Winmate Communications reports that their Intel Atom N2600-powered Winmate 7-inch M700D and 9.7-inch M970D rugged tablets are now available with Windows 8. Both tablets offer projected capacitive multi-touch. Winmate also implemented a number of "hot tab" keys as Windows 8 charms, allowing users to quickly access frequently called functions. [See Winmate release]

Datalogic's small, rugged Lynx PDA now certified for AT&T 4G
Datalogic announced that AT&T has certified the Lynx PDA for both voice and data communications on its 4G network. The certification applies to all HSPA+ (3G/4G) models of Datalogic's small and light (9.5 ounces) data capture and communication Lynx PDA that runs Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 on a 2.7-inch display. -- Posted Friday, July 12, 2013 by chb

Xplore Technologies introduces 10.1-inch rugged Android tablet
Xplore Technlogies announced the RangerX, a 2.2-pound, 10.1-inch class rugged Android tablet powered by a 1.5GHz dual-core ARM Cortex A9 processor. Xplore's new tablet merges the kind of state-of-the-art technology consumers expect and demand with the ruggedness and durability business and enterprise need. The RangerX has dual cameras, a high-quality 1366 x 768 pixel IPS projected capacitive touch display, up to 192GB storage, exceptional onboard connectivity (including optional HDMI-in and RJ45), a CAC reader, carries an IP65 ingress protection rating, and has a 10-hour battery life. Pricing starts at US$1,349 [See description, analysis and specs of the Xplore RangerX rugged Android tablet] -- Posted Wednesday, July 10, 2013 by chb

Juniper Systems looking for Project Manager
Just seen on Facebook: Juniper Systems is looking for a new Project Manager: "If you'd like to work for a great company with great benefits, send us an application!" [See job description page] -- Posted Tuesday, July 9, 2013 by chb

Juniper Systems' Archer Field PC used to measure largest trees in the world
Juniper Systems announced that its Archer Field PC was recently used to measure some of the largest trees in the world. Michael Taylor, a member of The Native Tree Society (NTS), used the Archer, Laser Technology Inc.'s MapSmart software and laser rangefinder for the project, and said, "I have not found a better set of tools for the job." For an interesting and very detailed description of the project, see "Precision Footprint Survey With Archer Field PC & MapSmart." -- Posted Tuesday, July 9, 2013 by chb

Dutch hospital uses Datalogic Gryphon imager to help guarantee safety of blood and blood products
Datalogic announced that UMC St Radboud Hospital in Nijmeng, Netherlands, chose Datalogic's Gryphon imager to help guarantee the safety of the blood and blood product distribution process for its patients. Over 400 Gryphon imagers are currently used in the transfusion, hematology, intensive care and neonatology departments. The solution will be expanded to the other departments in the hospital in the near future. [See Datalogic press release and case study] -- Posted Tuesday, July 9, 2013 by chb

Full review: Toughpad G1 -- Panasonic dishes up a very fast and very competent new-era Windows tablet
With the Toughpad G1, Panasonic offers what one might call a "new-era" rugged Windows tablet in the 10-inch class. The Intel Core i5-powered G1 with its 1920 x 1200 pixel dual input (capacitive touch and active pen) screen is light and sleek, yet still provides the toughness and ruggedness Panasonic mobile computers are known for. We've also found it to be a superior performer that still provides very good battery life. [See our full review of the Panasonic Toughpad G1] -- Posted Monday, July 8, 2013 by chb

Expedition to one of the world's coldest places relies on Getac S400 rugged laptop
A scientific expedition to research the structure of the sea ice in the Arctic Ocean put -- Posted Friday, July 5, 2013 by chb

New video: Motion CL910 Tablet PC Overview
Sometimes a picture conveys a thousand words, and a video even more. The latter certainly applies to Motion's new video overview of their CL910 Windows tablet. In a neat and elegant two minutes and 19 seconds presentation, you learn what the tablet is all about, and what it can do. [See Motion CL910 Tablet PC Overview] -- Posted Friday, July 5, 2013 by chb

MobileDemand offers new cradle for its rugged xTablet T1200
Ruggedized tablet PC manufacturer MobileDemand introduced a new cradle for its Intel Core i5-powered rugged Windows tablet computer. Developed for use in vehicles, on forklifts and mounted to walls, the cradle secures the tablet firmly in place but allows quick release for mobility applications or recharging. [See MobileDemand release] -- Posted Tuesday, July 2, 2013 by chb

French services company Connect Assistance deploys 1,000 Samsung tablets in protective cases
TabTimes reports that France-based Connect Assistance deployed 1,000 Samsung Galaxy Tab 7 tablets to its customer and field tech support staff. To prevent damage in the field, the tablets are placed inside shock-resistant cases. Commentary: Another example of a large sale going to consumer technology in cases rather than ruggedized equipment that would probably yield better TOC. [See TabTimes article] -- Posted Monday, July 1, 2013 by chb

What happend in rugged computing 5 years ago: July 2008
Not that much usually happens in the dog days of summer, but the following kept us busy in July of 2008: Fujitsu introduced two Tablet PC convertibles, the Lifebook T5010 and T1010, Itronix (RIP) supported a Zambezi expedition with their super-tough GoBook XR-1. We reviewed the Roper Mobile Duros tablet back when Duros was a separate product line. Intermec relocated final assembly from Everett, WA, to a Singapore serves provider. Honeywell introduced the Dolphin 9900, and announced it was buying Metrologic. And MobileDemand suggested we check if their rugged Tablet P worked underwater. It did, for a while. [See more of what happened in rugged computing five years ago] -- Posted Monday, July 1, 2013 by chb

Xplore reports first profitable full year
Xplore Technologies reported financials for Q4 2013 and all of their fiscal 2013. Q4 revenues were US$7.14million with a net loss of US$164k. For the entire fiscal year 2013, Xplore reported revenues of US$30.5 million, up from US$27.5 million for fiscal 2012. There was a net profit of US$0.3 million for the full year, compared with a net loss of US$0.5 million in 2012, making it the company's first profitable full year. Xplore attributes the good results to increased marketplace acceptance of rugged tablets. [See Xplore financials release] -- Posted Thursday, June 27, 2013 by chb

Case study: How long-lifespan SSDs open new markets for POS
Innodisk, a designer, manufacturer and solution provider of industrial flash storage for embedded systems, reported that they are seeing a lot of interest in their new SSD storage products from the POS and retail industry. Innodisk said that POS systems using SSDs beat HDD units in terms of reliability, performance, power use, weight, size, noise, and durability. In a new case study, Innodisk showed how its customers are using SSD-based POS units in environments previously seen as difficult or impossible. [See Innodisk case study on how SSDs open new POS markets] -- Posted Thursday, June 27, 2013 by chb

DAP Technologies completes global operations expansion
DAP Technologies announced it is realigning operations with the goal to enhance service, support and customer integration needs. With the realignment, the Canadian office in Quebec City (shown in picture) will provide service and support; the UK office is the hub for all European service, support and integration; the Georgia sales office emphasizes on warehouse and logistics markets; the Taiwan office on supply chain efficiency; and the corporate head office in Arizona in integration customization for clients, service, support, and distribution. Also interesting, while in the past DAP concentrated on handhelds, the press release noted that DAP Technologies is now "helping companies make the transition from handhelds to robust, Windows-based rugged tablets and vehicle mount technologies." DAP Technologies President David Molesworth said, "this expansion enhances our ability to bring advanced rugged tablet and vehicle mount technologies to the market and provide customers with the support and customization they require. It’s become less about the product and more about integration and delivering an entire solution for the customer." -- Posted Wednesday, June 26, 2013 by chb

Motion Computing video on total cost of ownership in enterprise mobility technology
Motion Computing has made available an hour-long presentation by VDC Research's David Krebs entitled "Total Cost of Ownership Enterprise Grade Mobility Trends in EMEA." David explains, supported by a body of VDC research and survey results, how in today's economy, businesses are demanding that IT and infrastructure investments deliver tangible benefits and incur predictable costs. With all the choices available and the increased interest in low cost consumer grade tablets for professional use, decision makers need to understand the implications of non-purpose built tablet PC solutions. [See video on YouTube] -- Posted Tuesday, June 25, 2013 by chb

Blog: Logic Supply's logical approach to engineering their own systems
Logic Supply of South Burlington, Vermont, makes and sells rugged industrial and embedded computers and components. They also have their own ideas on how to go about engineering their own systems. RuggedPCReview interviewed Logic Supply's lead engineer Rodney Hill to find out how they do it. [Read more] -- Posted Tuesday, June 25, 2013 by chb

Why the JTG Daugherty NASCAR racing team chose rugged Dells
A few weeks ago Dell reported that the JTG Daugherty Racing NASCAR team was using Dell's rugged Latitude ATG and XFR laptops. RuggedPCReview.com had a chance to speak with representatives from Dell and JTG Daugherty Racing on how they had chosen Dell's rugged technology, and how it was being used in their NASCAR Sprint Cup operation. [Read Why the JTG Daugherty NASCAR racing team chose rugged Dells] -- Posted Monday, June 24, 2013 by chb

Avalue announces Haswell-based ECM-QM87 3.5-inch SBC
Avalue Technology, too, has begun offering Haswell-based embedded solution products, starting with the ECM-QM87 3.5-inch Single Board Computer based on 25 to 47 watt TDP BGA versions of the 4th generation Intel Core processor family and the mobile Intel QM87 Express chipset. [See ECM-QM87 product page and press release] -- Posted Thursday, June 20, 2013 by chb

Xpore adds LTE-equipped version to its iX104C5 tablet lineup
Xplore Technologies announced it is now offering a special version of its utlra-rugged iX104C5 DMSR (dual mode sunlight readable) tablet. The new DMSR LTE model includes an integrated Verizon 4G LTE HSPA+EVDO (Rev A) module for maximum data transfer speed. -- Posted Thursday, June 20, 2013 by chb

British adventurer relies on Getac B300 rugged laptop for record-breaking Atlantic solo row

British adventurer Charlie Pitcher broke the world record for rowing 2,700 miles solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 35 days, in his 20-foot rowboat. He used a -- Posted Thursday, June 20, 2013 by chb

TabletKiosk's Sahara Slate PC i500 line of enterprise tablets gets major tech upgrade and performance boost
TabletKiosk announced that it has added two new models to its flagship line of 12.1" Tablet PCs. The new enterprise-grade Sahara Slate PC i535 and Sahara Slate PC i575 are powered by 3rd generation Intel Celeron and Core i7 vPro processors, offering improved performance, greatly enhanced battery life, and a number of hardware embedded security features. The new models also benefit from other major tech upgrades and now have front and rear-facing cameras, up to 16GB of RAM, up to 1TB hard drives or up to 480GB of SSD, two USB 3.0 ports, DisplayPort, as well as Bluetooth 4.0 and a true native RS232 serial port for legacy device support. [See TabletKiosk press release and description, analysis and full specifications of the TabletPC i535/i575] -- Posted Wednesday, June 19, 2013 by chb

Full review: Advantech ARK-2150L -- Intel 3rd gen Core power and plenty of connectivity
And another opportunity to take a detailed look at a state-of-the-art industrial Box PC: the Advantech ARK-2150L provides 3rd generation Intel Core i3 or i7 performance and features in a compact, super-rugged enclosure with a footprint about that of a Samsung Galaxy tablet. The Core i7-3217UE based version we tested is as fast as leading rugged notebooks, but provides the extensive onboard connectivity, both legacy and current, that many embedded rugged deployments require. [See full review of the Advantech ARK-2150L industrialBox PC] -- Posted Wednesday, June 19, 2013 by chb

Xplore secures rugged tablet order from major US telecommunications provider
Xplore Technologies announced it has received POs for more than $1 million of its iX104C5 DMSR ultra-rugged tablets for deployment from a major U.S. telecommunications provider. The tablets will be deployed in the provider's construction and engineering divisions for use in various field service environments. These orders are a continuation of a previously established relationship. -- Posted Wednesday, June 19, 2013 by chb

ADLINK introduces initial 4th Generation "Haswell" Intel Core processor embedded systems offerings
Embedded computing product provider ADLINK Technology announced availability of its initial offerings on the 4th generation Intel Core processor family (formerly codenamed "Haswell") with Intel 8-series chipsets. The first products featuring the new gen processor are the COM Express Express-HL (shown) and Express-HL2, NuPRO-E42 (PICMG 1.3), and the CompactPCI cPCI-3510 and the Matrix MXE-5400 fanless embedded PC, enabling enhanced embedded applications in medical, defense, transportation, and industrial automation. -- Posted Tuesday, June 18, 2013 by chb

Panasonic introduces ruggedized, weatherproof, direct sunlight capable outdoor LCD displays for digital signage
Panasonic announced the new professional LCD display LFX6 for outdoor digital signage applications. The 47-inch Panasonic TH-47LFX6U professional LCD display, with a full 1,000 cd/m2 of brightness for high visibility even in direct sunlight, and IP44-level dust and water resistance, for outdoor uses such as quick-serve restaurants as digital menu boards in drive-thru lanes, shopping malls as advertising panels and store guides, college campuses for alerts and way finding, and public transportation hubs as schedule, route guide and advertising panels. -- Posted Monday, June 17, 2013 by chb

JLT Mobile doubles standard RAM for its rugged VERSA computers
JL Mobile Computers announced it has doubled the internal memory of its rugged fixed-mount Intel Core i7-powered VERSA computers to 8GB of DDR3 RAM. "With the VERSO series, the highest performance rugged vehicle computers in the market, we meet the tough customer requirements within the growing heavy-duty segment,” said Per Holmberg, CEO at JLT. "This upgrade reinforces our lead position within this demanding segment." -- Posted Monday, June 17, 2013 by chb

Moto's popular, versatile pistol-grip MC9000 Series mobile computer gets a thorough tech update, and it could net the company billions in replacement sales
Over the years, Motorola Solutions has sold over two million MC9000 Series rugged handhelds. Now they introduced the MC9200, which is compatible with all 9000 Series peripherals and accessories, but packs considerably more punch with a 1GHz dual-core TI OMAP 4430 processor, twice the memory and storage, and faster WiFi (802.11a/b/g/n). On the software side, it's now Windows Embedded Compact 7 or Embedded Handheld 6.5.3, and there's FIPS 140-2 Level 1 certification. [See press release and our description, analysis and specs of the Motorola Solutions MC9200] -- Posted Monday, June 17, 2013 by chb

Full review: Advantech's tiny ARK-1122 industrial Box PC
What if you have a stationary application somewhere out there in the field where ruggedness matters, and you need full Windows, but there just isn't much room at all? Consider the ARK-1122 embedded Box PC from Advantech. It runs Windows 7 or Windows Embedded Standard 7 on a 1.86GHz Intel Atom N2800, has plenty of standard-size connectivity, yet isn't even as long as a Samsung Galaxy S4 smartphone, and weighs less than the original iPad. [See review of the Advantech ARK-1122 industrial Box PC] -- Posted Sunday, June 16, 2013 by chb

CipherLab adds push-to-talk to rugged CP60 handheld
Cipherlab USA announced that push-to-talk is now available on their Windows CE/Mobile-based CP60 enterprise mobile computer. With a WLAN or WLAN ad-hoc connection, push-to-talk can also pair up with just about anyone under the same subdomain. [See description and analysis of the Cipherlab CP60] -- Posted Thursday, June 13, 2013 by chb

Intermec research: Mobile technology could cut pickup and delivery times by a third
Intermec polled 375 transport and logistics managers at organizations of over 500 employees within the UK, France, Germany, USA, Australia and New Zealand on the impact mobile technology has on their operations. Among the key findings: New technology could reduce pickup and delivery times by almost a third. Yet, despite believing that mobile technology is effective in improving operational efficiency, almost 3/4 have not evaluated existing processes for the last two years. [See New Technology is Critical to Meeting Customer Demands results] -- Posted Thursday, June 13, 2013 by chb

Microsoft announces general availability of Windows Embedded Compact 2013
Microsoft announced the general availability of Windows Embedded Compact 2013. Unlike the Windows Phone consumer-oriented versions (and Windows Embedded Handheld that's based on Windows Phone 8), WEC 2013 is clearly targeted at small industrial devices based either on x86 or ARM processors. The press release emphasizes applications such as logic controllers, HMI panels, RFID scanners, lab equipment, GPS devices and other embedded devices. There is now Visual Studio 2012 support, quicker startup, and a general emphasis on improved performance. Our take: Yet another "small" version of Windows may confuse Microsoft's mobile and embedded customers who have become uncertain which is what, what each is for, and what's compatible with what. [See Microsoft WEC 2013 press release and the Windows Embedded Compact 2013 product page] -- Posted Thursday, June 13, 2013 by chb

Juniper Systems "All under one roof" video


Rugged handheld computer maker Juniper Systems posted a fun video showing how very quickly they can respond to customer issues and requests with a full project team meeting, because their entire operation, including design and manufacturing, is under one roof. -- Posted Wednesday, June 12, 2013 by chb

F4Tech releases SilvAssist version 3.0.1
F4Tech announced the release of SilvAssist Toolbar Version 3.0.1. SilvAssist is a set of GIS tools for managing forest inventory cruises that aims to be easy to use, save foresters time, and help improve decision making. [See SilvAssist product page] -- Posted Wednesday, June 12, 2013 by chb

Getac Z710 rugged tablet now in ATEX config
-- Posted Wednesday, June 12, 2013 by chb

TabletKiosk and SoftKinetic collaborate on first integrated 3D interface for the enterprise tablet market
SoftKinetic, which provides 3D vision and gesture recognition solutions, together with TabletKiosk, a manufacturer of enterprise-grade tablet PCs, announced they have joined forces to bring embedded 3D camera technology to the portable Tablet PC market. A conceptual prototype integrates the SoftKinetic DepthSense 3D camera with TabletKiosk's Sahara Slate PC i500 platform to provide 3D facial and gesture recognition, 3D mapping, image capture and virtual reality for an enhanced user experience. [See TabletKiosk press release] -- Posted Tuesday, June 11, 2013 by chb

Completion of Intermec sale to Honeywell postponed
The deadline for the completion of the sale of Intermec to Honeywell, already approved by shareholders in Match 2013, was extended by another four months. This, reports the Seattle Times, as a result of the Federal Trade Commission requesting additional information about the deal's antitrust implications. Intermec has over 2,200 employees, with two-thirds in the US. -- Posted Monday, June 10, 2013 by chb

Intel announces next-gen "Bay Trail" Atom platform for tablets and ultra-mobile devices
Intel also announced that its next-generation 22nm Intel Atom processor-based SoC for tablets based on the Silvermont microarchitecture will include quad core processing, Gen 7 graphics, support for DX11, full HD, Intel Burst Technology 2.0, hardware-based security features, 2x CPU improvement and 3x graphics improvement, and support for both Windows and Android. [See Intel press release] -- Posted Wednesday, June 5, 2013 by chb

Haswell (Intel 4th gen Core) has landed: emphasis on mobile, graphics, economy
Well, we can finally officially talk about "Haswell," Intel's 4th generation Core processor family and technology. A detailed report has to wait a few days as most RPCR staff is on the road, so here's just the gist of it: this time it's more about refinements, efficiency and enhanced technologies than about raw performance, so don't expect a lot more speed. There are, however, new graphics levels (including Iris Pro graphics with embedded dedicated memory), and some approach the performance of discrete graphics. Primary emphasis in the 4th gen seems to be on mobile chips, with potentially great power savings. There's a new chipset series (8-Series "Lynx Point") and also a new socket (LGA 1150). There's now support for three independent displays streams, so great news for signage applications. There is a large number of new chips, all with slightly different capabilities, so careful study is required to pick the right one. -- Posted Tuesday, June 4, 2013 by chb

JLT Mobile Computers selected to reduce CO2 emissions from road transports
JLT Mobile Computers announced that the company’s rugged vehicle computer VERSO has been selected as the exclusive computer platform for the Volvo lumber trucks used in the project ETTdemo designed to fulfill Sweden’s goal of greatly reducing CO2 emissions from road transports as well as the forestry industry’s goal to reduce fuel consumption for lumber transport. [Read press release] -- Posted Monday, June 3, 2013 by chb

What happend in rugged computing 5 years ago: June 2008
Almost a quarter million signatures were submitted to Microsoft with the request to save Windows XP. Panasonic introduced the Toughbook U1, Motorola the MC75 enterprise PDA,and LXE the MX3X and the VX3X. MobileDemand demonstrated how one can use a rugged tablet as a hammer, and we did a big review of Getac's rugged B300 notebook. Psion reported that the TSA was beginning to use Pstion Teklogix Workabout Pro handhelds to scan electronic boarding passes. [See the June 2008 archive] -- Posted Monday, June 3, 2013 by chb

Toshiba boosts storage capacity of new enterprise SSDs to 1.6 Terabyte
Toshiba announced it will start sample shipments of its new enterprise SSD series with capacities up to 1.6 Terabyte. This means that solid state storage, which can offer significant speed and reliability advantages over rotating media, is closing the storage capacity gap that traditionally existed between SSD and hard disks. Using a dual-port 12Gb/sec SAS interface, the new Toshiba SSDs come in a form-factor equivalent to industry-standard 2.5-inch HDDs. [See Toshiba Enterprise SSD product page] -- Posted Monday, June 3, 2013 by chb

Juniper, Motion, Trimble to exhibit at ACE13 in Denver
The American Water Works Association will hold its Annual Conference and Exposition June 9-13, 2013 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. Among the over 500 exhibitors are rugged computing notables Juniper Systems (Booth 15058), Motion Computing (Booth 13065), and Trimble. (Booth 1065), [Learn about ACE13] -- Posted Friday, May 31, 2013 by chb

IDC: Tablets to surpass portable PC shipments in 2013, total PC shipments in 2015
International Data Corporation (IDC) published a new forecast that sees tablet shipments growing 58.7% year-over-year in 2013 reaching 229.3 million units, up from 144.5 million units last year. That means more tablets will ship than portable PCs, and by 2015, IDC expects tablets to outsell notebook and desktop PCs combined. Tablet sizes will change, too. Whereas 8 to 11-inch tablets used to dominate, 55% of all tablets sold in 2013 are expected to have displays smaller than 8 inches. [See IDC press release] -- Posted Friday, May 31, 2013 by chb

Tiny computer boards: Advantech SOM-7565 COM Express Mini
Most rugged mobile handhelds, tablets and laptops have motherboards designed specifically for each device. Embedded systems designers often prefer to separate the computer from the I/O and peripheral functionality of their project. This makes projects easy to scale and also obsolescence-proof. We analyzed one such computer module, the tiny Advantech SOM-7565 COM Express Mini that packs an entire Intel Atom N2600-based computer onto a minuscule board. [See description, analysis and specs of the Advantech SOM-7565 COM Express Mini CPU module] -- Posted Friday, May 31, 2013 by chb

Juniper Systems signs French distributor SDMO Quiniou
Juniper Systems announced its new business partnership with SDMO Quiniou, located in Haguenau, France. SDMO Quiniou, which has been providing measurement tools and other related equipment to customers in the forestry, public works, environmental, and outdoor recreation markets, will add to its product line Juniper Systems’ rugged handheld computers, including the Mesa Rugged Notepad, the Archer Field PC, the Allegro MX, and the TK6000. [See Juniper press release] -- Posted Thursday, May 30, 2013 by chb

Rugged, tough AND secure: Xplore iX104C5-M2
RuggedPCReview.com got some extended hands-on with the recently introduced 2nd gen special military version of the Xplore Technologies iX104C5 platform. It comes with an integrated common access card (CAC) reader. The degree of security the CAC provides is mandatory for many branches of government and their contractors, giving the Xplore tablet an edge where that matters. In the process we re-benchmarked Xplore's invincible tablet (which now also supports Windows 8), and it's as impressive as ever. [See Xplore Technologies iX104C5-M2] -- Posted Thursday, May 30, 2013 by chb

Rugged notebooks: challenges and opportunities
We've been working on setting up our new rugged notebook comparison tool over the past few weeks. So far, the tool, where users can compare the full specs of up to three rugged notebooks side-by-side, has far fewer entries than our comparison tools for rugged handhelds and rugged tablets. Why are there only relatively few products out there, and what is the overall rugged notebook situation? [Read more...] -- Posted Tuesday, May 28, 2013 by chb

New: Rugged Notebook comparison tool

In order to let interested parties and prospective customers more easily learn about, and compare, rugged and semi-rugged notebook computers, RuggedPCReview.com has added a Rugged Notebook Comparison Tool. The tool allows you to compare the full specs of up to three rugged laptops side by side, and instantly link to our assessment and analysis of the product. We're still in the process of adding more products, so check back or recommend additional products to be added. [Check out the Rugged Tablet Comparison Tool] -- Posted Tuesday, May 28, 2013 by chb

Added: VT Miltope RPDA-1
VT Miltope's RPDA-1 is not for everyone. In fact, the Alabama-based specialist in rugged computing gear for military, industrial, and commercial aviation applications designed the device as a flexible and highly configurable rugged PDA platform able to run Windows CE, Windows Mobile, Linux or Android on its OMAP 3530 processor with Army requirements in mind. It has a 480 x 800 pixel 4.1-inch touchscreen and can be paired with expansion modules to address numerous military and industrial I/O and communications requirements. [See description, analysis and specs of the VT Miltope RPDA-1] -- Posted Tuesday, May 28, 2013 by chb

Added: Motorola Solutions MW810 R2.0
MW stands for "Mobile Workstation," and the MW810 is Motorola Solutions' offering for anyone who needs a tough, modular mobile computing solution in their vehicles. By separating the screen, keyboard and expansion box, the MW810 system is easy to mount and use. Customers have a choice of high brightness 12.1 or 8.4-inch displays, the latest in storage technology, and a variety of 3rd generation Intel Core processors. It all adds up to getting largely obscolescence-proof computing power in an extremely flexible and expandable package that's ideal for a wide variety of vehicle mount applications. [See description, analysis and specs of the Motorola MW810 R2.0] -- Posted Tuesday, May 28, 2013 by chb

Added: Dell Latitude E6430 ATG
ATG stands for "All Terrain Grade" and at Dell that means "semi-rugged." The 14-inch Dell E630 ATG, while based on the company's consumer Latitude E6430 models, is a good deal tougher and more durable with its spill-resistant keyboard, port covers, shock-mounted hard drive and LCD, and a sturdy magnesium base. Best of all, ATG customers get all the same state-of-the-art technology of the standard E6430 models, and that includes a large variety of 3rd gen Intel Core processors. [See description, analysis and specs of the Dell Latitude E6430 ATG] -- Posted Tuesday, May 28, 2013 by chb

Second generation Handheld Algiz XRW ultra-rugged notebook offers major performance boost
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] -- Posted Friday, May 24, 2013 by chb

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