LXE has introduced a handheld data-collection computer running Windows CE 5.0 Professional, said to be the company's smallest, lightest, and most economical. The MX8 allows data input via keyboard, bar-code scanner, or voice recognition, according to the company.



The MX8 is based on a Marvell PXA270 processor clocked at 520 MHz, backed by 128 MB of DRAM and 128 MB of flash memory, the company said. Up to 1 GB of memory may be added via the device's mini-SD card.

As noted, the MX8 has a keyboard, featuring 32 backlit alphanumeric keys, plus five dedicated function keys and others that can perform user-selectable functions. It also offers a removable handle with two-finger trigger and "molded rubber grip for full-shift comfort," according to LXE.

An alternative method of capturing data into the MX8 is its optional "standard range" laser, capable of reading 1D and bar codes. The device is said to provide vibration feedback to confirm scan status, plus an LED that makes it easy to see where scanning is taking place.

Further, similar to its recently introduced HX3, the MX8 is said to feature LXE's "ToughTalk" technology, with advanced audio circuitry and noise-canceling techniques.

The unit is said to be certified to work with a variety of third-party voice-recognition programs. An included software development kit (SDK) supports application programming interfaces (APIs) from both LXE and Microsoft.

The MX8 includes a 2.8-inch QVGA (320 x 240) touchscreen display, according to LXE. It also features Bluetooth 2.0 and 802.11b/g wireless networking.

Features and specifications cited by LXE for the MX8 include:

• Processor -- Marvell PXA270, clocked at 520 MHz
  
• Memory -- 128 MB of DRAM; 128 MB of flash
  
• Display -- 2.8-inch QVGA (320 x 240) touchscreen display
  
• Keyboard -- 32 alphanumeric keys, 5 dedicated function keys, plus user-defined function keys
  
• Wireless interfaces:
  • 802.11b/g wireless LAN, with optimized internal diversity antenna
    
  • Bluetooth 2.0
• Scanner -- standard-range laser with 1D and 2D imagers (optional)
  
• Other I/O:
  • audio I/O via headset
    
  • USB via adapter cable
    
  • RS-232 via adapter cable
    
  • built-in speaker
• Temperature ratings:
  • Operating -- 14 to 122 deg. F (-10 to 50 deg. C)
    
  • Storage -- -4 to 158 deg. F (-20 to 70 deg. C)
• Battery life -- greater than 10 hours per change
  
• Dimensions -- 7.6 x 2.8 x 1.8 inches (193 x 71 x 46 mm)
  
• Weight -- 17 ounces (482 g) including battery, handle, and scanner
  

Available accessories include a vehicle cradle, a desktop cradle that charges a spare battery, a four-slot battery charger, and a holster, according to the company.

Although pricing was not disclosed, the MX8 appears to be available now. More information is available from the company's website, here.

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