November 2002

The MobiPanel, a ruggedised "Web tablet" PC suitable for warehousing or field service applications, has been launched by Taiwanese manufacturer Advantech. Unlike the emerging full-sized tablet PCs, it runs Windows CE 3.0 rather than the full Windows desktop operating system, but this keeps its hardware requirements compact, and it weighs just 1.3kg,

Nevertheless, it packs an ample 10.4in TFT screen with 800 by 600 pixel LCD display into its 295mm by 235mm form factor. The display can be rotated through 90 deg to give either landscape or portrait format.

The processor is an Intel StrongARM 206MHz unit with 32MB or flash memory and up to 64MB of fast SDRAM (up to 128MB possible). Bundled software includes Pocket Outlook, a voice recorder and a PDF document viewer. It also come with Citrix thin-client networking software.

Input is via on-screen keyboard or pointing device, or via user-configurable buttons down the side of the bezel.

Extensive connectivity features include infra-red interface, RS232 serial port, two PS/2 mini-DIN ports, keyboard/mouse port, USB port, RJ45 Ethernet port, built-in 802.11b wireless LAN capability, and PCMCIA Type II and CompactFlash card slots. There's also a mini-VGA connector.

In case you missed any of that, this means you could connect a mouse, a keyboard and an external monitor to the unit, and use it almost like a desktop PC.

The MobiPanel is sealed against dust and water spillage to IP53 standard, and comes in a magnesium housing. It is said to be resistant to a 3ft drop on a concrete floor.