News

  • Home > News

        Rugged data collection handheld runs all day

        Jonathan Angel | Date: Nov 6, 2007 | Comments: 1



        Intermec has introduced a rugged handheld computer that offers the choice of either Windows CE 5.0 or Windows Mobile 5.0. The ruggedized CK61 comes with "all day battery capacity" and optional barcode scanning, according to the company.




        The CK61 has a magnesium top cover and tough rubber bumpers at each corner. Sealed against water and dust to IP64 standards, the device can withstand repeated 6-foot drops, according to Intermec.


        Intermec's CK61 has a sealed case

        The device "provides significant flexibility to those customers who want to control the user experience" via its operating system choices, Intermec says. Both Windows Mobile 5.0 and Windows CE 5.0 are supported by "advanced software development tools" as well as Intermec's developer library.


        The CK61 provides a choice between large numeric keys and smaller alphanumeric keys

        The CK61 is available with either a 32-key keypad with large numeric keys, or a 58-key keypad with full alphanumeric keys (shown above, left and right respectively). Both feature LED backlighting.

        Other options include barcode scanning via either an integrated laser, 2D area imager, or 1D linear imager. Available snap-on adapters can be used for adding USB, a serial interface, or DEX/UCS (direct exchange / uniform communication standard) connectivity.

        Intermec lists the following key features and specifications for the CK61:
        • Processor -- Marvell PXA270, clocked at 520 MHz
        • Memory -- 64 MB SDRAM (128 MB optional); 128 MB flash
        • Display -- 3.8-inch, 16-bit color, 320 x 240 pixel touchscreen LCD
        • Keypad -- choice of 32-key layout with large numeric keys, or 58-key layout with full alphanumeric keys
        • Wireless:
          • built-in 802.11b/g WiFi (optional); compatible with Cisco extensions
          • WiFi security protocols -- WEP, WPA, 802.1x (EAP-TLS, TTLS, LEAP, PEAP), Microsoft VPN
          • Bluetooth
        • I/O interfaces:
          • USB version 1.1 (through communications/charging dock, or via snap-on adapter)
          • 10/100 Ethernet (through dock)
          • Snap-on adapter for DB9 interface to serial or printer peripherals
          • DEX/UCS connectivity (via snap-on)
        • Barcode scanning:
          • Optional integrated laser, 2D area imager, or 1D area imager
          • Supported codes -- Code 39, I 2 of 5, S 2 of 5, Matrix 2 of 5, Code 128, Code 93, Code 93i, Codabar, Codablock, MSI, Plessey, UPC, EAN/EAN128, ISBT128, Code 11, RSS, Telepen, PDF417, Micro-PDF417, Macro PDF417, Maxicode, Datamatrix, QR Code (2D symbologies require area imager)
        • Expansion -- SDIO card slot
        • Environmental:
          • IP64 dust and water sealing rating
          • Survives multiple 6 foot drops to steel or concrete
        • Operating temperature -- -20 to +50 deg. C
        • Storage temperature -- -20 to +70 deg. C
        • Dimensions -- 8.75 x 3.5 x 1.6 inches
        To help developers create custom applications targeting the CK61, Intermec provides software tools that include Embedded Visual C++ 4.0, the .NET Compact Framework (VB .NET and C#), and an SDK (software development kit) the supports device-specific features and barcode scanning.

        Optional accessories, according to the company, include a pistol grip; a four-slot battery charger, a single bay communications cradle with serial/USB/Ethernet; and a 4-slot communications dock with serial/Ethernet.

        Availability

        The CK61 scanning handheld appears to be available now. Pricing was not disclosed.



        Related stories: