The Di-400 from Diagnostic Instruments Ltd. is claimed to be the world's first fully customizable rugged "Auto-ID platform" for reading both barcodes and RFID tags. The device, which is based on a 400MHz Intel PXA255 XScale processor running Windows CE .NET, is expected to find applications in the asset management, inspection, maintenance, and homeland security markets, according to its maker.
The device features an all-weather quarter-VGA (320 x 240 pixel) color display with optional touch screen, and provides options for multiple types of wireless communications, including 802.11b, GPRS, and Bluetooth. Additionally, the unit is sealed to IP65 (dust and waterproof), and has a 2 meter multiple drop rating.
The Di-400 offers a choice of fully integrated RF readers (125kHz, 134.2kHz, 13.56MHz) in combination with a traditional barcode scanner, enabling maximum flexibility for data capture solutions along with the unique ability to integrate emerging RFID technologies as required, according to the company.
There are three off-the-shelf RFID options to choose from: low frequency, 125 kHz (Hitag, EM Marin); low frequency, 134.2 kHz (TI - Tiris LF); and high frequency, 13.56 MHz (ICode, MIFARE, TI). However, the company says that its unique customizable design means that other reader options could be incorporated, such as UHF (862 to 928 MHz). Other ID technologies such as a Smart /Contact ID card reader can also be combined using the internal PCMCIA/CF interface.
Diagnostic Instruments says its hardware platforms all have a full range of customizable features that "go far beyond simple cosmetic branding" by providing the capability to fully integrate additional technologies, thus creating a uniquely tailored mobile solution. Custom features include the option to integrate custom electronics, utilize high speed internal communications, configure the input/output panel, use the optional on-board DSP, and high performance data acquisition (DAQ) capabilities.
Key features and specifications of the Di-400 include:
- Processor -- 400 MHz Intel XScale PXA255
- Optional DSP -- Motorola DSP56307
- Memory -- 32 to 128 MB SDRAM; 32 to 128 MB Flash
- Display -- QVGA (320 x 240 pixel) color LCD, with or without touchscreen
- Expansion slots -- PCMCIA Type II; CompactFlash Type II; MMC/SD card
- Connectivity:
- IrDA and USB 1.1 standard
- Bluetooth v 1.0 optional
- 802.11b via CF or PCMCIA card
- GPRS, GSM, CDMA via PCMCIA card
- Keypad -- 23-key keypad, including alphanumeric keys, function keys and user programmable "rapid fire" keys.
- Indicators -- red, amber, and green programmable LED's
- Auto ID options:
- RFID -- 125 kHz, 134.2 kHz or 13.56 MHz (choose one)
- Barcode -- supports UPC/EAN, Code 128, Code 39, Code 93, I 2 of 5, Discrete 2 of 5, Codebar, MSI Plessey
- Operating System -- Windows CE .NET 4.2
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