April/May 2003

A premium-quality all-in-one in-vehicle computer terminal combining decent processing power with a large, bright TFT screen and on-board communications capabilities has been launched in Europe by InfoWave, a Singapore-based electronics multinational.

The InfoWave 728 has GPS tracking and GSM/GPRS mobile phone technology built in, and unlike many terminals using such connectivity, is designed for voice as well as data communication. The company reckons its users can therefore avoid the cost of providing a separate mobile phone.

At the heart of the unit is an Intel StrongARM SA1110 RISC processor running at 206 MHz. This is backed up by 64MB of SDRAM and up to 32MB of Flash ROM storage. There is an integral GPRS/GSM modem providing wireless data and voice capability, and an integral GPS unit for positioning. The large 7in TFT LCD touch screen is visible in daylight conditions, and has four programmable buttons.

Hidden features include ability to withstand vibration and temperature extremes, and electrical and electronic shielding to prevent interference from other vehicle systems.

 

The 728 can run either Windows CE 3.0 or Embedded Linux, and a software development kit is offered to customers.

The 728 is the first product offered in Europe by its Singapore manufacturer, a joint venture involving CET Technologies, Trek 2000 and Melodeon. The company is said to be keen to talk to potential developers and resellers.