| Rugged computer runs Windows XP Embedded |
Apr. 16, 2007
 Glacier Computer has introduced a rugged industrial computer family specifically targeted at fixed and mobile applications in harsh environments, such as manufacturing and warehousing plants. The Everest series computers have an IP64 dust/moisture protection rating, and are currently available with Windows XP Embedded, according to the company.
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The Everest family is based on a 600 MHz Celeron or 1.4 GHz Pentium M processor, and can be equipped with up to 1 GB of DDR SDRAM. The units ship with a choice of either a 10.4- or 12.1-inch, SVGA (800 x 600-pixel) LCD screen with 5-wire resistive touchscreen, and can be fitted with an optional display heater and sunlight-readable display. The built-in 6-60 VDC power supply includes an intelligent UPS (uninterruptable power supply) function, according to the company.
For operating system and data storage, the systems use a shock-protected 2.5-inch hard drive, available in capacities of 40 GB and higher. Peripheral interfaces include three USB 2.0 ports, two serial ports, an Ethernet LAN port, audio I/O, and PS/2 keyboard/mouse ports, according to the company. A combination of PCMCIA and mini PCI expansion slots can be populated with a range of options, including Bluetooth, 802.11a/b/g WiFi, WAN, and GPS.
A set of three programmable function buttons on the front bezel of the computer provides what the company describes as "the unique ability to program frequently used tools into one-touch availability, thereby extending the life of the touchscreen." A group of status LEDs, along with a custom diagnostic and configuration utility, enables real-time monitoring of processor temperature and other critical system statistics, along with "flight recorder like" data logging.
 The Everest systems incorporate a special clamp to prevent accidental disconnection of a keyboard or bar code scanner used in the data collection process, due to shock, vibration, or other factors. According to the company, this eliminates the need to reboot the unit in order for an inadvertently disconnected peripheral to be recognized as a PS/2 device.
Currently available operating systems include Windows XP Embedded, XP Pro, and Vista, and Linux will be available soon, the company said.
Availability
The Everest is available immediately with a 12.1-inch LCD; the 10.4-inch LCD model will be available in 30 days. Pricing ranges between $2900 and $4200, depending on screen size, processor, and other options, the company says.
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