We had a chance to spend a few weeks with a production second gen Handheld Algiz XRW. The ultra-rugged 3.3-pound has a 1366 x 768 pixel 10.1-inch touchscreen, carries IP65 sealing, and feels quire indestructible. The switch to a SATA SSD and a faster Intel Atom processor (the dual-core N2600) resulted in an overall 2.5X performance boost in our benchmark testing. [See Handheld Algiz XRW]

Mirror, mirror on the wall, which is the fastest of them all?
Which is the fastest we ever tested in the RuggedPCReview benchmark lab? That would be the AIMB-501 industrial motherboard by Advantech. With an Intel Core i5-3550S (Ivy Bridge), the microATX board scored a blazing 1,782 PassMark and 228,751 CrystalMark. It's, of course, not a mobile device, but a board for embedded systems (which may well end up in the field somewhere). [See reviews, analysis and description of the Advantech AIMB-501] -- Posted Friday, May 24, 2013 by chb

Duke University researchers use MobileDemand xTablet T7200 rugged tablet computers at Mount Everest base camp
When a Duke University team of researchers set up shop at the Mount Everest base camp at 17,650 feet to study the mystery of human survival in low oxygen environments, they entrusted their data to MobileDemand xTablet T7200 rugged tablet PCs. Under very trying circumstances, the tablets worked just as expected. [See Case Study: Computers in High Altitude Expeditions] -- Posted Thursday, May 23, 2013 by chb

3M aims to bring more color to LCDs
3M announced it is in the final stages of scale-up for its new 3M Quantum Dot Enhancement Film (QDEF). The new film allows up to 50% more color than current levels in LCDs. 3M says that current LCDs typically are limited to displaying 35% or less of the visible color spectrum, and that the new film will represent a drop-in solution that delivers clearly noticeable more saturated colors. [See 3M press release] -- Posted Tuesday, May 21, 2013 by chb

2012 microprocessor $-volume marketshare
According to semiconductor market research firm IC Insights, 2012 marked the first year since the 1990s where Advanced Micro Devices hasn't ranked second behind Intel in US$ volume of microprocessor sales. Intel led with a dollar amount marketshare of 65.3%, ahead of Qualcomm (9.4%), Samsung (8.2%) and AMD (6.4%). Freescale, Nvidia, TI ST-Ericsson, Broadcomm and MediaTek rounded out the top-10. Needless to say, the rankings would be different in unit sales. [See IC Insights release on microprocessor sales] -- Posted Tuesday, May 21, 2013 by chb

Juniper Systems celebrates its 20th anniversary
Juniper Systems, located in Logan, Utah, is celebrating its 20th year in business! Ron Campbell launched the company back in 1993, and Ron's son, Rob Campbell, has served as president of Juniper Systems since 2001. Campbell says, "From day one, my dad strove to build a company that delivered exceptional products and great customer service, while providing a great work environment for its employees." Juniper prides itself in designing and building some of the toughest rugged handhelds available today, each carrying an IP67 rating (more, really; we tested them underwater) and undergoing extensive MIL-STD testing. Congratulations, Juniper Systems! -- Posted Tuesday, May 21, 2013 by chb

For restaurants and retail: the new DT Research DT315CT
At the 2013 National Restaurant Association Show at Chicago's McCormick Place (May 18-21, 2013), (DT Research announced the DT315CT, an Intel Atom N2800-powered 9.7-inch Windows 7 tablet with capacitive touch, magnetic stripe reader to read payment, ID, and loyalty program cards, a 2D barcode scanner to improve inventory management, and a 5M camera to verify promotions and set up. [See description, analysis and specs of the DT Research Dt315CT] -- Posted Tuesday, May 21, 2013 by chb

Samwell Ruggedbook: Rugged tablet computer use in utility meter systems remote control
While manual utility (electricity, gas, water, heat) meter reading still exists, it is labor-intensive, error-prone, and not well suited to handle the increasing demand for complex and unique purpose metering including tiered and special use tariffs, and extended monitoring. In a new feature Taiwanese Samwell (which will be at Computex Taipei, June 4-8, 2013: TWTC Nangang Upper Level L1302) discusses the increasing use of rugged tablet computers such as their Ruggedbook SR820 to automatically read and manage smart meters, benefitting both utilities and customers via more information, higher accuracy, and better service. [Read Computer use in utility meter systems remote control] -- Posted Tuesday, May 21, 2013 by chb

Digitimes: Getac to aim for 30% rugged computing marked share
Now this is from Digitimes, and not from Getac directly: Digitimes reports that Getac aims to reach a global market share of 30% in three to five years with China and North America to be the major target markets. Digitimes also quotes Getac as saying that the market for ruggedized notebooks and tablets is still growing, with especially strong growth in China. Digitimes also reported that Getac had 1Q2013 sales of US$123 million and made a small profit. -- Posted Monday, May 20, 2013 by chb

DT Research announces 1-pound point-of-sale/service tablet
DT Research announced the DT307SC, a 7-inch tablet weighing only a bit over a pound, and available with magnetic stripe reader, 2D barcode scanner, RFID, and rear-facing camera with LED flash. Running Windows CE or Windows Mobile, the ARM-powered DT307 is easily integrated with third-party applications. As with most products from DT Research, the DT307SC includes the comprehensive remote management through the server-based WebDT Device Manager software. [See description, analysis and specs of the DT Research DT307] -- Posted Sunday, May 19, 2013 by chb

How Motorola Solutions made two mobile computers condensation- and freezer-proof
Good phone conversation today with the PR folks from Motorola Solutions. The occasion was the introduction of two interesting new products, the Omni XT15f industrial handheld, and the Psion VH10f vehicle-mount computer. The key here is the "f" in both of the names. It stands for "freezer" and that's what the two new devices are all about. Big deal? [... read more] -- Posted Friday, May 17, 2013 by chb

Vocollect A700 combines voice and handsfree scanning
Vocollect, a business unit of Intermec, unveiled its new Talkman A700 solution that introduces a voice industry first -- integrated voice and scanning in one wearable solution. It consists of the rugged wearable Talkman A730 with an integrated Intermec EA30 imager, a Vocollect headset, and Vocollect voice software for workers that occasionally require a scanner for tasks such as order induction or serial and lot number capture. [See press release and Vocollect A700 page] -- Posted Thursday, May 16, 2013 by chb

Pansonic upgrades Toughbook H2 rugged tablet
Panasonic announced it has updated the Toughbook H2 tablet with an Intel 3rd generation Core i5-3427U processor, boosted the standard hard disk from 320 to 500GB, improved estimated battery life from 6.5 to 7 hours, and enhanced connectivity with using an Intel Advanced-N 6235 module (802.11a/b/g/n and Class 1 Bluetooth 4.0 + EDR) and offering either 3G Gobi with GPS or 4G LTE mobile broadband. -- Posted Thursday, May 16, 2013 by chb

Dell drops price of Windows RT tablet
Dell, one of the few companies offering a Windows RT-based tablet, dropped the price of its 32GB XPS 10 tablet from US$449 to just US$299. A version with 64GB, dock, and 4G LTE dropped from US$799 to just US$499. That's not a good sign for Windows RT, but good news for anyone seeking a true bargain (we liked our Windows RT tablet; see Windows RT: How Suitable is it for Vertical Markets? Part 1 and Part 2). [Dell XPS 10 Tablet webpage] -- Posted Wednesday, May 15, 2013 by chb

DT Research introduces rugged 9.7-inch Windows tablet
DT Research introduced the rugged Windows 7-based DT398 tablet as a tougher, more performance-oriented complement to their roster of point-of-sale tablets. The DT398, which has a 9.7-inch XGA resistive touch display and uses either an Intel Celeron or Core i7 processor, was specifically built to meet the requirements of government and military deployments, though the company also targets construction, utilities, inspections and public safety. [See description, analysis and specs of the DT Research DT398] -- Posted Wednesday, May 15, 2013 by chb

Motorola introduces freezer-rated Psion Omnii XT15f
Motorola Solutions introduced the Omnii XT15f, a special "freezer and condensation-rated" version of the Psion Omnii XT15 rugged handheld. Since the temperature extremes and condensation issues when working in and around freezers can affect displays, touch screens, keypads, battery life and longevity, the XT15f includes a variety of frost-free and heating technologies that address those issues. [See description, analysis and specs of the Motorola Solutions Psion Omnii XT15f] -- Posted Wednesday, May 15, 2013 by chb

Motorola introduces freezer-rated Psion VH10/VH10f
Motorola Solutions introduced the Psion VH10 and VH10f vehicle computers. The VH10 platform is specially suited for forklifts and similar, offering a bright 8-inch 800 x 480 pixel WVGA touchscreen as well as plenty of function keys and a full QWERTY keyboard. Windows CE 6.0 offers compatibility with numerous apps and software tools, and the device, which uses vehicle power but can also be ordered with a battery backup, is built for use in the harshest environments. The VH10f version includes internal and external heaters to guard against damage from moving in and out of freezer environments, as well as eliminate external condensation. [See description, analysis and specs of the Motorola Solutions Psion VH10/VH10f] -- Posted Wednesday, May 15, 2013 by chb

Blog: Handheld -- Pursuit of a vision
I had a chance yesterday to meet over dinner with Sofia Löfblad, Marketing Director at Handheld Group AB, and Amy Urban who is the Director of Marketing at Handheld US. I hadn't seen them since I presented at the Handheld Business Partner Conference in Stockholm three years ago, and it was a pleasure catching up in person... [read more] -- Posted Tuesday, May 14, 2013 by chb

New Intermec Cedar Rapids facility to open May 15
The Gazette reported that Intermec's new US$12.5 million, 81,000 sqft downtown Cedar Rapids facility with leading-edge electrical, mechanical, software and RF test labs will open May 15. The Gazette reported that Intermec, which has 2,300 employees worldwide, has 219 staff at the Cedar Rapids site, most in R&D and design, and with an average tenure of 17 years. [See Gazette article on Intermec facility] -- Posted Tuesday, May 14, 2013 by chb

Windows 8.1 preview to become available June 26
At the JP Morgan Technology, Media & Telecom Conference in Boston, a Microsoft representative told the audience that the update previously referred to as "Windows Blue" will be called Windows 8.1 and become available as a free update to Windows 8 for consumers through the Windows Store. In a blog post, Microsoft said a public preview of Windows 8.1 will be available starting June 26, timed with the Build developer conference in San Francisco. The preview will be available for Windows 8 and Windows RT. -- Posted Tuesday, May 14, 2013 by chb

6,500 Datalogic Elf mobile computers improve store replenishment efficiency at The Co-operative Food
Datalogic announced that The Co-operative Food, one of the largest food retailers in the United Kingdom, deployed 6,500 Datalogic's Elf Mobile Computer (see our analysis of the Elf) for speeding up daily operations, thereby increasing productivity of its SMART (Store Merchandising and Replenishment Transformation) system in more than 2,800 stores in the UK. [See Datalogic press release] -- Posted Wednesday, May 8, 2013 by chb

Added: Lenovo ThinkPad X230t
Yes, Virginia, it used to be IBM that made the ThinkPads before they sold the business to Lenovo, and the first ThinkPads some 20 years ago were just that, pads, and not notebooks. It was only when pen computing failed to catch on that ThinkPads became laptops. But IBM and then Lenovo never really gave up on tablets, and the current Lenovo ThinkPad X230t is the latest in a long line of convertible laptops. It looks big and heavy now compared to Lenovo's sleek IdeaPads, but it has plenty of power, is very reasonably priced, and exudes a timeless elegance. [See description, analysis and specs of the Lenovo ThinkPad X230t] -- Posted Monday, May 6, 2013 by chb

Added: Fujitsu Stylistic Q572
Fujitsu has been a pen computing and tablet pioneer for over 20 years, and that know-how shows in their Stylistic Q572 business-class tablet. The 10.1-inch WXGA (1366 x 768 pixel) IPS anti-glare display is bright (400 nits) and uses the N-trig DuoSense capacitive multi-touch and active pen combo. There are dual cameras (720p front, 1080p and 5mp stills rear), SD and Smart Card slots, and solid state storage up to 256GB. The Q572 is powered by an AMD Z-60 APU that includes AMD RADEON HD 6350 graphics, and runs either Windows 7 or Windows 8. [See description, analysis and specs of the Fujitsu Stylistic Q572] -- Posted Monday, May 6, 2013 by chb

New: Rugged Tablet comparison tool
In order to let interested parties and prospective customers more easily learn about, and compare, rugged tablets, RuggedPCReview.com has added a Rugged Tablet Comparison Tool. The tool allows you to compare the full specs of up to three rugged tablets side by side, and instantly link to our assessment and analysis of the product. About 50 rugged tablets have been included so far, and we're still in the process of adding more products. [Check out the Rugged Tablet Comparison Tool]

-- Posted Monday, May 6, 2013 by chb

Juniper Systems launches Get Rugged blog
Juniper Systems has revealed its new company blog, named Get Rugged. As the company itself, the Get Rugged blog concentrates on industries that collect data in rugged environments. Juniper's goal with the blog is to provide an entertaining, informative space for those in the data collection sphere who wish to learn more about their field and exchange ideas. Blog authors include Juniper Systems employees from across various departments, promising to offer a wide range of interesting topics and perspectives. "It is important to us for our customers to know that as individuals we are passionate about rugged data collection, and that we aren’t just a faceless business entity," said Kirk Earl, Marketing Communications Manager. [See Juniper press release and Get Rugged blog] -- Posted Thursday, May 2, 2013 by chb

Added: DLI 7200 4.3-inch Windows/Android POS PDA
Point-of-sale applications usually reside on fixed station terminals. What if you could use those same Windows POS apps on a handy rugged PDA? Impossible? Not with the DLI 7200, an Intel Atom Z670-powered sturdy PDA that runs full Windows 7 (or Win 7 Embedded or POSReady 7) on a 4.3-inch 480 x 800 pixel capacitive touchscreen and can even be equipped with a RFID/magnetic stripe reader module. But there's more: the DLI 7200 can also run Android. [See description, analysis and specs of the DLI 7200] -- Posted Wednesday, May 1, 2013 by chb

World Vision boosts global aid distribution efforts with Intermec CN50 rugged mobile computers
Intermec announced that World Vision, a global Christian humanitarian organization that provides humanitarian aid to 12-15 million people each year through relief assistance, has deployed the Intermec CN50 handheld mobile computers for use in aid distribution efforts around the globe. Paired with World Vision's "Last Mile Mobile Solutions" software system, the CN50 has helped World Vision achieve time savings of up to 90% in in-field operations. Other benefits include faster verification, quicker processing time, and reduced wait time for beneficiaries. [See video case study] -- Posted Wednesday, May 1, 2013 by chb

Do you remember what happened in rugged computing 5 years ago?
Lots happened in May of 2008: Italian Finmeccanica acquired DRS Technologies, venerable Computerworld reviewed three rugged notebooks, Toshiba announced LED-backlit LCD panels, DisplaySearch predicted touch screens would really take off, SDG announced a Linux-based Trimble Nomad handheld, VDC predicted solid growth for handheld scanners, Handheld US introduced the M3 Mobile PDA, the last before they started their own Nautiz brand, MobileDemand published the first of their humorous ruggedness videos (and celebrated their 5th anniversary), etc. Take a trip down memory lane: RuggedPCReview news May 2008 -- Posted Wednesday, May 1, 2013 by chb

Getac announces X500 rugged mobile server notebook
There are times when a powerful server is needed in the field, but rackmounts or desktops are not an option. Enter the new Getac X500 rugged mobile server. It is based on Getac's ultra-rugged X500 notebook, uses a quad core Intel i7-820QM processor and 16GB of RAM, adds a RAID expansion chassis, complete with RAID level 0 (splits data evenly across two or more disks), 1 (exact copy of data on two disks) and 5 (data distributed across all disks.) controller board and up to five shock-protected storage drives that can be easily accessed or swapped through one of two quick access doors. The X500 Server also has NVIDIA GeForce GT330M discrete graphics to benefit its large 15.6 inch 800 NITs QuadraClear sunlight-readable display. [View Getac press release, X500 Server product page, and X500 server brochure] -- Posted Tuesday, April 30, 2013 by chb

InTouch newsletter #118
The latest InTouch newsletter by the TouchStar Group arrived and it's as informative as ever. This time readers learn, among other news, how TouchStar fleet automation software and their innovative TruckPC SLED portable mounting system with a tablet and printer helped Great Northern Midstream with their work in the North Dakota oilfields. [See InTouch newsletter #118] -- Posted Monday, April 29, 2013 by chb

F4Tech announces Platinum Sponsorship at May Esri Forestry GIS Conference
F4Tech announced it has been selected as a platinum sponsor for the Esri Forestry GIS Conference to be held May 14-16 in Redlands, CA. The conference, hosted by the Esri Forestry Group, attracts professionals from all over the world. The annual event is designed to teach forest managers and decision makers, as well as GIS users and specialists how to improve forestry operations and business practices. -- Posted Monday, April 29, 2013 by chb

iSiS introduces rugged Zone 2 client
Hazardous area computing specialist iSiS-Ex introduced the Class I Div.2/Class 1 Zone 2-certified iSiS1302 Zone 2 thin client with a super high-bright 19”, 1,000 NIT multi-touch glove-friendly touchscreen. The Intel Atom-powered iSiS1302 is fully operational within a -40 to +140F temperature range, is IP66-sealed, and meets a variety of shock and vibration specifications. Class I Div.2/Class 1 Zone 2 means operation in areas where ignitable concentrations of flammable gases, vapors, or liquids are present within the atmosphere under abnormal operating conditions. [See iSiS1302 page and YouTube video] -- Posted Monday, April 29, 2013 by chb

MobileDemand xTablet T7200 rugged Tablet PC certified with A-B Mobility software
MobileDemand announced that their xTablet T7200 rugged tablet PC is now certified to be used with the A-B Mobility full-screen (legacy) Presell and Driver Sell software. The xTablet T7200 (see our full review) is the fifth generation of MobileDemand's durable tablets to be approved to assist Anheuser-Busch sales representatives throughout the United States. "MobileDemand was founded back in 2003 with the very first customer being Anheuser-Busch," says MobileDemand VP of Sales and Marketing, Bob Zink. "We're thrilled that xTablet T7200 is now certified to run its AB Mobility software." [See MobileDemand press release] -- Posted Monday, April 29, 2013 by chb

Toshiba introduces 1/4-inch 8mp/1080p autofocus CMOS image sensor with HDR functionality
As rugged device customers are asking for improved imaging capabilities in their devices, Toshiba announced their latest 8-megapixel 1/4-inch CMOS image sensor for mobile devices. The back-illuminated T4K05 sensor has an HDR (high dynamic range) function, an autofocus driver, an operating temperature range of -4 to 140F, and on top of 8mp stills, it also supports 1080p/30 HD video. [See specs] -- Posted Friday, April 26, 2013 by chb

Socket Mobile reports profitable 1Q2013
Socket Mobile, a longtime provider of mobile productivity solutions, announced 1Q2013 revenues of US$4.3 million, up 8% from 1Q2012. 1Q2013 net income was US75k, versus a net loss of US$872k 1Q2012. CEO Kevin Mills said that their SoMo 655 family of handheld computers and accessories grew 28% sequentially over the 4Q2012, and that the SoMo 655 (see our analysis of the SoMo 655) extends the availability of their classic PDA for at least five years (Microsoft announced continued support until 2020 for the Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 OS running on the SoMo 655). [See Socket Mobile press release] -- Posted Friday, April 26, 2013 by chb

1Q13: 1st time majority of all mobile phones sold were smartphones
According to IDC, the worldwide mobile phone market grew 4% year over year in Q1 of 2013. Vendors shipped 418.6 million mobile phones in 1Q13 compared to 402.4 million units in 1Q12 and 483.2 million in 4Q12. In the worldwide smartphone market, vendors shipped 216.2 million units in 1Q13, which marked the first time more than half (51.6%) the total phone shipments in a quarter were smartphones. The smartphone market grew 41.6% compared to the 152.7 million units shipped in 1Q12, but 5.1% lower than the 227.8 million units shipped in 4Q12. Samsung held the smartphone top spot with 32.7%, before Apple with 17.3%, with Samsung greatly extending its smartphone lead. -- Posted Friday, April 26, 2013 by chb

Intermec announced partner award winners
Intermec announced the partner award winners from its North American Intermec Partner Summit event in Dallas, recognizing leading enterprises for their success in helping customers deliver results using Intermec's diverse portfolio of solutions. [See Intermec press release with winners] -- Posted Wednesday, April 24, 2013 by chb

Itronix RIP
Last week, as I came to a stop at a red light, a police car stopped in the lane next to me. What immediately caught my eye was an expertly mounted rugged notebook computer, angled towards the driver. It was a GD-Itronix rugged notebook, probably a GD6000 or GD8200, with an elegant matte-silver powder-coated insert on top of the magnesium alloy computer case that prominently featured the "General Dynamics" brand name. The officer perused the screen, then looked up, and briefly our eyes met. He had no idea how well I knew that computer in his car, and the one that came before it, and the one before that. [read more...] -- Posted Wednesday, April 24, 2013 by chb

Motorola Solutions reports flat Q1 2013 sales with 7% earnings decrease over Q1 2012
Motorola Solutions announced first-quarter 2013 results. Q1 sales were $1.973 billion, up 1% from Q1 2012 sales of US$1.956 billion, mostly thanks to strong Government segment sales. Q1 earnings were US$216 million, down 7% from $216 million for the quarter a year ago. Q1 2013 sales were a bit under 1/3 from enterprise sales and a bit over 2/3 from government sales. Motorola Solutions also reported it repurchased another $357 million of its shares in the quarter (versus US$1.4 billion repurchase in Q1 2012). [See Motorola Solutions press release] -- Posted Wednesday, April 24, 2013 by chb

GammaTech Durabook SA14: affordable semi-rugged high-performance laptop with numerous customization options
Where do you go if you want a notebook with the performance and technology of the latest consumer laptops, but one that's also tough and rugged while still being affordable? The new Durabook SA14 from Gammatech is such a machine. There are compromises in ruggedness (it's only semi-rugged), but you do get your choice of Intel 3rd-gen Core processors, lots of connectivity, a wide-format 14-inch 1366 x 768 pixel display with high-bright and touch options, and even an optional Blu-ray optical drive. [See description, analysis and specs of the Durabook SA14] -- Posted Wednesday, April 24, 2013 by chb

Smith Micro now providing wireless connection management software for Getac rugged tablets and laptops
Smith Micro Software announced that Getac is now offering the QuickLink Mobility connection management solution to enable simple, secure, and reliable wireless network access on select Getac devices, including the B300, S400, V100, V200 and Z710 models. QuickLink Mobility provides a) carrier-agnostic secure connection management, b) seamless, persistent connections across networks, including 3G, 4G and WiFi, c) single-sign-on (SSO) and connect-before-login (CBL) to simplify access and reduce risk, and d) connection policy control for standards compliance.
-- Posted Tuesday, April 23, 2013 by chb

Added: QSI QTERM-G58 rugged HMI terminal
Also added: the QTERM-G58 human-machine interface terminal from QSI, which is the Salt Lake City-based US subsidiary of Swedish Beijer Electronics. The G58 is an ultra-rugged, highly customizable handheld terminal with such rare features as a sealed 12-pin multi-potocol connector to support EIA232/422/485 and USB, DC or battery operation, and either Windows Embedded CE 6.0 or QSI's own Qlarity object-based graphic programming language and environment. [See description, specs and analysis of the QSI QTERM-G58] -- Posted Monday, April 22, 2013 by chb

Added: Catchwell CW31 industrial PDA
Catchwell is a Korean manufacturer of rugged handheld computers and a top supplier of the Korean postal service. They make a number of very compact Windows CE/Windows Mobile devices such as the CW31 in the popular class of 3.5-inch keyboard PDAs. Powered by the 806MHz Marvell PXA320, the CW31 is available with your choice of 38- or 53-key keypad, 1D laser or 2D imager, and QVGA or full VGA display. It carries IP65 sealing and can handle 6-foot drops, yet weighs just 12.8 ounces. [See description, specs and analysis of the Catchwell CW31] -- Posted Monday, April 22, 2013 by chb

Added: Unitech PA968II
The rugged multi-function PA968II is also a follow-up to a successful product, this one to Unitech's old PA968. The second gen model runs Windows Mobile 6.5.3 on the powerful 806MHz Marvell PXA320 processor. Unitech claims the aluminum-magnesium alloy of the PA968II is all new, though it looks very much like the predecessor. Most importantly, perhaps, is the switch from QVGA to full 480 x 640 pixel VGA resolution. The IP65-sealed device can be ordered with a either a 1D laser scanner or a 1D/2D imager. There is a 2MP color camera, SiRFstar GPS, Bluetooth V2.1, Cisco-certified 801.11b/g WiFi, and 5-band 3.5G mobile broadband, all depending on customer and application requirements. [See description, analysis and specs of the Unitech PA968II] -- Posted Thursday, April 18, 2013 by chb

Added: Datalogic Skorpio X3
The Skorpio X3 is Datalogic's follow-up to its original Skorpio handheld. Like its predecessor, the X3 model is a compact, handheld computer designed to make data collection and assisted sale procedures in retail in-store environments as easy and comfortable as possible. There's now a faster processor, a slightly larger screen, and you get to choose from three different keypads. [See description, analysis and specs of the Datalogic Skorpio X3] -- Posted Thursday, April 18, 2013 by chb

Federal Government organization achieves cleaner and faster clinical study data using Tablet PCs from TabletKiosk
Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program (IDCRP), a worldwide network of Department of Defense (DoD) clinical and research centers that have collaborated to investigate infectious diseases challenges facing the military, revealed that it is using Sahara Slate PC i500 Tablet PCs (see our review) from TabletKiosk to conduct a completely paperless clinical study resulting in 50% time savings and 100x fewer queries. [Request IDCRP case study]
-- Posted Tuesday, April 16, 2013 by chb

Added: Honeywell Dolphin 70e Black
With hundreds of millions of sleek, elegant, high-tech smartphones out there, Honeywell saw great potential for a more durable more rugged version of those devices, one that in Honeywell's words "marries the size, style and usability of a consumer device with the reliability and longevity of a traditional rugged handheld." The result is the Dolphin 70e Black, a stylish 7-ounce multi-talented ruggedized enterprise digital assistant that runs Android or Windows Mobile. [See description, specs and analysis of the Honeywell Dolphin 70e] -- Posted Tuesday, April 16, 2013 by chb

Added: Janam XT85
Janam's XT85 is a compact, rugged keyboard PDA that merges legacy (design, display, IR, OS) and state-of-the-art (dual-band WiFi, 3G/4G WWAN, microSD, scanners) technology to appeal to enterprise deployments with higher operational and performance demands than older industrial handhelds can deliver, and where ruggedness requirements rule out consumer smartphones. [See description, specs and analysis of the Janam XT85] -- Posted Tuesday, April 16, 2013 by chb

JLT adds rugged mobile broadband modem
JLT Mobile Computers has come up with an interesting product: their rugged jLink mobile broadband modem offers reliable 3G (UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA) and GPS connectivity in tough environments (outdoor logistics, harbors, forklifts, transportation) for dockable computers. This means that the computer can be removed from the vehicle or dock without affecting the dock's permanent jLink mobile broadband connection with its external antennas. [See JLT jLink spec sheet] -- Posted Tuesday, April 16, 2013 by chb

Advantech launches TREK-668 integrated fleet management and in-vehicle surveiilance Box PC
Advantech introduced the TREK-668, its latest integrated fleet management and in-vehicle surveillance system. The Intel Atom N2600-based TREK-668 Box PC supports GPS tracking and positioning, as well as dead-reckoning, which allows a truck to be traced even if the driver is in a tunnel. All common in-vehicle computer interfaces are available including CAN bus, RS232, RS485, J1708 and the new J1939 protocol which allows TREK-668 to interface easily with a vehicle's systems for real-time diagnostics and operational information. Designed to handle an automotive grade working temperature range (-22F to 140F), the TREK-668 records video and tracking data, and offers integrated WLAN and WWAN CDMA/GPRS/HSPA+ for control center communication. [See Advantech TREK-668] -- Posted Tuesday, April 16, 2013 by chb

Getac Z710 rugged tablet now with Android 4.1
Getac announced its Z710 Android-powered rugged tablet will now incorporate the Android 4.1 operating system. Specifically designed to work with dual-core processors such as the Z710's TI OMAP 4430, the rugged Getac tablet will now provide improved speed and responsiveness for field personnel. "The response to our Z710 rugged tablet has been amazing," says Jim Rimay, president of Getac. "Adding Android 4.1 OS allows us to unlock the second processor core -- improving the performance in addition to enhancing security and the user interface, and adding access to Google Play for our mobile customers." [See Getac press release, our full review of the Z710, and Getac's Z710 page] -- Posted Tuesday, April 16, 2013 by chb

Added: Rugged Handheld Comparison Tool
RuggedPCReview.com has added a comprehensive rugged handheld computer comparison tool. The new utility allows site visitor to select via pull-down menus from about 100 leading rugged handhelds and compare complete technical specs of up to three devices side-by-side. Each tech spec includes an image of the device and a link to RuggedPCReview's description and analysis, as well as links to vendor pages. We're busy adding more rugged handhelds to the new comparison tool, and will also launch comparison tools for rugged tables, panels, and notebooks. [See the RuggedPCReview.com Handheld Comparison Tool] -- Posted Monday, April 15, 2013 by chb

Xplore and Novatek partner to provide rugged tablet solution for the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industry
Xplore Technologies and Novatek International announced the Novatek EM-Mobile that combines a rugged tablet equipped with software designed specifically to provide real-time electronic data to increase efficiency in the environmental monitoring and manufacturing processes for the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industry. Running on an Xplore iX104C5 DMCR (Dual-Mode Clean Room) rugged tablet, the Novatek EM-Mobile solution can be utilized in the sensitive environment of clean rooms without impact, while providing the real-time information needed to manage the pharmaceutical manufacturing process. [see Xplore news]
-- Posted Monday, April 15, 2013 by chb

Crucial releases affordable 2.5-inch M500 SSD with up to 960GB capacity
In RuggedPCReview benchmark testing, we've seen again and again that replacing rotating media with solid state disks can improve overall performance by a significant margin. And since SSDs are more robust, there's increased resistance to drop and vibration damage to boot. So Crucial's announcement of their new M500 SSD is timely. The 2.5-inch form factor M500 comes in capacities from 120GB (US$129.99) to 960GB (US$599.99). [See Crucial press release and Crucial M500 SSD page] -- Posted Wednesday, April 10, 2013 by chb

Juniper Systems rugged handhelds now with RFID options
Juniper Systems announced that it will now be offering RFID options for its existing rugged handheld computers, thanks to its recent business partnership with IDBLUE. This partnership will allow Juniper Systems to provide the IDBLUE RFID reader -- available in both HF and UHF versions and has a pending Class I, Division 2 certification for hazardous locations -- as part of a bundled package, or as a separate product which can be used with any Bluetooth-equipped Juniper Systems rugged handheld computer. [See Juniper press release] -- Posted Wednesday, April 10, 2013 by chb

The latest DAP Talk newsletter
DAP Technologies issued its April 2013 newsletter, introduced by DAP General Manager David Molesworth. The newsletter includes a product spotlight on DAP's new 7-inch M7000 rugged tablet (see our analysis of the M7000) as well as an introduction to their M4305 rugged 4.3-inch Android handheld. It also covers DAP's exhibit at the January ProMat show in Chicago and includes partner testimonials. [See DAP newsletter] -- Posted Wednesday, April 10, 2013 by chb

Juniper Systems new channel program aims to give business partners an edge
Juniper Systems announced a new Channel Program, available to new and existing business partners, designed to strengthen its business relationships and help its partners realize greater success. The Channel Program, which will offer Gold and Silver status, is aimed at benefiting partners by increasing communication and transparency, improving understanding of opportunities, and generating more business via benefits such as deal registration, greater engagement with Juniper Systems' sales and marketing teams, access to business development resources, special pricing on demo products, and lead sharing. [See press release] -- Posted Tuesday, April 9, 2013 by chb

CipherLab CP60 rugged handheld now IP67 sealed
CipherLab, a Taiwanese manufacturer of automatic ID and data capture/collection products and systems with a US facility in Plano, Texas, announced that environmental sealing of its CP60 rugged mobile computer (see our analysis of the CP60) has been increased from IP65 to IP67, meaning the device is now waterproof to immersions up to one meter (3.3 feet). [See press release] -- Posted Tuesday, April 9, 2013 by chb

Datalogic Lynx video
Datalogic published another one of their videos highlighting their rugged handhelds. This latest one shows the small and light Lynx data capture and communications PDA (see our analysis of the Lynx) [See Datalogic Lynx video on YouTube] -- Posted Monday, April 8, 2013 by chb

Parvuz white paper on engineering military electronics for size, weight and power demands
Eurotech subsidiary Parvus announced a new white paper entitled "Engineering Today's Military Electronics to Meet Size, Weight and Power Demands." The white paper outlines how Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) constraints are shaping the design of both wearable computers and mission computer subsystems to help the military improve operational efficiency and logistics, increase mission life, and reduce the total cost of system ownership. This free white paper can be downloaded from the Parvus Literature page here. -- Posted Friday, April 5, 2013 by chb

Mushkin shipping new 1.8-inch high-capacity SATA III Chronos GO SSDs
Mushkin announced the availability of its new line of 1.8-inch Chronos GO SATA III (6Gbps) solid-state drives (SSDs), now shipping in 120GB, 240GB and 480GB capacities. The new 1.8-inch Chronos SSDs feature a smaller, lighter footprint than the previous generation, and offer performance and reliability improvements as well. Originally designed as enterprise-class drives, the new Chronos SSDs now deliver the highest possible storage capacity in a drive that is optimized for use in even in the most demanding 24x7 environments. -- Posted Thursday, April 4, 2013 by chb

Microsoft makes available Windows Embedded 8 Industry
Microsoft announced the availability of Windows Embedded 8 Industry. In contrast to "componentized" versions of embedded operating systems, this one is a fixed-image OS that Microsoft says is especially suited for industrial devices, control panels, kiosks, and POS terminals. The primary advantages of a fixed image are security, simplicity, and application compatibility across devices. The disadvantage is that a fixed image isn't customizable, and so there are actually three versions of WE8 Industry: Pro (ATMs and devices for the healthcare and manufacturing), Pro Retail (POS terminals, kiosks, scanners, etc.), and Enterprise (designed to integrate seamlessly with Windows 8 Enterprise). [See Windows Embedded 8 Industry: A Modern OS for Industry Devices] -- Posted Tuesday, April 2, 2013 by chb

Germane Systems now offers conformal coating
Germane Systems, a woman-owned small business designer and manufacturer of rugged computer systems and servers, has integrated conformal coating into the services provided by its in-house facilities in Chantilly, Virginia. Conformal coatings increases the reliability of electronic systems, insulating circuit boards and protecting components from damage. Germane Systems' products include the Germane XtremeBox and ToughBox families of powerful rugged computers designed for homeland security, commercial security, maritime and military and applications. -- Posted Tuesday, April 2, 2013 by chb

Review: Logic Instrument Fieldbook A2
We reviewed Logic Instrument's second generation Fieldbook, a smaller and lighter version of a standard industrial tablet computer. Measuring a compact 9.1 x 5.9 x 1.8 inches and weighing a bit over three pounds, the tough and rugged Fieldbook has a 7-inch 1024 x 600 pixel display, and all I/O is via standard ports. The highly configurable device is now powered by an economical Intel Atom N2600 CPU, can provide full-shift operation on a charge of its two batteries, and offers a wealth of optional integrated data collection and wireless functionality such as scanning, RFID, GPS and 4G/LTE radio. [See review of the Logic Instrument Fieldbook A2] -- Posted Tuesday, April 2, 2013 by chb

Latest Handheld Group newsletter
The Handheld Group's latest newsletter reports that their Algiz 7 tablet PC helped the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (see here) and Peikko Finland improve operations (see here), provided a handy link to their latest product lineup brochure (see here), and one to a preview of the upcoming British action film "All Things to All Men" where Handheld Group computers make appearances (see here). See the newsletter here. -- Posted Sunday, March 31, 2013 by chb

Xplore adds Common Access Card reader-equipped rugged tablet for military and government
Xplore Technologies introduced a new version of their ultra-rugged tablet computer, the iX104C5-M2. In essence, this is a specialized model for military and government personnel that require additional hardware security on top of the various security hardware, software and firmware measures already inherent in modern computing technology. What the new M2 model adds is an integrated common access card (CAC) reader. With the reader, in order to get access to critical data, a U.S. government issued ISO 7816 smart card must be inserted. [read more]
-- Posted Wednesday, March 27, 2013 by chb

Panasonic expands national cooperative purchasing agreement to include Toughpad tablets
Panasonic announced an amendment to the contract available through the National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company (National IPA) to include the Toughpad family of rugged, reliable enterprise-grade tablets. With this addition, public and nonprofit agencies across the country have a new, efficient method to purchase Panasonic's family of tablet computers built for jobs that demand reliable and secure technology able to withstand challenging conditions, including law enforcement and first responders, field inspectors and medical professionals. Panasonic's Toughpad family of rugged tablets includes the Windows 8-based 10-inch Toughpad FZ-G1, the Android-powered 7-inch ToughpadJT-B1, and the Toughpad FZ-A1, a 10-inch FIPS 140-2-compliant rugged Android-powered tablet -- Posted Tuesday, March 26, 2013 by chb

Xplore to provide rugged tablets to medical device engineering company
Xplore Technologies announced it will provide its iX104C5 Dual-Mode Lite rugged tablets to a leading medical equipment manufacturer to be utilized as a control unit for a medical device that temporarily takes over the function of a vital organ, helping to save lives. The order, valued at more than $2.5 million, is the continuation of a relationship that began in 2012. [See Xplore news release] -- Posted Monday, March 25, 2013 by chb

Duke University to measure altitude sickness on Mount Everest using MobileDemand T7200 rugged Tablet PC
MobileDemand announced a unique and demanding application for their xTablet T7200 rugged Tablet PC (see our review) as Duke University researchers begin a trek up Mount Everest where they will study whether the amount of oxygen in blood is related to altitude sickness. Even Everest base camps are at altitudes of about 17,000 feet where there's only 54% of the oxygen available at sea level., i.e. significantly below the oxygen level generally considered necessary for human survival. [See MobileDemand press release and Duke University coverage of the Everest trek] -- Posted Monday, March 25, 2013 by chb

Fuji FinePix XP200: for when you need a tough camera on the job
Almost any job in the field benefits from image and video documentation, but integrated cameras aren't always up to the job, and smartphones are too fragile for the field. Enter the US$299 Fuji FinePix XP200, a 16mp camera with a 5X optical zoom and WiFi that can also shoot 1080p HD video at 60 frames per second. Best: it's IP68 rated, totally water- and dust-proof, freeze-proof, and can handle drops from almost seven feet. [See description, analysis and specs of the Fuji FinePix XP200] -- Posted Saturday, March 23, 2013 by chb

Microsoft releases embedded versions of Windows 8
Microsoft announced the general availability of embedded versions of Windows 8. These include Windows 8 Embedded Pro (full capability of Win 8; see here), Windows 8 Embedded Standard (componentized version of Windows 8; see here), and Windows Embedded 9 Industry (fixed platform for retail, finance and hospitality applications; see here). More info is available from Microsoft's Windows Embedded 8 site. -- Posted Wednesday, March 20, 2013 by chb

e-con Systems launches 1080p camera board for TI OMAP 4 systems
e-con Systems, which specializes in the development of embedded camera solutions, announced a full-HD camera board solution for devices based on TI OMAP 4 processors. The e-CAM51_44x can stream and record full 1080p/30 or 720p/60 video. At a time where customers expect full HD video in their handhelds and tablets, this is an interesting add-on solutions for designers and manufacturers of rugged mobile technology. [See e-con OMAP4 camera video and product page] -- Posted Wednesday, March 20, 2013 by chb

Added: Logic Instrument Fieldbook B1 rugged and highly configurable 10.4-inch Windows 7 tablet
Logic Instrument introduced the Fieldbook B1, a 10.4-inch class rugged Windows 7 tablet powered by an Intel Atom N2600 processor. The Fieldbook B1, which uses a resistive digitizer, can handle 6-foot drops, extreme temperatures, is IP65 sealed, yet weighs only 3.5 pounds. The B1 can be equipped with RFID, 3.5G WWAN or 4G LTE, 1D/2D scanner, and it offers RS232 legacy support. [See description, analysis and specs of the Logic Instrument Fieldbook B1] -- Posted Wednesday, March 20, 2013 by chb

Motorola Solutions homored with five Red Dot Product Design 2013 Awards
Motorola Solutions announced that it has been honored with five red dot product design 2013 awards, including the HC1 headset computer (see here) and the Android-based MC40 mobile computer (see here), for their excellence in design quality. They were selected by a 37-member jury of international experts out of more than 4,600 entries in 19 categories. [See Motorola Solutions press release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 19, 2013 by chb

Intermec stockholders approve adoption of merger with Honeywell
Intermec announced that its stockholders voted overwhelmingly to approve the adoption of the previously announced merger between Intermec and Honeywell. Approximately 99% of Intermec's shares voted at the special meeting of Intermec's stockholders, or approximately 79% of Intermec's outstanding shares of common stock as of the close of business on January 25, 2013, were voted in favor of the adoption of the Merger Agreement. [See Intermec press release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 19, 2013 by chb

Rugged Parvus DuraCOR 830 passes extreme testing
Eurotech subsidiary Parvus announced that the DuraCOR 830, a rugged tactical mission processor subsystem based on an ultra-low power Intel Atom CPU with integrated MIL-STD-1553 databus interfaces has successfully completed military standard qualification testing to extreme MIL-STD-810G environmental conditions, MIL-STD-461F electromagnetic interference/compatibility (EMI/EMC), and MIL-STD-1275/704 power requirements. [See Parvus DuraCOR product page] -- Posted Tuesday, March 19, 2013 by chb

Added: CipherLab CP50 rugged Windows Embedded Handheld industrial handheld
The CipherLab CP50 industrial mobile computer combines PDA, phone, data communication, GPS, and scanning functionality into a single and compact Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 device. Offering impressive ruggedness specs (5-foot drop, 14 to 131 degree operating temperature range, 1,000 0.5-meter tumbles, etc.), this is a data capture solution for use in the field, on the road, in warehousing, and just generally for deployment in harsh environments. [See description, analysis and specs of the CipherLab CP50] -- Posted Monday, March 18, 2013 by chb

Case study: Panasonic Toughbooks and Arbitrator 360 cameras improve Brewer PD evidence capture
Panasonic published a new case study highlighting the Brewer, ME Police Department's successful deployment of the Toughbook Arbitrator 360-degree in-car digital video system. The complete, mobile in-car video surveillance system has provided the department with a streamlined, reliable solution for evidence capture and management. [See Panasonic evidence capture case study] -- Posted Friday, March 15, 2013 by chb

Advantech upgrades 15 and 17-inch rugged Panel PCs
Advantech announced that two of their rugged panel PCs, the 15-inch PPC-6150 and the 17-inch PPC-6170, now come with Intel 3rd generation Core processors, RAID control and multiple expansion slots for increased functionality. The chips (2.4GHz Core i3-3120ME and 2.7GHz Core i5-3610ME) offer about a 20% speed increase and better support 3D visual computing. [See Advantech press release]
-- Posted Friday, March 15, 2013 by chb

Full review: Winmate C350T
Even in an era of ultra-slender smartphones with retina-class multi-touch displays, there's still room for a simple, traditional Pocket PC-style PDA like the Winmate C350T, especially when it comes with modern technology, features and options. And even more so if it's rugged, economical, and available with your choice of industrial-grade data capture capabilities and a variety of operating system. [See full review of the Winmate C350T compact industrial PDA] -- Posted Wednesday, March 13, 2013 by chb

CipherLab CP60: ultra-rugged Windows CE/Mobile industrial handheld that even supports 4G LTE
The CipherLab CP60 industrial mobile computer combines PDA, phone, data communication, GPS, and scanning functionality into a single and compact (albeit rather large) Windows CE/Mobile (either is available) handheld. Offering superior ruggedness specs (6-foot drop, -4 to 122 degree operating temperature range, 2,000 1-meter tumbles, etc.), this is a unit for the toughest jobs out there. [See description, analysis and specs of the CipherLab CP60] -- Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 by chb

Avalue Technology launches rugged small-footprint Intel 3rd-gen Core-powered Box PC
Avalue Technology unveiled the EPS-QM77E, a rugged small-footprint Box PC able to handle operating temperatures between -14 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit as well as shock and strong vibration. The system provides superior performance via 3rd-gen Intel Core i5/i7 processors and also offers extensive onboard connectivity. [See Avalue EPS-QM77 product sheet] -- Posted Friday, March 8, 2013 by chb

Advantech releases semi-rugged 10.4-inch Windows 7 tablet
Advantech released the PWS-770 semi-rugged Tablet PC that runs either Windows 7 or Windows Embedded Standard 7 on a dual-core Intel Atom N2600 processor. The tablet has a 10.4-inch XGA outdoor-viewable resistive touchscreen, very good onboard connectivity, and offers a variety of optional data capture modules (barcode scanner, MSR, RFID). [See description, analysis and specs of the Advantech PWS-770] -- Posted Thursday, March 7, 2013 by chb

Added: AMREL DT6 rugged tablet with integrated keyboard
AMREL recently released the ROCKY DT6, an Intel Atom Z530-powered rugged Windows 7 (or Linux) tablet with an 8.9-inch 1024 x 600 pixel resistive touch screen. The 4.4 pound DT6 differentiates itself with an integrated keyboard and extensive I/O, wireless and expansion options. [See description, analysis and specs of the AMREL DT6 rugged tablet] -- Posted Thursday, March 7, 2013 by chb

Motion posts new F5t tablet video
Motion posted a new 3-minute video highlighting its rugged F5t tablet and all of the product's features. [See new Motion F5t video] -- Posted Wednesday, March 6, 2013 by chb

Enterprise Mobile reaches 250,000 managed devices
Enterprise Mobile, a business unit of Intermec that provides comprehensive mobility managed services, announced that it has reached a major operational milestone by now having more than 250,000 devices under contract for managed services. Enterprise Mobile provides initial device setup and deployment, 24x7x365 customer-branded helpdesk and device depot services, including overnight device replacement, warranty management, and recycling. -- Posted Wednesday, March 6, 2013 by chb

ConnectedHealth introduces Nursing Manager app on Android tablet
ConnectedHealth announced the availability of the ConnectedHealth Nursing Manager Application (NMA) and ConnectedHealth Secure Medical Tablet. Working together, the new system automates the collection of medical information for patients in a clinical setting. Pricing for the Secure Medical Tablet with NMA begins at US$500, with a monthly software subscription fee. [See press release] -- Posted Wednesday, March 6, 2013 by chb

Full review: Getac Z710 7-inch rugged Android tablet
The Getac Z710 rugged tablet can do everything Android-based consumer media tablets can do and it can also be used as a phone, but this nicely designed and very solid tablet also offers industrial-grade scanning, RFID and contactless smart card reading. And its internal cameras are good enough not only for video conferencing, but also for documentation quality still images and HD video. Overall, the Getac Z710 is an attractive, well conceived and executed product that should be on the short list of anyone seeking an enterprise-grade Android tablet device. [See full review of the Getac Z710] -- Posted Wednesday, March 6, 2013 by chb

Fujitsu deploys PalmEntry access control system
Fujitsu Frontech North America announced that it has installed the PalmEntry Physical Access Control system at BlueVault in San Diego, CA. The PalmEntry system is a secure, contactless, biometric access control solution that positively authenticates the identity of an individual via fast, non-intrusive, spoof-proof technology that uses a vein sensors with near-infrared light to capture a user’s palm vein pattern, generating a unique biometric template that is matched against the palm vein patterns of pre-registered users. -- Posted Tuesday, March 5, 2013 by chb

Toshiba announces intelligent wearable vital signs sensor module
Toshiba announced that it has developed an intelligent vital signs sensor module that simultaneously senses information on key vital signs such as electro cardiogram, pulse, body temperature and movements, and that can deliver the data to smartphones and tablet PCs via wireless. Numerous healthcare applications come to mind. [See Toshiba press release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 5, 2013 by chb

Motion honors Barnabas Health
Motion, honored Barnabas Health with the 4th Annual Excellence in Mobile Point of Care Award -- North America at the 2013 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Annual Conference and Exhibition. Barnabas Health is enabling the highest quality of patient care and health education by delivering dependable network connectivity through Motion wireless network design solutions. -- Posted Monday, March 4, 2013 by chb

Xplore secures additional seven-figure military contract for its rugged tablets
Xplore Technologies, announced a significant purchase of its iX104C5 DMSR-M rugged tablet from the U.S. military. The order of more than 200 rugged tablets will be delivered during the next two months. -- Posted Monday, March 4, 2013 by chb

Handheld Group upgrades Nautiz X1 rugged smartphone and Algiz 10X rugged tablet
The Handheld Group has upgraded its interesting new Nautiz X1 ultra-rugged Android smartphone to 1 GB of RAM and 4 GB of Flash, and the optional extended Li-Ion battery now packs 3060 mAh Li-Ion (twice that of the standard battery). The rugged Algiz 10X tablet also receives an upgrade: it now comes standard with a 128 SSD. -- Posted Saturday, March 2, 2013 by chb

Windows 8 adoption very slow
According to Net Applications, four months after its release, the worldwide percentage of PCs running Windows 8 is at just 2.7%, which is far behind the 9.1% share Windows 7 had reached after four months, and even behind that of the much maligned Vista (4% after 4 months). It sees that Microsoft will have to do something to address the situation. -- Posted Saturday, March 2, 2013 by chb

Latest TouchStar newsletter
We received issue #117 of the TouchStar newsletter, which is always full of interesting and entertaining stuff. In this one there's a case study of AFD Petroleum's use of TouchStar's FuelWare solution, running on its 7-inch FLEX rugged tablet. [See TouchStar newletter] -- Posted Friday, March 1, 2013 by chb

Toshiba launches new line of image recognition processors
Of note: Toshiba introduced a new line of their Visconti image recognition processors that use Toshiba and ARM Cortex A9 cores on the hardware side and image recognition algorithms on the software side to analyze large volumes of image data from video sources, frame-by-frame, in real time. For now, the processors can recognize traffic lanes, vehicles, pedestrians, traffic signs and more, but Toshiba thinks the new Visconti 3 Series will extend the range of use beyond automotive systems to industrial applications. [See Toshiba Visconti page and press release] -- Posted Friday, March 1, 2013 by chb

VectraCor teams up with MobileDemand to offer C1200 rugged convertible
MobileDemand, a global provider of rugged tablet PC systems, and VectraCor, an emerging medical device company for cardiovascular solutions, have partnered to provide a turnkey solution to the healthcare industry for patients presenting with chest pain to detect real-time ECG changes suggestive of a heart attack. VectraCor has chosen the xTablet C1200 rugged convertible to use as their mobile, rugged version of the VectraplexECG System. -- Posted Thursday, February 28, 2013 by chb

N-trig launches DuoSense Pen2, swipes at Wacom
N-trig announced the release of its second generation DuoSense Pen family. Available in models of 9.5mm, 8.0mm and 5.5mm diameter, the active pen solution employs high pressure sensitivity, hover and function buttons with advanced palm rejection, pursuing a natural writing experience for screen ink input in both rechargeable and battery-operated pen models. The N-trig press release quotes David Daoud, IDC's Research Director for Personal Computing as saying, "Up to now, the use of digital pens in personal computing has been irrelevant. The quality of such input devices and lack of applications made the digital pen experience rather painful." -- Posted Wednesday, February 27, 2013 by chb

MultiTouch Ltd introduces MultiTaction Codice
MultiTouch Ltd introduced MultiTaction Codice, a technology where interactive digital displays can read a person's 2D barcode and send content directly to the person's email address. Codice markers are managed by the content owner that can integrate the Codice information into any CRM or loyalty program they are using. [See press release] -- Posted Wednesday, February 27, 2013 by chb

Fujitsu announces enterprise-class, dust- and waterproof 10.1-inch Windows tablet
Fujitsu announced its new Arrows Tab Q852/F tablet for enterprise customers. The device is based on Intel's new "Clover Trail" Atom Z2760 processor, measures 10.4 x 6.7 x 0.4 inches, weighs 1.3 pounds, has a 10.1-inch 1366 x 768 pixel screen, integrated LTE mobile broadband, runs Windows 8, runs 10 hours on a charge, and comes with 2GB of RAM and 64GB of SSD. Most interestingly for enterprise customers who seek something more durable than your standard media tablet, the Arrows Tab tablets will carry IP58 sealing, meaning they're totally dust and waterproof. [See Fujitsu press release] -- Posted Tuesday, February 26, 2013 by chb

Review: Juniper Systems Aspect field mapping solution
There's a large demand for the creation of as-built documentation of irrigation systems, infrastructures, buildings, and numerous other assets. Traditional GIS and triangulation surveying are too often expensive for this type of work that does not always need sub-meter accuracy. We're looking at Juniper Systems' Aspect field mapping solution, an easy-to-use system with desktop and mobile components, designed for generating informative, attractive as-built documentation. [See description and analysis of the Juniper Systems Aspect field mapping solution] -- Posted Monday, February 25, 2013 by chb

4K video soon available in smartphones and tablets
Aptina announced new 12- and 13-megapixel mobile image sensors for high end smartphones. The new sensors deliver superior low light performance and still and high speed video high dynamic range (HDR) allowing exceptional pictures and video with incredibly fine detail regardless of lighting conditions. The new AR1230 can capture 4K video at 30fps as well as 1080P video up to 96fps. The AR1330 adds enhanced image stabilization. Both sensors support super slow motion video, computational array imaging and 3D image capture and come in standard 8.5 x 8.5mm modules with low Z-heights to leading OEMs and camera module integrators. -- Posted Monday, February 25, 2013 by chb

Samwell Ruggedbook: Computer use in high-dust environments
While the ability to survive drops and vibration are vital features of rugged tablet computers, sealing against water, dust and solids can be equally or more important in many extreme environments. Metal casting foundries, for example, require the ability to operate in extreme temperatures as well as complete, reliable sealing against dust. In a new feature Taiwanese Samwell discusses the importance of ingress protection in foundries, and the advantage of using rugged tablet computers such as their Ruggedbook SR820 in foundry environments. [See Computer use in high-dust environments] -- Posted Sunday, February 24, 2013 by chb