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However, the new Omnii XT10 (right) is touted as having the most modular architecture yet, with swappable features that include its keyboard, 1D/2D scanners, camera, pistol grip, GPS expansion module, and push-to-talk speaker/microphone. Psion claims that with dozens of options and modules, the XT10 offers over ten thousand final configurations.
Psion has also launched a website, www.ingenuityworking.com, it describes as offering "an entirely new way of delivering mobile products. The site is designed to facilitate development of third-party modules for the handheld, and also provides hardware- and software-related training videos (including those embedded later in this story), according to the company.
According to Psion, the Omnii XT10 is available with a 3.7-inch, VGA-resolution display in two different versions. A "high-visibility" model is transflective, with a 165-nit brightness rating, while an "extreme duty" version has a slightly thicker bezel, cutting the brightness rating to 160-nit while offering improved impact resistance and operation down to -4 deg. F (-20 deg. C).
Keyboards, meanwhile, are offered in full alphanumeric (top right), numeric (middle right), or modified alphanumeric (lower right) versions, all said to be field-replaceable. Modularity apparently hasn't weakened the XT10, since the device is said to withstand drops from 6.5 feet (2 meters), claimed to be "the best in the industry," and to meet IP65 standards for sealing against liquids and dust.
Five different barcode scanner options are available, including standard-, long-, and auto-range lasers, as well as 1D and 2D imagers. Other options include a three megapixel camera with autofocus, plus an push-to-talk speaker (even without the latter, the XT10 is VoIP-ready thanks to an integrated microphone and receiver, Psion says).
According to Psion, the XT10 has 802.11b/g wireless networking, Bluetooth 2.0 personal area networking, and an optional GPS receiver based on the popular SiRF starIII chipset. Offering a microSD slot, the handheld also may be fitted with RS232, USB host, and GPIO interfaces, the company adds.
The XT10 also has a 5000mAh battery that's touted as the "most powerful ... in its class," though we didn't see a specification for how long it holds out. Psion says included battery grading and management tools "take the guesswork out of managing batteries."
Psion says the Omnii XT10 is powered by a 600MHz OMAP3 processor (model unspecified, but since no graphics acceleration is claimed, it may be the basic OMAP3503), backed by 256MB of RAM and 512MB of flash storage. The operating system is Windows CE 6.0, to which the company says it has added a Microsoft Silverlight-based, customizable PsionVU interface (left). IT departments can use this to lock down the device and customize its appearance, the company says.
Finally, Psion offers a bevy of accessories that include a desktop docking station (USB, Ethernet, and RS232 versions are all offered), chainable quad docking stations, and vehicle cradles. An available pistol grip for the Omnii XT10 is robust yet may be removed in the field with simple screws, the company adds.
Features and specifications listed by Psion for the Omnii XT10 include:
Further information
Psion did not cite pricing or an on-sale date for the Omnii XT10. More information may be found on the company's product page for the device, here, and on www.ingenuityworking.com.
