| Scanning handheld does VoIP too |
Sep. 10, 2008
 Intermec has announced a Windows Mobile 6.1 handheld computer that targets warehouse operations, but also offers a "slim form factor appropriate for in-store settings." The CK3 features a 520MHz processor, 802.11a/b/g wireless, 1D/2D barcode scanning, VoIP communications, and an optional RFID reader, says Intermec.
(Click here for a larger view of Intermec's CK3)
We continue to marvel at the toughness of handheld computers, so often designed to withstand multiple 3-foot drops to concrete. Despite its relatively slim appearance, Intermec's CK3 copes with this type of abuse fine, and also meets IP54 standards for dust and water resistance, according to the company.
 To help warehouse staffers get a grip, the CK3 is available with the available scanning handle shown at the right. The unit's handle is also used to house an optional RFID scanner, which connects to the device via either USB or Bluetooth.
Standard scanning capabilities on the CK3 include 1D and 2D barcode scanner, with linear and area imagers. More unusually, the device also includes a speaker and a microphone. These audio capabilities make the CK3 compatible with both speech recognition and VoIP software, Intermec says.
The CK3 comes with a 3.5-inch QVGA (320 x 240) touchscreen display, plus a purchaser's choice of 51-key alphabetic or 38-key numeric keypads. It teams a 520MHz Marvell PXA270 processor with 128MB of RAM, 256MB of flash, and a microSD expansion slot.
As mentioned earlier, the handheld includes 802.11a/b/g wireless networking, with CCX (Cisco Compatible Extensions) certification. It also includes Bluetooth 2.0, though like many newer devices, apparently has no IrDA port.
Wired connectivity is provided by on-board USB host and client ports. Ethernet is also available, via the typical bevy of optional single- and quadruple-bay docking stations.
Finally, Intermec touts its SmartSystems software, said to allow easy device configuration and software installation via a local area network. The company also offers a terminal emulator called TE2000, and a web browser called iBrowse, capable of limiting access to pre-approved websites.
Features and specifications listed by Intermec for the CK3 include:- Processor -- Marvell PXA270, clocked at 520 MHz
- Memory -- 128MB RAM, 256MB flash
- Display -- 3.5-inch, 16-bit color, 320 x 240 pixel touchscreen LCD
- Keypad -- choice of 38-key layout with large numeric keys, or 51-key layout with full alphanumeric keys
- Wireless:
- built-in 802.11a/b/g WiFi, compatible with Cisco extensions
- WiFi security protocols -- WEP, WPA, 802.1x (EAP-TLS, TTLS, LEAP, PEAP), Microsoft VPN
- Bluetooth 2.0
- I/O interfaces:
- USB version host/client
- 10/100 Ethernet (through dock)
- Snap-on adapter for DB9 interface to serial or printer peripherals
- Barcode scanning:
- Integrated 1D linear imager and 2D area imager, with auto-focusing
- Supported codes -- Code 39, UPC/EAN, Code 128, Interleaved 2of5, Code 93, Codabar, Code 2of5, MSI, Plessey, Code 11, Matrix 2of5, Telepen, PDF417, Micro PDF417, Maxicode, Datamatrix, QR Code, RSS 14, RSS Limited, RSS Expanded, Codablock A, Codablock F, UCC Composite, Postnet, Planet, Australia Post, BPO (British Post 4-state), Dutch Post, Japan Post, Sweden Post, Canada Post, China Post (Matrix 2 of 5), Aztec, TLC39, Infomail, User Defined Multi-Code
- Expansion -- microSD card slot
- Environmental:
- IP64 dust and water sealing rating
- Survives multiple 5-foot drops to steel or concrete
- Operating temperature -- -10 to 50 deg. C
- Battery -- 2000mAh standard battery, or 5100mAh extended battery
- Dimensions -- 8.53 x 3.29 x 1.43 inches
- Weight -- 16 ounces with standard battery pack, 20 ounces with extended battery pack
Availability
The CK3 scanning handheld will begin shipping in October, according to Intermec. Pricing was not disclosed.
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