Compact, rugged handheld computer with "Green Spot" laser now runs Windows or Android
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

Datalogic announced the Skorpio X4 mobile computer on December 12, 2017. The Skorpio X4 is Datalogic's follow-up to its very popular Skorpio X3 and original Skorpio predecessors, of which half a million have been sold. It 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.

Compared to the original Skorpio and the Skorpio X3, the new X4 model is available either with Microsoft Windows Embedded Compact 7 or the Android 4.4 operating system. Tom Burke, Datalogic VP Mobile Product Marketing said, "We provide an easy migration path to Android models reflecting the recent Enterprise trends." The new Skorpio 4 is also faster and benefits from an number of technological and interface updates. That includes a change from the old 624MHz PXA310 processor to a (non-specified) 1GHz TI Omap 4 chip..

The Skorpio 4, which provides full compatibility with the previous Skorpio X3 accessories, is a fairly compact design that weighs less than a pound, but remains handy and pocketable (assuming your pockets are on the large side). The device can be ordered with a full 50-key alphanumeric keypad, a 38-key "function" keypad, or a 28-key numeric pad for rapid data entry for inventory, shelf replenishment, price management, order entry, assisted sales, and line busting assignments.

The Skorpio X4 can be ordered with either a 1D imager that auto-detects all standard 1D codes (including GS1 DataBar linear codes) or a standard range 2D imager that reads Aztec Code, Data Matrix, MaxiCode, PDF417, MicroPDF417, Micro QR Code, QR Code, Australian Post, Japanese Post, KIX Code, Royal Mail, USPS Intelligent Mail, USPS PLANET, USPS POSTNET UPC/EAN/JAN Composites, GS1 DataBar Composites and GS1-128 Composite (with composites only supported on WEC7 units). To make scanning easier, Datalogic equipped the Skorpio with its patented "green spot" feedback that provides a "good read" green dot directly on the code.

The Skorpio X4's wireless communication capabilities include Bluetooth and dual-band 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi. Cisco Compatible Extensions (CCX) certification Version 4 allows access to all the advantages of the Cisco WLAN infrastructure.

Wired connectivity includes USB 2.0 host and client, and 3-pin RS232. Expansion is via a Micro-SDHC Card slot for cards with capacities up to 32GB.

The Skorpio X4's transflective backlit display still measures the same 3.2 inches diagonally as in the predecessor Skorpio 3. Resolution remains at 240 x 320 pixel, making for a reasonable 125 ppi, enough for a small display.

Like most Datalogic mobile computers, the Skorpio is tough and rugged. It is sealed to IP64 specifications, which means it is dust-proof and can handle water spray from all directions. It can also withstand drops from six feet to concrete, and operates within 14 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit.