Motorola announced a handheld computer that includes an RFID reader and "the industry's first dual-axis antenna." The MC3090-Z runs Windows Mobile 6.1 on a 520MHz PXA270 processor, has a three-inch touchscreen display, is available with Bluetooth and a 1D barcode scanner, and includes 802.11a/b/g wireless networking.

According to Motorola, the MC3090-Z (right) is related to its previous MC3000, designed by Symbol Technologies before that company was acquired by Motorola in 2006. The MC3000 design was recently revamped as the MC3100, stepping up to a 624MHz PXA320 CPU, but the MC3090-Z retains the original 520MHz PXA270.

The MC3090-Z's key feature is its RFID reader -- said to have a power output of 1 Watt, and to work over frequencies from 902 to 928MHz -- and dual-axis antenna. According to Motorola, enterprises have previously been forced to choose between two types of antennas: linear polarization for a longer read range or circular polarization for wider coverage. The MC3090-Z combines the advantages of these two technologies by offering a patented, orientation-insensitive antenna, the company says.

While we didn't see a specification for the MC3090-Z's maximum read range, Motorola claims the device is the industry's first RFID reader to offer "pinpoint locationing technology." As the device moves closer to a specific item, a beep tone increases in frequency and volume, while a sliding graphical bar increases in size, the company says.

Unlike the standard MC3000 or MC3100, the MC3090-Z is only available in a pistol grip configuration (like the MC3090), since the antenna hangs down from the front of the unit. In this, the device resembles many of its competitors, such as the Idtronic UHF Gun or Nordic ID PL3000 Cross Dipole, for example.

According to Motorola, the MC3090-Z has a three-inch touchscreen with 320 x 320 pixel resolution, plus a 48-key alphanumeric keypad. The device sports a RS232 port plus USB host and client ports, and is available with an optional 1D barcode scanner, the company adds.

Motorola describes the MC3090-Z as "designed for the carpeted space" but says that, nonetheless, the device can not only survive a four-foot drop, but also continued to operate reliably after 1,000 1.64-foot drops, inflicted via a tumble drum. IP54 sealing enables the device to withstand dusty environments, spills, and the routine wipedowns required in healthcare and other challenging environments, the company adds.

As mentioned earlier in this story, the MC3090-Z uses a 520MHz PXA270 processor, teamed with 128MB of RAM and 1GB of flash storage. Described as "VoIP-ready," the device includes 802.11a/b/g wireless networking, and Bluetooth is an available option. WAN connectivity is not promised at this point, but Motorola appears to be preparing for that future eventuality by shipping the MC3090-Z with Windows Mobile 6.1 rather than Windows CE.

Features and specifications listed by Motorola for the MC3090-Z include the following:

• Processor -- Marvell PXA270 clocked at 520MHz
• Memory -- 128MB of RAM and 1GB of flash storage
• Display -- Three-inch screen with 320 x 320 pixel resolution
• Keyboard -- 48-key alphanumeric
• Imaging -- 1D scanner (optional)
• Wireless:
  • LAN -- 802.11a/b/g
  • PAN -- Bluetooth 2.1 (optional)
  • RFID reader:
    • Dual-axis antenna
    • 1 Watt ERP
    • 902 to 928MHz frequency range
• Other I/O:
  • USB 1.1 host/client
  • RS232
  • I/O connector for connection to optional Ethernet/USB/charging cradles
• Battery -- 4400 mAh battery; life n/s
• Operating temperature -- 14 to 122 deg. F (-10 to 50 deg. C)
• Dimensions -- 7.5 x 6.4 x 4.7 inches (19.34 x 16.26 x 11.94cm)
• Weight -- 22.93 ounces (650g)

Mike Poldino, vice president and general manager of RFID for Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions, stated, "Motorola continues to deliver on its promise to design new technologies that meet the specific needs of customers as they look to integrate RFID solutions into their existing business environments. With the introduction of the MC3090-Z RFID reader, Motorola is raising the bar in innovation by offering the industry’s only high-accuracy, high-performance solution in a small form factor."

Further information

According to Motorola, the MC3090-Z will first be available in North America during the first quarter of 2010, with a global rollout following "throughout the year." More information on the device may be found on the company's website, here.

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