Itronix adds new rugged Tablet PC

- Gary Thayer, Editor

May 31, 2005 -- (MobileVillage) -- Itronix today introduced the Duo-Touch Tablet PC, its latest wireless, rugged slate tablet PC targeted for use by field workers. The Duo-Touch runs Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition operating system.

The Duo-Touch is based on the Intel Pentium M processor 733 and the Mobile Intel 915GM Express Chipset, making it faster than Itronix' original GoBook Tablet PC. Other feature updates include more memory, a brighter display, and a more rugged case. The name "Duo-Touch" refers to the new dual-mode touch panel, which provides both a passive touch screen and standard digitizer, or "active," touch screen, says Itronix.

Other features include:

• a memory boost and better video processing power with up to 1280MB of DDR SDRAM and 128MB of shared video RAM;
• optional integrated GPS receiver, enabling real-time location of field personnel and assets, making the Duo-Touch an even more efficient tool for field personnel;
• capability to integrate up to four radios into the same unit (WWAN, WLAN Bluetooth, and GPS);
• “dual-mode” touch panel, which provides a passive touch screen to users in addition to the standard digitizer touch screen;
• brighter, easier-to-view display, especially in outdoor environments;
• an all magnesium case
• an external WWAN antenna switch for improved radio performance in vehicles;
• optional hard-drive heater that extends cold start-up conditions as low as –20 degrees Celsius.

The Duo-Touch weighs in at 3.9 pounds. As with the original GoBook Tablet PC, it can weather extreme climate changes such as rain, snow, wind, dust, vibration, shock and chemical exposure, and temperatures ranging from -20 to 60 degrees C (-4 to 140 F), according to Itronix.

Like the Itronix GoBook III wireless laptop, launched in September 2004, the Duo-Touch has been designed with integrated wireless communications that can concurrently support up to three different wireless networks, including 802.11b/g (wireless LAN), Bluetooth, and wireless WAN technologies such as 1x EVDO (with EVDO approval anticipated in July) and GPRS/EDGE.

The Duo-Touch also supports an (optional) integrated 12-channel GPS receiver (featuring the same quadrifilar Helix antenna used on the GoBook III) to enable real-time, accurate location capture for applications such as automated vehicle location (AVL), vehicle routing and mapping, and field asset management. Combined with Itronix's MobilityXE wireless roaming mobility software, the receiver enables a mobile worker to maintain uninterrupted wireless connectivity and communication while roaming between networks in mobile applications, according to Itronix.

The Duo-Touch's Common Radio Module Architecture enables users to upgrade to new wireless technologies as they become available. The Duo-Touch is also backward compatible with most GoBook Tablet PC peripherals and accessories, including the desk mount and vehicle cradles.

The unit has a limited three-year warranty and retails for US $3,195. All Itronix products are available through strategic Itronix partners and directly through Itronix.

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