A robust Windows powered handheld computer by DAP

Handheld computers haven't yet taken the world by storm, but competition is just around the corner. DAP Technologies has recently announced the launch of a robust handheld computer that can operate on Windows CE6.0 as well as Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5. Possessing a small form factor, the M1000 has a 2.8-inch touch screen, a 12-key numeric keypad, 1D/2D scanning and an optional GPRS/GSM cellular model. This model has been designed keeping in mind the expected retail and warehouse environments.

Windows enabled rugged handheld computer

This device has short range 1D and 2D barcode scanning capabilities,which is well supported by a vibration motor. This motor helps the user know when a good quality scan has been achieved. Its data capture technology gives it the advantage of the larger devices and that too in a compact size of 5.7 x 2.4 x 1 inches (144 x 62 x 25mm) and 8.2 oz. (232 grams). Roughly measuring the size of a mobile phone, this rugged device is protected against the wrath of dust and water by an IP65-rated sealing.

The device is also touted to survive four-foot drips to concrete and at least 2000 one-meter tumbles. As per the specifications provided by the company, this device includes three barcode scanning triggers with four programmable function keys. Sitting right at the heart of M1000 is a 624MHz Marvell PXA310 processor. It also has 128MB of RAM, and 256MB of flash storage. For storing memory hungry data, you can expand it by inserting a microSD card in the slot that permits for 32GB more storage.

What's more, there's also a SIM slot, which supports the optional GPRS/GSM voice/data cellular module. The 2.8-inch QVGA resistive touchscreen offers a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, and comes with a 350-nit brightness rating. On the networking front, the phone is as strong as any other competitor. It supports 802.11b/g standard Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.0, and is equipped with a connector for an optional dock for providing a 5VDC power input. Also included is a USB host/client port.

The consumer has the option to choose from a standard 1,840mAh battery or an extended 2,760mAh version, though the battery life is still still something that hasn't yet been revealed. According to Khalid Kidari, DAP's director of product management and marketing, the new M1000 has been designed to have full data-capture functionality in a computer that's sized for comfortable use by a variety of users. He also considers that its compact form factor will make it a terrific choice for storefront retail use.

The detailed specifications as provided by DAP for the M1000 are:

• Processor	Marvell PXA310 clocked at 624MHz
  Memory	128MB of RAM and 256MB of flash
  Display	2.8-inch display with resistive touch, 320 x 240 pixel resolution, and 350-nit brightness rating
  Expansion	microSD slot
  Scanning	1D/2D (short range)
  Networking	WLAN:802.11b/g PAN: Bluetooth 2.0 WWAN:GPRS/GSM (optional)
  Other I/O	2.5mm headset jack docking connector USB host/client (via dock) 5VDC (via dock)
  Battery	1,840mAH li-ion (standard), 2,760mAh (optional)