| Device profile: Symbol PDT 8146 "Imaging Computer" |
(May 22, 2003)
Symbol Technologies introduced a new rugged handheld which includes advanced imaging capabilities, voice-over Wi-Fi communications, and wireless LAN functions. Symbol said its new PDT 8146 "Imaging Computer" is ideal for "data capture, data management, and communications applications in transportation and logistics, parcel and post, public safety, field sales and service, and in-store retail environments. The device is powered by a 400 MHz Intel PXS255 XScale processor running Microsoft's Pocket PC software platform.
 The PDT 8146 includes a tiny new Symbol-developed bar code imaging system which is said to incorporate intelligent focus, laser aiming guidance, and self-illumination functions that reads one and two-dimensional bar code symbols omni-directionally.
Another interesting capability is that of "voice-over Wi-Fi," which allows direct voice communications between mobile devices through "walkie-talkie" and pager functionality, as well as private peer-to-peer phone calling. The voice-over Wi-Fi function is facilitated by a DSP (digital signal processor), which executes voice-related functions without requiring CPU bandwidth from the XScale processor, Symbol said. Hardware-based G.729A audio compression and decompression are also included, to maximize wireless LAN bandwidth efficiency by supporting multiple, simultaneous calls per Access Point while minimizing network traffic.
Symbol said the device is currently being supplied to Schenker, a Germany-based integrated logistics provider offering land transport, air and sea freight as well as comprehensive logistics solutions, for tracking and managing delivery logistics. Schenker has 1,100 locations worldwide.
Summary of key features and specifications . . . - CPU: Intel XScale PXA-255, 400 MHz CPU clock rate
- Memory: 64MB RAM; 64MB Flash
- Software:
- Operating system: Microsoft Pocket PC 2002 Premium Edition
- Application environment fully compatible with Microsoft SDK for Pocket PCs
- Symbol SDK available to support bar code scanning
- Display: 3.5 in., 1/4 VGA (240x320) color LCD with backlight
- User input: keyboard (backlit) and touchscreen
- Input/output ports: IrDA 1.1; RS-232
- Integrated imaging engine: omnidirectional 1D and 2D imaging engine w/still image capture
- Wireless options:
- 802.11b (Wi-Fi)
- 3rd-party CompactFlash Bluetooth module
- Expansion: user-accessable CompactFlash slot
- Environmental specs: conforms to standardized drop, tumble, dust/rain sealing, ESD, EMI/RFI specs
- Battery: 3.7V, 1950 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion
- Size: 8.5 x 3.7 x 1.8 in.
- Weight: 16.5 oz (includes battery)
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