Oct/Nov 2006

A new slant on voice-directed data collection is evident in the latest product from Psion Teklogix - a modified version of its established Workabout Pro handheld computer that has extra capabilities for voice recognition and actuation. It is called the Workabout Pro Speech.

The launch reflects a parallel strategic drive by Psion Teklogix and voice recognition specialist Vocollect. For Psion, the unit is a significant component in a new product range that it has branded VIP, or Voice Integrated Platform. Under this heading will come products offering a range of voice-related functionality in areas such as speech recognition, VoIP (voice over Internet Protocol), push-to-talk and cellular voice.

For Vocollect, the launch represents part of a move to extend its voice recognition systems further into the realms of third-party hardware. Unlike rival Voxware, which has pulled out of hardware development to concentrate on voice recognition software, Vocollect continues to offer its well-established Talkman range; but the arrangement with Psion Teklogix underlines its ability to work with third-party products as well.

The Workabout Pro Speech in fact incorporates some Vocollect hardware, which has been wrapped up in a modular accessory kit designed by Vocollect specifically for Psion Teklogix. This incorporates an integrated speech module, which has been created by Vocollect using Psion Teklogix's Workabout Pro hardware development kit. This interfaces directly with the main logic board of the terminal.

 

Also included is a headset connector end-cap, which allows users to plug in the industrial-grade breakaway connectors of Vocollect's SR Series headsets.

The companies say the ISM audio circuit has been optimised to run Vocollect Voice at a performance standard virtually equivalent to that of Vocollect's Talkman wearable computers. Both companies build their hardware round a Windows CE-based platform, which no doubt helped.

According to Tim Eusterman, Vocollect's vice president of marketing and business development: "Vocollect's mission is to expand voice-directed work across an increasing variety of applications and market segments."

Duncan Smillie, managing director of Psion Teklogix, says the development allows users to benefit from voice technology within a hand-held mobile computer along with other data collection technologies such as RFID, imaging and scanning.