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        Device Profile: PSC 4620 ruggedized vehicle mount computer

        Doug | Date: May 18, 2004 | Comments: 1


        The Falcon 4620 is a ruggedized vehicle-mount computer intended for use in harsh industrial and field environments, including temperatures as low as -30 degrees C. According to maker PSC Inc., the device is based on an 800 MHz Via C3 processor running Microsoft's Windows XP Embedded operating system, and it targets applications in retail, warehousing, and supply chain management.



        The unit boasts a 12.1-inch TFT color touchscreen display with SVGA resolution, yet its compact design is similar in size to many 10-inch models, the company claims.

        Standard memory is 128 MB RAM, with 512 MB available as an option. A 20 GB shock-mounted hard disk provides storage for the operating system and applications. For even harsher environments, a 2 GB Flash drive is available.

        PSC says the device's "radio independent support" offers a choice among several 2.4Ghz 802.11b radios including Cisco Aironet, Lucent/Proxim Orinoco, and Symbol Spectrum24 HR. The unit has a built-in antenna or may connect to an external antenna. Input/output interface ports are provided for RS-232, Ethernet, USB, keyboard, and mouse.

        The vehicle base unit (shown at right) includes a low-profile, fully adjustable mounting bracket. A keyboard bracket can be attached directly to the base bracket, conserving valuable space. The optional scanner attachment allows a PSC PowerScan RF laser to be mounted to either side of the vehicle computer without requiring an external power connection.

        Environmentally, the 4620 operates over the range of -20 degrees C to +50 degrees C, with intermittent operation down to -30 degrees C. It has an IP65 sealing rating and meets Mil Specs for shock and vibration.

        Key features and specifications include:
        • Processor -- 800 MHz Via C3
        • Memory -- 128 MB RAM standard, up to 512 MB available. 256 KB Flash for BIOS
        • Storage -- 20 GB shock mounted IDE drive standard. 2 GB Flash disk optional.
        • Display -- 12.1 inch diagonal color TFT, 800x600 resolution, resistive touchscreen, 32 MB video RAM.
        • Card slots -- 2 Type II or 1 Type III PCMCIA
        • Comm. Ports:
          • 2 RS-232C serial, 12V DC on pin 9
          • 1 10/100 Ethernet, RJ45
          • 2 USB 1.1 A, supports USB floppy or CD boot
          • PS/2 mouse/keyboard port
        • Wireless -- Requires certified Type II PC card format, 2.4Ghz spread spectrum 802.11b. Radios supported:
          • Cisco Aironet 802.11b
          • Lucent/Proxim Orinoco 802.11b
          • Symbol Spectrum24 HR
        • Operating System -- Windows XP Embedded standard; XP Professional and Windows 2000 available as options.

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