Data collector increases features and reliability with Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0
Corvallis, Ore.—February 14, 2006—Tripod Data Systems™ (TDS) today announced its popular TDS Ranger™ rugged data collector features the Microsoft Windows Mobile® 5.0 platform. The new operating system offers additional features, improved reliability, and modern developer support and tools. The Ranger provides users with the latest handheld computer technology in a rugged form factor, helping them work more productively in the field.
“Surveyors have come to rely on the Ranger, not only because it keeps data safe in the roughest weather and work environments, but because it offers the latest technology and provides the features that matter most,” said Bill Martin, president of TDS. “The added features and increased dependability of Windows Mobile 5.0 will help field professionals be more productive than ever before.”
Windows Mobile 5.0, which replaces Windows Mobile™ 2003 in the Ranger, supports numerous additional features that improve efficiency and reliability. Comprehensive persistent storage eliminates the need for a RAM file system or Sprite Backup. The Ranger is SDIO-enabled, enabling use of compatible cards. Windows Mobile 5.0 also unlocks the USB host functionality of the Ranger’s standard USB port.
Windows Mobile 5.0 enables use of the latest software applications. The PowerPoint Mobile application allows the Ranger’s users to view PowerPoint slides. Microsoft Word Mobile provides better retention of original Word document information, and Excel Mobile allows users to create, view and modify common types of Excel charts. The new operating system also supports Microsoft Outlook Mobile and offers improvements in messaging features such as inbox navigation and e-mail account setup.
The Ranger features separate navigation, alpha and numeric keypads and meets MIL-STD-810F military standards for drops, vibration and temperature extremes. It also maintains an IP67 rating, meaning it’s impervious to water and dust. The Ranger comes with an SDIO slot and two CompactFlash slots so users can add GPS, GPRS, data storage, bar-code scanners and other devices. The standard rechargeable battery can power the Ranger for approximately 30 hours under normal operating conditions. The Ranger, combined with Survey Pro, gives land surveyors the latest data collection technology, helping them work more productively in the field.
TDS offers two base models for the Ranger. The Ranger 300X comes with a 312 MHz Intel XScale processor (520 MHz optional), 64 MB of SDRAM (128 MB optional) and a 64 MB Flash disk (up to 256 MB optional). The Ranger 500X comes with a 520 MHz processor, 128 MB of SDRAM and a 512 MB Flash disk. Integrated Bluetooth short-range wireless is standard on the Ranger 500X and optional on the Ranger 300X. Integrated 802.11b wireless is optional for both.
The Ranger with Windows Mobile 5.0 is expected to be available in late February 2006.
About Tripod Data Systems
Tripod Data Systems (TDS) develops hardware and software for mobile computing applications. TDS produces rugged handheld computers for extreme outdoor and industrial environments, software for land surveying and construction applications, and GIS systems for field data collection and automation. TDS is also the U.S. distributor for Nikon® survey products as well as for Spectra Precision products in the United States and Puerto Rico.
TDS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Trimble. TDS is headquartered in Corvallis, Ore., and was founded in 1987. For more information about TDS, visit www.tdsway.com, e-mail survey@tdsway.com or call 541-753-9322.