October 2012

Microsoft unveils Windows Phone 8
Microsoft officially debuted Windows Phone 8, the latest version of the company's smartphone operating system, along with details and pricing for a range of new smartphones from Nokia (Lumia 920), Samsung (ATIV S) and HTC (8X). With a similar look and feel, the same technology core, and the same built-in SkyDrive cloud service, Microsoft says Windows Phone 8 is built to work seamlessly with Windows 8 PCs, Microsoft Surface devices and the Xbox 360 console. [See Microsoft press release] -- Posted Tuesday, October 30, 2012 by chb

Intermec adds updated models to its CK3 line of rugged mobile computers
Intermec announced what it called the "Next Generation Series" of the Intermec CK3 rugged mobile computer, consisting of the newly TI OMAP-powered CK3X and CK3R. The CK3X, which supports voice and RFID, is optimized for warehouse operations and is the natural migration option from the existing CK3B, while the CK3R is optimized for light industrial and retail front of store applications. [See description and specs of the Intermec CK3R and CK3X] -- Posted Tuesday, October 30, 2012 by chb

Honeywell announces rugged Enterprise Hybrid Device
Honeywell announced the Dolphin 70e Black. It's what Honeywell calls a rugged Enterprise Hybrid Device, or EHD, and it was created for auto-ID and data capture customers who want something lighter and sleeker than a traditional industrial handheld. The Dolphin 70e Black looks like a modern smartphone, measures about 2.7 x 5.5 x 0.75 inches, weighs 7 ounces, has a 4.3-inch sunlight-readable display with a capacitive touch screen, and is sealed to IP67 specs. The battery lasts up to 12 hours and the device includes an enterprise-class area imager. The device will be available in February of 2012 both in Windows and Android versions. [See Honeywell press release] -- Posted Tuesday, October 23, 2012 by chb

Motorola Solutions introduces HC1 headset computer for completely hands-free operation
Motorola Solutions introduced the HC1 headset computer. The HC1 combines an OMAP 3730-powered computer with a micro-display to create a wearable headset device that is completely hands-free to operate via voice commands and sensor-based head-tracking. The HC1, which is based on Windows CE 6.0, was created in a collaboration between Motorola Solutions and Kopin Corporation, and uses Kopin's Golden-i technology. [See analysis and specs of the Motorola HC1 headset computer] -- Posted Monday, October 22, 2012 by chb

Juniper Systems releases Aspect Field Mapping Solutions
Juniper Systems announced Juniper Aspect Field Mapping Solutions. Formerly known as IntuiTrace, the new, enhanced version offers more imagery options, increased database functionality, and compatibility with Bing and Google Earth maps, ESRI, ArcGIS Online and existing customer GIS. Juniper Aspect was designed from the ground up as an accurate as-built documentation solution for the Juniper Mesa Rugged Notepad and Archer Field PC that seamlessly synchronizes between handhelds and desktops. [See the Juniper Systems Aspect page, the Aspect brochure, or view an Aspect explanation video on YouTube. -- Posted Tuesday, October 16, 2012 by chb

Sand Springs police department deploys Intermec e-Citation solution for improved safety and efficiency
Intermec announced that the Sand Springs Police Department, located in the suburbs of Tulsa, Oklahoma, has deployed a new e-Citation solution featuring the Intermec CN50 mobile computer and digiTICKET software from Tulsa-based Saltus Technologies. The solution replaces SSPD's carbon paper-based process for improved efficiency and officer safety. With the new system, officers scan the 2D barcode on the back of a driver’s license using the CN50 scanner and can quickly complete tickets by printing with mobile thermal printers. The CN50 also allows the digiTICKET software to capture an electronic signature, photograph, GPS coordinates of the stop and even voice-directed notes by the officer. [See Intermec press release]
-- Posted Monday, October 1, 2012 by chb