Oct/Nov 2007

Psion Teklogix is the latest of the mobile computing giants to come up with a compact, powerful handheld unit in the modern mould. Its distinctively-named iKön looks more like an executive PDA in combat kit than a ruggedised industrial unit, and has the features to justify it - including the option of a full QWERTY keyboard, though this didn't feature much in early promotion.

The iKön is driven by Intel's most powerful processor in this class the moment - a 624MHz XScale PXA270 - which is backed by 128MB of RAM and 128MB of ROM. There is also a microSD memory card expansion slot.

The 3.7in display is to full VGA specification, rather than the more common quarter VGA, which means it should offer better resolution for detailed work. Psion promises 'incredible readability' in all lighting conditions.

There is a choice of no fewer than three variations on the Microsoft operating system - Windows CE .Net 5, Windows Mobile 6 Classic and Windows Mobile 6 Professional - answering a variety of requirements for mobile applications.

 

The unit can operate on a wireless network or act as a full mobile phone (or both), thanks to a variety of connectivity options, which include simultaneous Wi-Fi, Cellular (GSM/GPRS/UMTS) and Bluetooth. GPS location is included as standard. The 5000 mAh lithium-ion battery is said to offer best-in-class performance.

Barcode reading is catered for by optional one-dimensional scanner or imager, and the built-in camera (included as standard) offers 2-megapixel resolution.

The environmental rating is a respectable IP 65, and the unit is said to have been drop-tested to 1.5 metres on to polished concrete. The unit weighs in at a quoted 450g, including standard battery.

Then of course there's the 'cool' look of the unit. But how do you evaluate that?