March 2015

ADLINK introduces COM Express Basic Type 6 module with AMD embedded R-Series APU for HD graphics
ADLINK Technology, a global provider of cloud-based services, intelligent gateways, and embedded building blocks for edge devices that enable the Internet of Things (IoT), today introduced the Express-BE, a COM Express Basic Size Type 6 computer-on-module based on the 2nd generation AMD Embedded R-Series APU (Accelerated Processing Unit, which combines the CPU & GPU on a single System-on-Chip, or SOC) with A77E FCH, delivering power efficiency and high definition visuals to high-performance medical imaging applications. [See ADLINK media release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 31, 2015

SDG Systems enhances EPX Barcode Framework for Android, adding Honeywell and Intermec driver support
SDG Systems, a leader in system and application software integration for Android on enterprise platforms, has enhanced the EPX-Barcode (EPX-B) software in its Enterprise Platform eXtension Framework software solution for Android. SDG has created EPX-B hardware drivers to support Honeywell and Intermec barcode scanning engines on Android. With EPX-B, Android OEMs and ODMs can select from an increasing number of scan engines meet their system requirements. [See SDG Systems EPX-B Barcode Scanning for Android page] -- Posted Tuesday, March 31, 2015

JLT Mobile Computers adds terminal emulator to its line of rugged computers
JLT Mobile Computers announced new solutions for its rugged computers to emulate networked terminals. The terminal emulator, Freefloat Access from Freefloat, connects JLT rugged computers to IBM mainframes (3270), AS/400 (5250), UNIX (VT 100/220), Linux (ANSI) and SAP systems (ANSI). It is developed specifically to deliver an optimized solution for integrating bar codes, 2D codes or RFID in existing legacy host systems, WMS systems like Manhattan or ERP systems like SAP. JLT also provides a virtual keyboard for customizing the user interface, language, typeface and font size. -- Posted Monday, March 30, 2015

Honeywell Scanning & Mobility releases versatile Bay Trail-powered 12.1" Thor VM3 vehicle mount computer
Honeywell Scanning & Mobility has introduced the Thor VM3 vehicle mount computer. Designed for use in the toughest distribution center environments, manufacturing facilities and freight operations, the fully rugged Thor VM3 can run various versions of Windows, comes with resistive or capacitive touch, and offers numerous productivity-enhancing accessories and peripherals. [See RuggedPCReview's description, analysis and specs of the Honeywell Thor VM3] -- Posted Saturday, March 28, 2015

AMREL releases rugged 5.3-inch multi-purpose Android handheld
AMREL introduced the APEX AH53, a handheld that represents a meld between a modern big-screen Android smartphone and a tough, durable mobile computer with industrial-grade features and components. IP67 sealing, a wide operating temperature range, a 5-foot drop spec, NFC, 3.75G WWAN, and the availability of a dedicated 1D/2D barcode reader mean that the AH53 can be used for any number of field data collection, communication and computing assignments even under the most trying conditions. [See RuggedPCReview's description, analysis and specs of the AMREL APEX AH53] -- Posted Saturday, March 28, 2015

Transcend releases industrial-grade wide temperature SDHC/microSDHC memory cards
Ideal for use in rugged mobile devices designed to operate in very wide temperature ranges: Transcend announced the launch of Class 10 wide temperature SDHC and microSDHC memory cards with built-in Error Correction Code (ECC) to its industrial memory card product line. The cards can operate effectively between -40°F and 185°F (-40°C to 85°C) and are ideal for use in devices with demanding performance and capacity requirements. [See lineup of Transcend industrial memory cards] -- Posted Friday, March 27, 2015

Compass Intelligence issues report on US carrier metrics
According to a new report on US carrier metrics by Compass Intelligence, at the end of 2014, the percentage breakdown of all US subscribers (tablets, smartphones, wearables) was Verizon 35.1%, AT&T 30.4%, T-Mobile 15.3&, Sprint 15.0%, US Cellular 1.5% and others 2.8%. Total smartphones reached over 231 million at the end of 4Q 2014. Compass Intelligence also announced that the Go Mobile 2015 conference will be held again in Dallas TX at the Highland Dallas from November 11-13, 2015. [See media release] -- Posted Thursday, March 26, 2015

Getac sees Windows 10 release to fuel rugged PC replacement sales
Focus Taiwan quotes Getac Chairman James Hwang as saying that the Cortana voice-recognition virtual assistant in the upcoming Windows 10 will fuel replacement sales in the rugged PC market. Hwang said Cortana will make it easier to complete work more easily without hand controls in extreme environments. [See article] -- Posted Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Review: Advantech ARK-1123 IoT gateway platform
The Internet of Things may well be the next big advance in worldwide intelligent systems technology, and it requires small, reliable gateway computers that can be deployed anywhere. RuggedPCReview examined Advantech's ARK-1123 IoT gateway platform with a footprint no larger than that of an iPhone 6 Plus. The platform uses a quad-core Bay Trail processor, can use SSDs or full 2.5-inch hard disks, and starts at just US$555. [See full review of the Advantech ARK-1123 IoT gateway] -- Posted Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Value Technology introduces new Rity RISC series of Android-baased POS terminals
Avalue Technology announced it is launching their new new Rity RISC series of Android-based POS terminals to meet the rising demand for new POS and retail application solutions. TheFreescale i.MX6 Cortex-A9-powered Rity RISC series is available as 8, 10, 12, and 15-inch anti-scratch touch panel models with either 5-wire resistive or procap multi-touch with IP65 front panel sealing. [See Avalue Rity terminals product page] -- Posted Tuesday, March 24, 2015

ADLINK debuts ultra-compact fanless quad-core embedded system with IoT gateway functionality
ADLINK announced the release of its MXE-200/200i Series ultra-compact fanless embedded platform with aluminum housing, based on Intel Atom E3845/E3826 CPUs. The MXE-200i adds pre-verified Internet of Things (IoT) functionality to embedded control capabilities, with full Intel IoT Gateway support.​​ [See news release and product info] -- Posted Monday, March 23, 2015

RAM shows new forklift solutions at ProMat 2015
RAM Mounts reports it will show multiple new products and innovations at the ProMat 2015 industry trade show in Chicago, March 23-26 (booth #3970). RAM will show its revolutionary Global Docking System (GDS) for popular handhelds and tablets, GDS Technology for forklifts, as well as new multi-angle, precisely adjustable articulating mounts. [See RAM on ProMat exhibitor floor plan] -- Posted Friday, March 20, 2015

ADLINK launches widescreen rugged Panel PC for hazardous environments
ADLINK announced it has launched its new industrial panel computer, the STC-15W04, designed especially for hazardous industrial areas. The STC-15W04 is a 15.6” wide screen (16:9) industrial panel computer with fanless design and highly efficient heat dissipation for reliable operation.​ The panel PC is also compliant with UL Class 1 Division 2, ATEX Zone 2, and IECEx hazardous locations standards, eliminating it as a possible cause of explosions of gases, vapors and any present liquids and making it suitable for use in food, beverage, chemical and pharmaceutical environments. [See product page] -- Posted Friday, March 20, 2015

Spartan acquires Stealth.com
Sparton Corporation announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Sparton of Canada, Ltd. completed the acquisition of Stealth.com Inc., on March 16, 2015 in an all-cash transaction. Founded in 1990, Stealth.com, located in Woodbridge, Ontario, is a build-to-order, specialty configurator of high performance ruggedized industrial grade computers systems and peripherals that include mini PCs, rackmount server PCs, portable PCs, and LCD touch screen displays. [See news release] -- Posted Friday, March 20, 2015

Cypress's TrueTouch touchscreen solution helps rugged Kyocera DuraForce smartphone handle harsh environments
Cypress Semiconductor announced that Kyocera has selected Cypress's TrueTouch capacitive touchscreen solution for its new, rugged DuraForce smartphone. DuraForce is designed for operation it in harsh environments where water, dust and other hazards are present. The Cypress-enabled, 4.5-inch touchscreen display allows users to make calls, check messages and email, take pictures and use other key features even if they are wearing thick gloves or the screen is wet. [See Cypress media release] -- Posted Friday, March 20, 2015

Full review: Winmate M101H rugged tablet PC
RuggedPCReview conducted a full examination of the thin-and-light Winmate M101H 10.1-inch rugged tablet. We found a compelling combination of a bright, super-high resolution capacitive multitouch display, very good performance thanks to an Intel 4th gen "Haswell" Core processor, attractive design, and full-shift battery life, all in a light but sufficiently hardened package for numerous applications that require Windows in the field, but don't need the extra protection (and weight and cost) of a fully rugged device. [See full review of the Winmate M101H rugged tablet] -- Posted Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Absolute Software expands partnership with Getac
Absolute Software, which provides persistent endpoint security and management solutions, announced an expanded partnership with Getac. Under the agreement, Getac customers will have access to superior security and management features as Getac will be able to distribute Absolute’s Persistence technology on a global basis, with an initial focus on Getac’s North America customers. [See news release] -- Posted Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Video: Trail Systems' ISOC Snow X with RAM Mount X Grip
A new blog post and video on RAM Mount's site demonstrates the gripping power of the RAM MOUNT X-Grip quick release cradle, which securely holds smartphones and handheld devices for easy viewing even on the roughest and bumpiest trails. A video shot by Pro rider Kurt Bauerly shows the RAM MOUNT X-Grip quick release cradle used in Trail Systems' SmartHolder kits for snowmobiles. Trail Systems is a RAM MOUNT authorized distributor that develops mounting kits and smartphone and small tablet navigation trail map apps for the power sports industry. [See ISOC Snow X durability demo] -- Posted Tuesday, March 17, 2015

JLT Mobile Computers starts shipment of industry’s highest performance 10-inch vehicle-mount PC
JLT Mobile Computers, a Swedish developer and manufacturer of rugged computers for demanding environments with a US subsidiary in Tempe, AZ, announced that it is now shipping its VERSO+ 10 panel computer with an Intel "Haswell" Core processor option. It extends the performance of the VERSO rugged computers already shipping by providing even more computing power in a compact, robust form factor. [See JLT Mobile news release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Ada County Sheriff’s Office mobilizes new law enforcement capabilities with Motion tablets
Motion Computing announced that the Ada County Sheriff’s Office in Idaho has armed its more than 155 deputies with Motion F5 tablets, in-vehicle docks and desktop mounts to allow for more frequent and successful use of e-citations and other emerging criminal justice applications. Intended to replace older, end-of-life mobile computers, Motion’s technology provides both easy, out-of-vehicle use as well as increased data processing speed for faster situational analysis capabilities during incident response. [see Motion press release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 17, 2015

F4 Tech announces trade-in program
F4 Tech announced a trade-in program where until April 30th, customers can trade in a used F4 device and receive a $200 credit towards a new F4 Forge 912. New customers can trade in a used rugged handheld device from any other manufacturer and receive a $150 credit towards a new F4 Forge. [See media release] -- Posted Tuesday, March 17, 2015

AAEON sets sight on the small and slim display market
AAEON, a developer of industrial computing solutions, has released the IP65-rated ACD-110D industrial multi-touch display monitor. As the debut entry for the small and slim display market, the ACD-110D monitor features a scratch-proof 10.1" procap multi-touch screen with 1280 x 800 resolution in 16:9 aspect ratio. [See AAEON ACD-110D product page] -- Posted Monday, March 16, 2015

The PGA saving up to $3 Million with mobile solution from Intermec by Honeywell
The PGA, one of the world’s most prestigious golf associations with nearly 40 million viewers per tournament, recently upgraded from a costly third-party scoring system to a new solution by Florida-based Scan Read Technologies which specializes in barcode and RFID technology. The solution uses the Intermec by Honeywell CN50 and CK71 rugged mobile computers and could save upwards of $3 million over the course of four years. [See case study] -- Posted Friday, March 13, 2015

Logic Instrument announces IP68-sealed 6-inch Fieldbook F1
Logic Instrument announced the Fieldbook F1, an ultra rugged, IP68-sealed dual-SIM phablet. The elegant Android 4.4-based device has up to 16GB of storage plus up to 2TB via user accessible SD card, there are two cameras (2mp front and 13mp rear), 4G LTE, 802.11 WiFi, as well as RFID NFC. Weighing just 9.5 ounces and measuring 6.9 x 3.5 x 0.5 inches, the Fieldbook F1 has a full HD 1920 x 1080 6-inch multi-touch display, a 14 to 131F temperature range, and over 10 hours of battery life. -- Posted Thursday, March 12, 2015

VDC Research: Wearables primed for deep impact on enterprise
VDC Research reports that although the hype around wearable devices is relatively new, commercial adoption of wearable solutions dates back years, if not decades. Today, commercial use of wearable devices has the highest levels of penetration in manual-oriented business applications, particularly in warehousing and distribution center applications. Critical trends are discussed in VDC Research's new report, The Global Market for Wearable Devices. [Download Executive Brief] -- Posted Thursday, March 12, 2015

German faytech to offer OEM and bare bones versions of their panels in response to exchange rate issues
Currency exchange rates have been a problem for numerous industries in Europe. In response, faytech reports that the company will offer OEM and barebone versions of its standard touch screen systems and panel PCs. These may be displays only without the PC functionality, or be delivered without SSD or RAM, providing flexibility and potential cost savings for many clients. -- Posted Thursday, March 12, 2015

Xplore announces closing of public offering of 2,300,000 shares of common stock
Xplore announced the closing of an underwritten public offering of 2,300,000 shares of common stock, including full exercise of the underwriter’s over-allotment option, at an offering price of $6.00 per share. Xplore received gross proceeds, before deducting the underwriting discount and offering expenses, of $13.8 million. Roth Capital Partners acted as the sole manager for this offering. [See news release] -- Posted Wednesday, March 11, 2015

RAM Mount blog and newsletter
RAM Mounts has a new blog where they present and discuss all of their new products (check RAM Mount blog). Anyone interested in RAM's wide assortment of mounting hardware can also sign up for RAM's newsletter (sign up here). -- Posted Sunday, March 8, 2015

Full review: Cedar Tree Technologies CT7 rugged Android tablet
Cedar Tree Technologies' business model is to make available user-friendly, durable, and affordable field computing solutions, and that includes sourcing the best possible ruggedized Android technology at value prices. An example is the attractive 7-inch IP67-sealed Cedar CT7 tablet, going for just $899. RuggedPReview.com performed a detailed review and found an attractive value proposition. [See full review of the Cedar Tree Technologies CT7] -- Posted Saturday, March 7, 2015

AMREL releases super-thin, fully-rugged 15.6-inch laptop
The pressure for ever-thinner consumer tablets and smartphones has an impact even on rugged devices. Case in point: AMREL just released their new 15-inch fully rugged ROCKY RV11 laptop and it's just an inch and a quarter thick! And that's including the unit's protective corner bumpers. Powered by an ultra-low voltage "Ivy Bridge" Intel Core i7 processor, the IP65-sealed RV11's full HD (1920 x 1080 pixel) optically bonded anti-glare 15.6-inch display is large enough for serious work in the field. AMREL performs extensive MIL-STD-810G testing and military-grade options are available. [See AMREL ROCKY RV11 product page] -- Posted Saturday, March 7, 2015

Full review: Dell Latitude 12 Rugged Extreme
There are only a few fully rugged convertible laptops, and the Dell Latitude 12 RuggedExtreme is one of them. Equipped with a unique flip-hinge, the device can be turned from conventional laptop to tablet in a couple of seconds. The Dell convertible is based on ultra-low voltage Intel Haswell processors, has a bright 11.6-inch resistive multi-touch display that works with gloves and in the rain, and offers excellent outdoor view ability. There's ample onboard connectivity, and the machine is tough enough to be used just about anywhere. [See full review of the Dell Latitude 12 Rugged Extreme] -- Posted Friday, March 6, 2015

Next-gen Intel Atom chips will come in 3/5/7 varieties
Intel announced that starting with the next generation of Atom processors, chip branding will employ the same good/better/best 3/5/7 naming system as has been used in Intel's high-end Core processors for several years. There will be entry-level X3 (codenamed "SoFIA") 28nm chips that support both Windows and Android, and "Cherry Trail" 14nm Atom X5 and X7 processors on the higher end. The latter with include somewhat wing-clipped versions of the powerful Broadwell-class graphics. All are SoCs (Systems on Chip), and just as Core processors, the upcoming Atom X chips will come with various levels and degrees of a very large variety of technologies and Intel features. No word on whether this will be the end of using the Celeron and Pentium brand names, as is the case under the current Bay Trail series. [See Introducing Brand Levels for the Intel Atom Processor] -- Posted Monday, March 2, 2015

Wacom unveils the Cintiq 13HD tablet
Tablets are everywhere and some also have pens, but when maximum precision matters, a dedicated graphics tablet may be the answer. For that, Wacom announced the US$799 Cintiq 13HD touch, a 13-inch tablet that can display 16.7 million colors, has a perfect viewing angle, full 1920 x 1080 HD resolution, senses 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity as well as tilt recognition. Wacom's goal with this new Cintiq tablet is to provide a digital workflow that emulates drawing or painting on paper or canvas. [See Wacom Cintiq 13HD]
-- Posted Monday, March 2, 2015