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        Windows CE handheld helps with farm chores

        Jonathan Angel | Date: Jun 28, 2007 | Comments: 1


        Farm Works Software has introduced a Windows CE-powered handheld computer designed for farming applications including mapping, soil sampling, and field scouting. The Titan RH includes a built-in GPS receiver that employs WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) for greater accuracy, according to the company.




        (Click here for larger image of the Titan RH)

        The device features a 3.5-inch "daylight-readable" touch-screen, and can be used in all types of weather, from ice and snow to extreme heat, according to the company. It reportedly also conforms to IP67 and MIL 810 standards for impact resistance.

        Packaged with an external antenna (required for WAAS support), the Titan RH can also be used for in-cab applications.

        The unit's three serial ports allow connection of additional GPS receivers (for better accuracy), a variable rate controller, or other sensory devices. Also sold separately is the company's Site Mate and Guide Mate software. These are intended to help create maps of field boundaries, weed areas, tile lines, spray paths, and soil sample locations. The company says that with the help of third-party hardware from Raven, the Titan RH can steer a tractor or other farm equipment in any weather conditions.

        Technical specifications listed by Farm Works Software for the Titan RH include the following:
        • Processor -- Intel XScale, clocked at 416MHz
        • Memory -- 64MB RAM; 64MB flash ("typical")
        • Display -- 3.5-inch TFT QVGA (320 x 240) "sunlight readable" touchscreen LCD
        • Illuminated keypad
        • Built-in microphone and speaker
        • Internal wireless functions:
          • GPS receiver with WAAS support
          • Bluetooth Class 1 Ver 1.2
          • Option: 802.11b WiFi
        • Other I/O ports (with sealed connectors):
          • USB Host/Client
          • 3 x RS232 serial ports
        • Expansion -- SD and CompactFlash card slots (sealed cover)
        • Dimensions -- 8.0 x 3.5 x 1.7
        • Weight -- 1.25 lbs, with battery
        • Operating Temperature -- -4 to 140 deg. F (-20 to 60 deg. C)
        • Battery -- 10.5 watt-hour rechargeable battery, 5 hours operation (hot-swappable with 2 minutes "ride-through" without losing data)
        The Titan RH runs Windows CE 5.0 as its operating system, and it includes Windows Media Player, an "Internet Explorer type" browser, and software for an on-screen keyboard, among other applications and utilities, according to the company. Support for Microsoft's .NET Compact Framework, JavaScript, and VB scripting languages is also provided, facilitating custom application development.

        Availability

        The Titan RH is available now, with a suggested retail price of $1,700.


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