| Rugged handheld scans barcodes from 50 feet |
Jan. 30, 2008
 Intermec has announced a rugged handheld computer that comes with either Windows CE 5.0 or Windows Mobile 5.0. The CK61ex features "all day battery capacity," and "integrated near-far imaging technology" claimed to let it read barcodes at ranges from six inches to 50 feet.
The CK61ex uses the same auto-focus scan engine that debuted on Intermec's CK31ex. The engine can read and decode 1D and 2D barcodes, as well as composite barcodes and postal codes. It works both near and far, and in any orientation, saving workers from having to twist their wrists, Intermec says. Expensive retro-reflective label media are not required, nor are good lighting or even a full, unobstructed view of the barcode. Furthermore, the engine can serve as a digital camera, capturing images suitable for proof of delivery and documentation of damaged, expired, or unsealed goods.
 
Intermec's CK61ex has a sealed case
The CK61ex 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. It is also available in a "non-incendive" option (UL Division 2, Class I/II/III) for use in hazardous environments.
The CK61ex provides a choice between large numeric keys and smaller alphanumeric keys
The CK61ex 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.
Optional hardware and software
Options for the CK61ex include:- Snap-on adapters that can be used for adding USB, a serial interface, or DEX/UCS (direct exchange / uniform communication standard) connectivity
- Four-slot battery charger
- Single bay communications cradle with serial/USB/Ethernet
- Four-slot communications dock with serial/Ethernet
- IP30 RFID reader handle, a pistol grip with a built-in RFID reader (869MHz or 915MHz frequency bands) that communicates with the handheld via Bluetooth
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" including Embedded Visual C++ 4.0, the .NET Compact Framework (VB .NET and C#), and an SDK (software development kit) that supports device-specific features and barcode scanning.
The company lists the following key features and specifications for the CK61ex:- Processor -- Marvell PXA270, clocked at 520MHz
- Memory -- 64MB SDRAM (128MB optional); 128MB 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)
- 2D near-far, auto-focusing area imager
- Supported codes -- Australian Post, Aztec, BPO, Codabar, Codablock A and F, Code 11, Code 39, Code 93/93i, Code 128, ISBT 128, EAN 128, DataMatrix, Dutch Post, Canada Post, EAN.UCC composite, Interleaved 2 of 5, Japan Post, Matrix 2 of 5, MaxiCode, MSI Code, PDF417/MicroPDF417/ MacroPDF417 (unbuffered mode), Planet, Plessey, Postnet, QR Code, RSS, Industrial and Standard 2 of 5, Telepen, TLC39, UPC/EAN/ISBN/ISSN/ISMN/GTIN
- 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
- Weight -- 24.8 ounces
Availability
The CK61ex scanning handheld appears to be available now. Pricing was not disclosed.
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