September 2009

Silverlight central to Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R3
Microsoft announced the release to manufacturing (RTM) of Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R3, the next-generation platform of the componentized, real-time Windows Embedded CE operating system. The main thrust is that Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R3 adds the Silverlight for Windows Embedded user interface (UI) framework which is meant to enable a consistent experience across devices and PCs with Microsoft Office and PDF viewers. [Read Microsoft release on Windows Embedded CE 6.0] -- Posted Tuesday, September 22, 2009 by chb

Unitech introduces monitoring software for mobile computers
Unitech has introduced 12Monitor to control access to apps on Unitech mobile computers. 12Monitor puts the device in kiosk mode, allowing users to access certain applications, but not the entire operating system. This prevents users from changing settings, increases security and ensures productive and efficient use of the device. 12Monitor allows desktop customization with colors, icons and logos. Instead of a standard Windows desktop, the device displays up to 10 buttons labeled for the specific application the user is allowed to access. Customers can download 12Monitor for free from the Unitech website. -- Posted Monday, September 21, 2009 by chb

Nikon-Trimble introduces Windows CE-based Nivo
Nikon-Trimble Co., Ltd., a joint venture between Nikon and Trimble to address the global surveying and construction market, introduced the Nikon Nivo Series of compact, high-precision, Bluetooth-capable mechanical total stations. Meeting IP66 standards with water and dust-proof protection, the Nikon Nivo C Series, which has a Windows CE touchscreen interface, is rugged and can operate in virtually all types of weather. This is another example of interdisciplinary cooperation to provide crossover solutions that combine expertise in various fields. -- Posted Monday, September 21, 2009 by chb

Motorola introduces next-gen MC9500 rugged handheld
Building upon its successful MC9000 line of rugged handhelds, Motorola introduced the next-gen MC9500 built on state-of-the-art processing (Marvell PXA320), display (3.7-inch VGA), communication (3.5G, both major standards) and data capture technology (laser/imager/camera). The device also includes SiRFstarIII GPS, a smart full-shift battery, no fewer than five modular keyboard options, and it's tough as nails. [See description and specs of the Motorola MC9500] -- Posted Tuesday, September 15, 2009 by chb

Getac introduces ultra-rugged GPS PDA
Getac beefed up its handheld offerings by adding the ultra-rugged PS236 GPS handheld. Based on Windows Mobile 6.2 and the powerful 806MHz Marvell PXA310 processor, the PS236 has a 3-megapixel camera, an E-compass, altimeter, a full-VGA display, up to 12GB of storage, Bluetooth and Wifi, and optional HSDPA wireless WWAN. [See description and specs of the Getac PS236 GPS handheld] -- Posted Tuesday, September 8, 2009 by chb

Full review: Handheld US Nautiz X5
If you need a high-performance, top-of-the-line rugged handheld computer with integrated scanner, full VGA graphics, and 3G voice/data communication, there aren't many choices. The Nautiz X5, sold by Handheld US, is one of the few handhelds powered by the speedy 806MHz Marvell PXA320 processor. It has an integrated laser scanner, integrated SiRFstar III GPS, 3G comms, a very powerful battery, and a RFID version is available as well. [See full review of the Handheld US Nautiz X5] -- Posted Thursday, September 3, 2009 by chb

Motorola MT2000 pistol-grip scanner/computer
Motorola introduced the MT2000 series of mobile terminals that are meant to combine the simplicity of a scanner with the brainpower of a Windows CE-based and Marvell PXA270-powered mobile computer - all packaged in a handy, ergonomic package with the popular gun-style form factor. The idea here is to add smarts, and thus flexibility and power, to a conventional laser scanner. [See description and specs of the Motorola MT2000] -- Posted Thursday, September 3, 2009 by chb

New gen of Windows Phones with Windows Mobile 6.5
Microsoft announced that Windows phones will be widely available at retail stores worldwide on Oct. 6, 2009. The new phones will be the first to feature Windows Mobile 6.5, the latest version of Microsoft's mobile phone software, and will deliver new customer experiences through an improved, easy-to-use user interface, better browsing capabilities and access to valuable services, including Windows Marketplace for Mobile and Microsoft My Phone. [Read Microsoft press release] -- Posted Tuesday, September 1, 2009 by chb

Two Unitech products named best in the business
Unitech announced that two of its devices have been selected as “Best Channel Products” in Business Solutions Magazine’s annual survey. The magazine’s VAR subscribers ranked the PA600 mobile computer and MR650 fixed mount terminal among the industry’s top products. The Windows CE 5.0-based Unitech MR650 fixed mount terminal was voted a Best Channel Product for Workforce Management / Time and Attendance. Unitech’s compact and rugged PA600 won in the Handheld Mobile Computer category. -- Posted Tuesday, September 1, 2009 by chb