May 2007

If you need a fully rugged notebook that can also accommodate standard ISA, PCI or PCI Express cards via special expansion units that attach onto the bottom of the computer, the GETAC A790 fits the bill. It is equipped with the latest technology, offers superb expandability via two peripheral bays, and packs more battery power than any other notebook we've tested. IP54 sealing, low temperature operation, optional touch and sunlight-readable screens, numerous civilian and military radios options make the GETAC A790 a compelling choice. [Read full review of the GETAC A790 rugged notebook]

Wyse shipping thin clients with Windows Embedded CE 6.0
Wyse Technology announced that it is shipping thin clients based on Microsoft Windows Embedded CE 6.0 with its optimized security and IT administration features while utilizing enhanced add-on and peripheral support. Windows Embedded CE 6.0 enables Wyse thin computers to support the latest Windows Embedded CE-based applications while making it easier to integrate and manage peripherals such as wireless adapters, smart card readers and security solutions. Embedded CE 6.0 is ideal for IT departments and organizations that require Citrix ICA, Microsoft RDP as well as a local browser and terminal emulation support. -- Posted Friday, May 18, 2007

Fujitsu announces U Series convertible UMPC
Adding to its long tradition of offering pen slates, Tablet PC convertibles, and mini notebooks with touchscreens, Fujitsu announced the U Series of convertible ultra-mobile PCs. Unlike most current UMPCs, the U Series offers full (albeit cramped) notebook functionality with a 74%-scale QWERTY keyboard as well as tablet operation. The little device measures just 6.75 × 5.25 inches, is barely over an inch thick, and weighs about 1.3 pounds. The U Series is powered by an 800 MHz Intel A110 chip, has 20-40GB of hard disk, 512MB or a gig of RAM, and a 5.6-inch wide screen with 1024x600 resolution. Either Windows XP Pro or Vista are available, and the starting price in Japan is US$1,199. [Read our description of the Fujitsu U-Series UMPC convertible] -- Posted Wednesday, May 16, 2007

I-O corporation launches new line of thin clients
Utah-based I-O Corporation launched a new line of simple, secure thin clients that are small enough to mount on the back of standard LCD monitors. The new I-O Windows XP Embedded and Windows CE based Pro|Edge thin clients are available for a 30-day trial offer as part of the launch. The ProEdge C10 Thin Client, for example, has a 1GHz processor, runs Windows CE 5.0, can display up to 1600 x 1200 pixels, yet measures just 1.5 x 6 x 5.3 inches. [see ProEdge lineup] -- Posted Monday, May 14, 2007

Toshiba reveals new, brighter industrial LCDs
Toshiba Matsushita Display Technology Co. has expanded its lineup of industrial-use TFT LCDs with six new modules. The new products include a 12.1-inch SVGA (800 x 600) panel with ultra-high brightness of 1,000 cd/m sq. for improved viewability for vending machines, ticket dispensers, or other equipment installed outdoors; 3.5- and 5.7-inch QVGA (320 x 240) modules with enhanced resolution and replaceable LED backlights for use in measuring instruments and handheld computing devices; high-brightness 10.4-inch and lightweight 8.4-inch modules to expand TMD's popular SVGA line; and a new 7.0-inch module to expand TMD's WVGA (800 x 480) wide-screen lineup. [see our full writeup on the new Toshiba panels] -- Posted Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Motion offers 32GB solid state drive for the LS800 Tablet PC
In what may well become a rapidly ccelerating trend, Motion Computing is now offering a 1.8-inch 32GB solid state drive for its ultra-compact LS800 Tablet PC. Since Flash has no moving parts, reliability is improved, there is 10% more battery life, and data is accessed faster. The new SSD drive has the same formfactor as a 1.8-inch hard drive, and current LS800 owners can upgrade their devices to an SSD drive via one of Motion's Certified Maintainer partners. [see our review of the Motion LS800] -- Posted Tuesday, May 8, 2007