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        In-cab computer gets GPS, cellular modem

        Jonathan Angel | Date: Mar 11, 2011 | Comments: 1


        QSI says it's now shipping a compact, in-cab Windows CE computer targeting fleet management, dispatching, and mapping applications. The Treq-M4x includes a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, a 624MHz processor, an optional magnetic card reader, plus newly added GPS and GSM cellular functionality, the company says.

        QSI originally introduced its Treq-M4 in 2009, at which point we pointed out that the 4.3-inch device lacked the integrated GPS receiver and GSM/GRPS cellular model found in the Treq-DX (a version of the seven-inch Treq-L that first appeared in 2008). That has now been rectified, since the Treq-M4x adds these wireless capabilities and also gains a CANbus interface, according to the company.

        QSI's Treq-M4x
        (Click to enlarge)

        While the Treq-M4x sports a full Windows CE 6.0 desktop, the vehicle-mount computer is obviously designed for applications that require relatively little user input. There's a 4.3-inch touchscreen display with 480 x 272 pixel resolution and LED backlighting, but the device includes just four illuminated function keys. Of course, those who need to use a keyboard when their vehicle is parked could connect one via USB.

        QSI says the Treq-M4x includes three USB ports and a 10/100 Ethernet port. It also has two serial ports (one RS232, one RS232/422), while Bluetooth 2.0 and a three-track magnetic card reader are both said to be optionally available.
        According to QSI, the Treq-M4x uses a 624MHz Marvell PXA300 processor, with 256MB of RAM and 4GB of flash storage. It can be powered by input voltages ranging from 6VDC to 32VDC, and resists shocks of up to 40G on any axis with a duration of 11 milliseconds, the company adds.

        Features and specifications listed by QSI for the Treq-M4x include the following:

        • Processor -- 624MHz Marvell PXA300
        • Memory -- 256MB of RAM and 4GB of flash storage
        • Display -- 4.3-inch touchscreen display with 480 x 272 pixel resolution and 600-nit brightness rating
        • Keys -- Four illuminated function keys
        • Networking -- 10/100 Ethernet
        • Wireless:
          • GPS receiver
          • GSM/GRPS cellular modem
          • Bluetooth 2.0 (optional)
        • Other I/O:
          • 3 x USB 2.0
          • 1 x RS232
          • 1 x RS232/422
          • J1708/J1939 (CANbus) interface
          • 3.5mm headphone jack
          • mono speaker
          • magnetic stripe reader (optional)
        • Dimensions -- 6.57 x 3.54 x 1.45 inches (167 x 90 x 37mm)
        • Weight -- 1.01 pounds (460g)
        • Operating temperature -- -4 to 158 deg. F (-20 to 70 deg. C)
        Further information

        QSI did not release pricing for the Treq-M4x, but said orders are now being accepted. More information may be found on the Treq-M4x product page.

        Jonathan Angel can be followed at www.twitter.com/gadgetsense.

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