(Click here for a larger view of sample MobileFrame client screens)

MobileFrame's software integrates a GUI Desktop, any-to-any relational client/server databases, intelligent client device rendering and autonomous network synchronization, according to the company. It's claimed even novice computer users can create complex mobile applications from scratch, or customize one of the company's pre-made application templates. Applications can then be deployed to any .NET enabled device, such as a Pocket PC, tablet, or laptop, without having to recompile code.


MobileFrame architecture
According to the company, version 4.2's new Remote Manager (seen below) provides precise control over all devices in the field. Administrators can install software updates and monitor parameters such as device power, memory utilization, messaging, alerts and synchronization status. It is also possible to lock down devices (including kiosk mode) and set up different device configurations for a single user or for groups of users.

System administrators can now remotely cause certain actions to occur on the client devices without intervention of the mobile worker, MobileFrame says. These include sending a popup message to the mobile worker (instant alert), compacting the database on the remote device (Pocket PC only), and logging mobile workers off the system.


MobileFrame Remote Manager
Other features of the new release are said to include:

• Dynamic Enterprise Data -- Administrators can now define dynamic enterprise data on a project, which automatically populates and refreshes on any pre-selected frequency
  
• Integrated Test Site -- Users can now test their mobile applications directly from the task authoring screen
  
• Enhanced Multi-Value Grid Support -- This feature allows users to repeat values in a row/column matrix of values, working in tandem with the multi-value grid workflow functions
  
• Integrated Email -- A new send email function has been introduced, allowing users to send email notifications as part of their server workflow, including authentication via LDAP/Active Directory

Availablity

MobileFrame offers three different versions of its software. A "Standard Suite" runs on a Microsoft SQL Server database and is said to contain all the functionality required to create and deploy sophisticated workflow for any customer's mobile workforce. A "Business Suite" supports more advanced workflow, support for additional peripheral devices, advanced calculator functions, and messaging/alerts. An "Enterprise Suite" includes Oracle, Sybase and DB2 database support, plus Java/Unix application server integration.

Pricing information was not provided, but the software appears to be available now.

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