According to DRS, the X10gx (right) includes an undisclosed chipset -- likely the GS45 northbridge and ICH9M southbridge -- plus from 2GB to 4GB of DDR3 memory. Mass storage is provided via SSDs, offered in 64GB, 80GB, or 160GB versions.

The device's raison d'tre is durability, hence not only the SSDs but also a magnesium-alloy case. DRS says the device meets the IP67 standard for sealing against liquids, meaning that it can survive immersion as well as cleaning with chemical solvents.

DRS also touts its "exclusive ShutOut technology," via which the device's I/O ports are said to be sealed without the use of covers. As if to celebrate that fact, the company has given the X10gx more interfaces than usual for this type of product: three USB 2.0 ports, a serial port, an Ethernet interface, an HDMI output, a docking connector, and an audio output.

Featuring what DRS terms an "open source" FlexSpace expansion bay, the X10gx also has a ExpressCard 34/54 slot and an SDHC reader, says DRS. A Type I/II PCMCIA slot is optionally available, the company adds.

According to DRS, the X10Gx has a 10.4-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels and an anti-glare, anti-relective surface. The system is said to be available with either a resistive touchscreen and active digitizer, or in a digitizer-only configuration that must be operated using a pen.

Further equipped with a fingerprint scanner, the X10Gx has three function keys that, via an available shift key, may be programmed for six different actions. The tablet also has a two-megapixel camera with barcode reading capability, DRS says.

Communications capabilities are said to include not only Ethernet, but also 802.11a/b/g wireless networking. Also listed is an optional Qualcomm Gobi 2000 module, which provides access to worldwide cellular networks as well as a GPS receiver.

According to DRS, the X10Gx, which survives four-foot drops, has two hot-swappable 2400mAh battery packs. The company does not say how long these last, however.

Features and specifications listed by DRS for the Armor X10Gx include the following:

• Processor -- Intel Core 2 Duo SU9300 clocked at 1.2GHz
  
• Chipset -- n/s, but likely GS45 northbridge and ICH9M southbridge
• Memory -- up to 4GB of DDR3 memory
  
• Storage -- SSDs in 64GB, 80GB, or 160GB sizes
  
• Expansion:
  • Docking connector
    
  • Express Card 34/54 slot
    
  • SDHC reader
  • Type I/II PCMCIA slot (optional)
• Display -- 10.4 inch touchscreen display with 1024 x 768 resolution, available in version with active digitizer and resistive touch, or active digitizer only
  
• Camera -- 2.0 megapixel, with barcode reading capability
  
• Keys -- three function keys, shift key, secure action sequence, fingerprint scanner
  
• Networking:
  LAN --Ethernet port
  
  • LAN - 802.11a/b/g/n
    
  • PAN -- Bluetooth 2.0
    
  • WAN -- HSPA or EVDO cellular via Gobi module (optional)
• Other I/O:
  • 1 x HDMI
    
  • 3 x USB 2.0
    
  • audio out
    
  • 1 x RS232
• Battery -- Dual hot-swappable 2400mAh batteries
  
• Operating temperature -- -4 to 140 deg. F (-20 to 60 deg. C)
  
• Dimensions -- 11.4 x 8.6 x 1.8 inches
  
• Weight -- 4.7 pounds with handle and one battery

Pricing was not cited, but the Armor X10gx appears to be available now, with Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Business editions. More information may be found on the company's website, here.

A detailed review of the predecessor Armor X10 may be found on the Rugged PC Review website, here.

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