Rugged notebook computer with large 17-inch wide format display
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

Based in El Monte, California, AMREL (AMerican RELiance) has a long history of offering value-added applications in vertical markets. The Rocky line of ruggedized notebook computers was introduced in 1995 and has been updated, enhanced, and fine-tuned every since. AMREL was among the first to offer the full power, expansion, and convenience of a standard notebook in a ruggedized package.

A Rocky Matrix did well in one of our Pen Computing Magazine roundups with its combination of design, performance, and ruggedness. We also liked the ultra-sealed keyboard and individual rubber plugs.

AMREL uses a base notebook platform that is then customized and specialized for industrial and military markets. The military-spec models are the RT8 with a 13.3-inch display, and the RK8 with a 15.1 inch display, and the RF8 with a 17-inch display. The military models carry an "-M" suffix and have a military-green case whereas the industrial models have a "-I" suffix and have black housings.

The military grade rugged notebooks feature the latest computing technology and are built to handle everything from daily communications to mission critical situations in harsh environments and severe weather. To that extent, machines are subjected to all pertinent MIL-STD-810F tests and carry a IP54 ingress protection rating. The 17-inch version with its wide 16:10 aspect ratio 1440 x 900 pixel display is especially well suited for applications requiring high resolution and a lot of screen real estate. However, there is no touch screen option for the 17-inch display.

Since machines in this class will be used outdoors and require sunlight-viewable displays, they are equipped with AMREL's proprietary Alpha-Star(TM) SRL display technology that increases screen contrast while reducing reflective glare for maximum readability under bright conditions. The Alpha-Star display is also available with an optional resistive touch-screen.

All 8-Series machines benefit from technology upgrades that include Intel Core 2 Duo processors, maximum memory up to 4GB, a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) video port, as well as optional GPS, high-powered graphics processors, and 3.5G wide area wireless.

AMREL uses a proprietary "dock under" system for easy mounting and dismounting from vehicles of all types. There are multiple expansion capabilities, including a choice of two USB ports or two PCI ports, enabling convenient device integration. AMREL also has a Customizable COTS program, so any of their rugged notebooks can be designed to fit a customer's unique requirements, specs and environments.