A New Paradigm in Intrinisically Safe Mobile Computing

Have you ever thought,  if I could have a single device and load it with the 'kitchen sink' in terms of features, functionality, weight, size, GPS, wireless, RFID, the list goes on and on.......what would that form factor look like? Now image with all this technology you also have a Class I, Division 1 device for use in hazard area locations. Sounds far-fetched but the reality is that handheld mobile computer is here today.

The i.roc Ci70 -Ex offers unique industry-firsts among intrinsically safe mobile computers

The i.roc Ci70 -Ex is the latest edition of the award-winning i.roc series of handhelds from ecom and the first to be jointly engineered and developed with Intermec. A new paradigm in intrinsically safe mobile computing, the i.roc Ci70 -Ex offers an unmatched feature set among hazardous environment computers, carries the widest range of explosion-hazardous area approvals worldwide, and is fully compatible with applications originally developed for Intermec 70 series devices operating under Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3.

The unique modular concept of the i.roc Ci70 -Ex includes a number of industry-firsts among intrinsically safe mobile computers.

Key features include: Comprehensive wireless networking capabilities--including WWAN (3G CDMA or UMTS via the Qualcomm Gobi 3000 embedded module), WLAN (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n), and Bluetooth 2.1 allow for flexible data exchange even in areas with challenging reception conditions. Advanced, long-range bar code imaging technology pioneered by Intermec and now adapted for intrinsically safe environments. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) capability is achieved through modular design that support a wide range of frequencies, from low to ultra-high LF to UHF and ISO Standard frequencies. Like other devices built from the 70 series platform, the i.roc Ci70 -Ex is fully compatible with Intermec Development Library tools and applications. A wide range of peripherals and accessories make the i.roc Ci70 -Ex a truly complete enterprise business solution.

In addition to ecom’s worldwide service support, this device carries global certifications from NEC to ATEX and IECEx. Providing intrinsically safe mobile computing expertise for more than 25 years, the strategic partnership with Intermec leverages more than a 40 year legacy of innovation in rugged enterprise solutions to provide an uncompromising product to meet the demands of the industry’s toughest environments. Combining Intermec’s leadership in rugged mobile computing solutions with ecom’s expertise in hazardous environment computing, this new product is ready to face the most challenging applications.

The flexible i.roc Ci70 –Ex design was influenced to a high degree according to end user requirements and customer needs.

BP Chief Technology Office stated, “At BP, we believe technology can make a significant impact on the enterprise. We focus on a few technologies with immediate impact that will also benefit long-term business needs. The integration of current and emerging RF communications for large industrial sites could yield greater efficiencies for business operations.”

“Explosive environments – such as those found on oil rigs, in petrochemical plants or in pharmaceutical production facilities – are among the harshest and most challenging environments in which to operate mobile computing and communications devices. In the i.roc Ci70 -Ex, Intermec, a leading rugged mobile computer vendor, and ecom instruments, a leader in the field of intrinsic safety, have co-developed a uniquely differentiated intrinsically safe rugged handheld computer targeted at these environments. What is especially compelling about this device is that it conforms to all key global certifications – from NEC to ATEX and IECEx – making a truly global platform,” David Krebs, VP Mobile & Wireless at VDC Research.