Oct/Nov 2006

LXE has announced a new version of its rugged, wearable, hands-free computer range, the HX2. Unlike the existing voice-dedicated HX1, the new model comes with a display screen and input keyboard, and is seen as ideal for customers who want to run both voice logistics applications and traditional barcode scanning applications on the same unit.

Nevertheless, the HX2 incorporates many of the voice-oriented features incorporated in the HX1, including LXE's ToughTalk technology. This uses special audio circuitry and noise cancelling techniques to enable the unit to support industrial-grade voice recognition applications.

The HX2 is a small, lightweight unit, designed to be worn on an operator's arm or waist. Full specification data was not available when we closed for press, but LXE has revealed that it will run under Windows CE 5.0 and will use an Intel XScale processor. Features will include 802.11b/g wireless connectivity plus Bluetooth.

Both the HX2 itself and its ring scanner accessories have been designed with safety in mind. The rugged has breakaway connections at multiple points and a low-profile, smooth design that is intended to resist snagging.