Aug/Sept 2007

Another new name in the UK for ruggedised handheld computer-scanners is Bluebird Soft, a South Korean manufacturer, whose Pidion product range is now being distributed here by Varlink, the auto-ID specialist.

The first Pidion model on offer is the BIP-5000-5, a compact and stylish ruggedised PDA. Features includes an Intel PXA270 processor running at 520MHz, 64MB of RAM and 128MB ROM (both expandable) and a Mini SD memory card slot. The operating system is Windows CE 5.0. Environmental protection is to IP54 standard, while the screen is a large 3in unit.

The device includes both laser scanner and CMOS imager, and Varlink will also be offering a range of accessories including a vehicle mounting kit with a GPS module.

Sabine Kelly, Varlink's marketing manager, offers an interesting insight into how her company comes to offer a unit such as the Pidion. 'What our customers need to clinch deals often lies on a fine line between form factor and rich functionality,' she says.

 

A specific feature that operators are currently demanding, she adds, is the ability to capture images on a screen larger than those found on mobile phones and smartphones. Other features much in demand include GPRS functionality and barcode scanning.

Within a week of taking delivery of stock, she says Varlink already had a number of units out on evaluation.