lifecycle services for mobile devices (iOS, Android, Blackberry, Windows Embedded/Phone) including device deployment, training, help desk, replacement and repair, refresh and recycling/end-of-life. Intermec expects the acquisition of Enterprise Mobile (which had partnered with both Intermec and Motorola) to help it become the leading provider of rugged mobile business solutions by extending its hardware, software and lifecycle services for enterprise mobile applications including the ability to extend these services to the non-rugged market. [See Intermec press release] -- Posted Wednesday, March 16, 2011 by chb

Getac releases rugged smartphone
Getac announced up a handy, GPS-enabled device that splits the difference between a smartphone and a rugged handheld computer. The new MH132, powered by Windows Mobile 6.5 and a Qualcomm MSM7227 chipset, has a 3.2-inch HVGA touch screen, A-GPS, a 3-megapixel camera, WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1, 3.5G mobile broadband, IP65 sealing, a wide operating temperature range, and a 5-foot drop spec. Initially sold in European markets, the MH132 starts at US$999 (€800, £699). [See full review and specs of the Getac MH132] -- Posted Monday, March 14, 2011 by chb

Microsoft releases Windows Embedded Compact 7
A couple of weeks ahead of the originally announced release date, on March 1, 2011, Microsoft announced the general availability of Windows Embedded Compact 7, the next generation of Microsoft's Windows Embedded CE platform. EC7 includes a special version of Microsoft Silverlight; the ability to customize the interface; multi-touch support; easier transfer of media and content between devices; symmetrical multi-processing; and updated mobile Office applications. See a history of Windows CE, a video of the people behind EC7, and the official Windows Embedded Compact 7 page. -- Posted Wednesday, March 2, 2011 by chb

Return on investment of rugged computing technology
Apart from operational benefits, what matters most when deciding on mobile computing technology is the return on investment. That is not always easy to quantify, and so Intermec commissioned Forrester Consulting to analyze the total economic impact of the deployment of its CN50 rugged handheld at Aras Cargo, a large letter and package delivery company based in Turkey. The report details Aras Cargo's significant results to date, including a three-year, risk-adjusted ROI of 185%. [Download Intermec CN50 ROI case study] -- Posted Tuesday, March 1, 2011 by chb

Trimble launches new GeoExplorer 6000 handhelds
Trimble introduced the Windows Mobile-based GeoExplorer 6000 series of high-accuracy Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) handheld computers. The series delivers dramatic improvements in difficult GNSS environments such as urban canyons and under tree canopy using Trimble Floodlight satellite shadow reduction technology. The TI OMAP 3503-based 6000 Series includes 256MB RAM, 2GB Flash, SDHC, a dual-frequency GPS and GLONASS receiver and antenna, 5-megapixel camera, 3.5G data, 4.2-inch full-VGA sunlight-readable display, 4-foot drop spec, IP65 sealing, and a field-swappable 28 watt-hour battery. It comes in two versions, the GeoExplorer 6000 series GeoXH with real time decimeter (4 inch) accuracy, and the GeoXT with 75 cm (30 inch) accuracy in real time and 50 cm (20 inch) accuracy after postprocessing. The previous GeoExplorer continues as the GeoExplorer 3000 Series.
-- Posted Friday, February 18, 2011 by chb

Juniper Mesa Geo 3G AT&T network-ready
Juniper Systems announced that their innovative Mesa Geo 3G Rugged Notepad has received network-ready approval from AT&T Wireless and can operate on America’s largest expanded digital UMTS/HSDPA 3G network. This makes the Mesa Geo 3G Juniper Systems' first fully rugged device supported on AT&T’s high-speed nationwide network. Juniper Mesa Rugged Notepad] -- Posted Tuesday, February 15, 2011 by chb

LXE introduces the powerful LXE Tecton rugged handheld
LXE announced the Tecton rugged handheld, targetted at warehouse and supply chain applications. The Tecton replaces the successful LXE MX7. While the exterior looks pretty much the same, LXE provided very substantial performance and software upgrades, and also includes the latest laser scanner or 1D/2D imaging technology. Available with either Windows Mobile 6.5 or Windows CE 6.0, the Tecton carries IP65 sealing, can handle up to 5-foot drops and has a 14 to 122F operating temperature range. [See description and specs of the LXE Tecton] -- Posted Tuesday, February 8, 2011 by chb