Compact Windows CE-powered rugged PDA with laser scanner or imager
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

Metrologic Instruments, headquartered in Blackwood, New Jersey, was founded in 1968. The company is a pioneer in the data-capture industry and a leading vertically-integrated manufacturer of advanced bar code scanners. Through its Omniplanar subsidiary and NOVOdisplay business unit, the company provides advanced image processing software and innovative display solutions as well. As of early 2008, Metrologic sells its products in over 110 countries, has almost 1,500 employees in sales, service and distribution offices located throughout the Americas, Europe, Australia and Asia.

In January of 2008, Metrologic introduced the SP5700 OptimusPDA. The Optimus is Metrologic's first Windows CE-powered handheld computer with integrated scanner. Based on the 520MHz version of the Marvel PXA270 processor, the Optimus runs Windows CE 5.0. Measuring just 3.00 x 7.00 x 1.22 inches and weighing 8.5 ounces including the integrated scanner or imager, the SP5700 is remarkably compact for a rugged device. It is sealed to IP54 specifications (protected against dust, and protected against water spray from all directions), can survive 5-foot drops to concrete, and operate in a wide temperature range from -4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. The SP5700 can be equipped with Bluetooth, WiFi, GSM/GPRS and apparently it also contains a R-UIM (Removable User Identity Module) card slot which is like a SIM slot for CDMA and physically compatible with GSM/GPRS SIMs. A MiniSD slot provides storage extension to the 128MB od RAM and 128MB of Flash ROM. For scanning, there is a choice or a laser scanner or an imager, and an optional 2-megapixel CMOS camera is also available.

The display is a standard 3.5-inch 240x320 pixel LCD with touch screen. Data entry is made easy through a backlit alphanumeric keypad.

The OptimusPDA is packaged in kits that include the essential accessories necessary for operation right out of the box. Metrologic also provides users with a SDK for creating custom Windows CE 5.0 applications.

On July 2nd, 2008, Honeywell announced it had completed the acquisition of Metrologic Instruments, Inc., a leading manufacturer of laser and mobile imaging and remote scanning, for approximately $720 million. Metrologic will be part of Honeywell Imaging & Mobility, a line of business within Honeywell Security. Honeywell Imaging & Mobility also includes Hand Held Products, a manufacturer of imaging and mobility solutions, acquired by Honeywell in December of 2007