As many as 36 percent of commercial-grade PDAs fail when used in harsh environments, according to a recent VDC study. That means companies are looking for small mobile computers that can withstand the rigors of store, field and industrial operations. Intermec Technology’s new CN2 mobile computer, small and lightweight enough to be carried in a shirt pocket, fits the bill.
The CN2 is a rugged, powerful and reliable mobile data collection computer for tough mobile computing applications, with an ergonomic design that provides easy, single-handed operation in a form factor small enough to carry it almost anywhere data collection is required. Unlike consumer-grade or “semi-rugged” PDAs, the CN2 delivers the durability necessary for data collection in a full range of in-store retail operations and size-sensitive, light-industrial operations.
With an Intel XScale processor and Microsoft CE.NET operating system, the CN2 balances the need for real-time data collection performance with full-shift power management functionality. The operating system minimizes memory requirements, reduces complexity and allows the application developer to completely customize the user interface.
The CN2’s Cisco Certified Extension v1-compatible and Wi-Fi-certified 802.11b radio ensures consistent performance by providing the best available wireless network throughput, reliability and security. The mobile computer also is available in a wired version for batch applications that can be upgraded with a WLAN radio later if real-time connectivity is needed. The CN2 is available for order now for delivery in 2005 Q2.
NYT Introduces iBrowse for Mac
The New York Times has made available a new browser-based tool for reading its Electronic Edition on the Macintosh and other non-Windows-based PCs. Readers can now utilize iBrowse, a “point and click” web-based browser interface that eliminates downloading a reader. The Electronic Edition is the exact replica of the newspaper, which may be read on a Macintosh and Linux-based PC.
“We are pleased to introduce the digital reading experience of our Electronic Edition to Macintosh users,” said Marc Z. Kramer, senior VP, circulation, The New York Times. “With the introduction of iBrowse, we now offer Mac users a way to quickly access and read publications on their desktops or laptops. We hope that iBrowse will address the needs of the many Mac-based New York Times readers in the education, entertainment, arts and publishing fields.”
For more information about the Electronic Edition, visit mac.nytelectronicedition.com.
HP DesignJet Addresses ME Markets
HP has launched the radical HP DesignJet 4000 Printer series for the Middle East. The new model doubles the print speed of both color and B/W printing and is considered an ideal tool for line drawings, graphics, maps, renderings and presentations.
Ernest Azzam, business development manager, LFP Imaging and Printing Group HP Middle East, said this entry to the region’s printer market signified a new era in technology.
“The HP Designjet 4000 is a technological breakthrough in speed, color and printer management. Professionals working in architecture, engineering, construction, MCAD and GIS markets can now look forward to accurate lines, professional image quality and fast unattended printing,” Azzam said. “The new printer delivers fast printouts in A1/D size in as little as 25 seconds and can complete a print job of 100 A1/D formats within one hour. The printer provides a high-resolution up to 2400 dpi and up to +/- 0.1 percent line accuracy.”
Azzam explained that the HP Double Swath technology doubles the number of print head nozzles by placing them in a staggered formation. This staggering in turn allows the printer to extend the actual print path, resulting in a faster print output that makes the printer ideal for users with demanding deadlines and peak workloads.
