It offers a wide range of wireless communication and expansion card options.

(Click here for larger image)

Like its predecesors -- the 7535, Netbook Pro, and Workabout Pro -- the new model 7530 runs Windows CE on a 400 MHz Intel PXA255 processor.

According to Psion, the 7530 can operate at temperatures as low as -30 degrees C and features an IP67 dust and immersion rating In addition to Bluetooth and WiFi wireless options, the device also supports Psion's new "Digital" Narrowband radio which, the company says, increases battery life, maximizes signal clarity and persistence, and extends coverage range.

Key features and specifications of the Psion 7530 include:

• Processor -- 400 MHz Intel PXA255
  
• Memory -- 128 MB SDRAM, 64 MB Flash
  
• Display:
  • 320 x 240 (1/4 VGA) color TFT
    
  • 3.5 inch diagonal portrait mode
    
  • 256K displayable colors
    
  • Contrast control and automatic backlight
    
  • Sunlight readable (for outdoor use)
    
  • 5-wire touchscreen
• Keyboards:
  • Two formats available:
    • 37 key large button (10 function keys)
      
    • 63 key alpha (10 function keys)
  • Illuminated with EL backlight
    
  • Ergonomic ambidextrous one-hand
    operation with dual Enter keys
    
  • Dedicated function keys
    
  • Hard-capped keys with improved tactile
    response
• Three internal expansion slots:
  • MMC/SDIO slot
    
  • Type II CompactFlash slot
    
  • Type III Extended PC Card slot
• Wireless options:
  • 802.11b CompactFlash card
    
  • GSM/GPRS PC card
    
  • NextGen Narrowband 400-500 MHz PC card
    
  • Bluetooth SDIO card
• Barcode scanner:
  • Internal 1.3 mg pixel CMOS image capture scan engine
    
  • Wide angle, long and extra-long range, and fuzzy.
    
  • Extended range logic internal scan engine
    
  • Supports decoded and undecoded tethered scanners
• RFID capability:
  • Internal combo laser scanner / RFID engine, multi-protocol @ HF, LF
    
  • Tethered reader/writer, multi-protocol support @ 900MHz
• Operating system -- Windows CE
  
• Programming environment:
  • HTML, XML
    
  • CE .NET SDK
    
  • Java,Visual C++
    
  • Standard protocol APIs -- Windows sockets (WinCE)

The 7530 is expected to be available during Q4 of this year.

---

Related stories:

• Customizable industrial handheld runs Windows CE
  
• Industrial handheld gets barcode and RFID input
  
• CE .NET powers XScale-based "crossover" handheld
  
• CE .NET handheld computer boasts rugged specs
  
• Rugged Windows CE handheld features CMOS imager
  
• Device profile: Allegro CX field PC
  
• Device Profile: Sammi Smart-eCompact handheld data terminal
  
• Device Profile: Symbol MC9000-K and MC9000-S rugged handhelds
  
• Device Profile: Di-400 ruggedized handheld barcode and RFID reader
  
• Device profile: Itronix GoBook Q-200 rugged handheld