Have you checked out the 2009 Group Mobile Best Sellers Guide?

On our "Best Of" page we make recommendations based on our opinions and feedback from our customers. Click here to view the full page or keep reading for a sampling...

Best Multi Media Semi Rugged Laptop - This would be the Toughbook 52 (with bundle upgrade) from Panasonic. It has a large 15.4” display with WUXGA resolution. It comes with 512MB of Video RAM, a Firewire connection for fast uploads/download of photos and other digital files, as well as main memory (RAM) expandable to 4.0GB.

Read more about the Toughbook 52

Best Bargain in a Vehicle-Rated Ruggedized Laptop - Check out the General Dynamics-Itronix GD6000. This mobile computer is classified as semi-rugged, since it cannot handle use in a pouring rain, but it has all the features required for use in an in-vehicle computing setup. Police departments love this unit, for example, for use in their cruisers. And the GD6000 is priced less than the comparable fully-rugged laptops.

Read more about the GD-Itronix GD6000

Most Versatile Fully Rugged Laptop - The Getac A790 has incredible versatility. The customer can choose from a 12”, or 14” display screen. The customer can pick either the touchscreen or non-touchscreen; and between a regular or daylight-readable display. The customer can select additional RS232, RS422, RS485, or SCSI-II ports. One can even add 2 more ISA slots or 2 more PCI slots. And there are other options for this rugged mobile computer, as well. This is, without question, the most “configurable” rugged laptop in the world.

Read more about the Getac A790

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit http://www.groupmobile.com/ or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Rugged Computer Features - Power and Batteries

Choosing the correct power accessories is an important aspect of ensuring you have the right solution for your rugged mobile computing requirements. Below we have listed the various choices and considerations:

AC Adapter - All mobile computers come standard with an ac adapter for plugging into a wall outlet. Some users buy an additional ac adapter in order to have one at work and one at home. Please note, desktop docks often do not come with an ac adapter as the manufacturer assumes you will use the ac adapter that came with your computer. Make sure you order an extra ac adapter with your desktop dock if you need more than one.

Vehicle Power Adapter - All rugged mobile and in-vehicle computers can operate from the power provided by a vehicle's battery. Usually this is accomplished by a 12V vehicle power adapter, also known as a cigarette lighter adapter. Your rugged mobile PC can also be connected directly to the vehicle's battery via a hot wire. But it is highly recommended that a power protection device is used in between any in-vehicle computer and battery to avoid hard-shut downs and other issues.

Battery - All portable computers come with a battery. The battery is normally a Lithium-Ion type and can be recharged 200+ times before it can no longer hold a charge. Therefore the batteries inside any rugged mobile pc need to be replaced every 1-3 years, depending on usage. The length of time that a charge will last varies greatly. The range is 2 hours to 10 hours depending on the battery, the computer and the usage.

Click here to read more about power and battery options for your rugged mobile computer. For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Introducing Nexcom Rugged Tablet PCs

NEXCOM is a leading automation solution provider, combining innovation, connectivity, flexibility, ruggedness and fan-less design with today's latest and most reliable mobile computing technologies. With over 15 years of solid experience in the industrial PC field, NEXCOM offers new solutions to suit your rugged computer needs:

MRC 2100-E - Economical Mobile Rugged Computer
The NEXCOM MRC 2100-E is a cost-effective rugged handheld tablet computer designed for mobile workers requiring real-time information. This economical, yet rugged tablet PC comes equipped with the Intel® Atom™ Processor, integrated 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth, optional 3.5G mobile broadband engine, optional barcode scanner and optional RFID interface. The MRC 2100-E's IP54-rated rugged design makes this tablet PC suitable for use even in harsh environments.

MRC 2300 - Cost Effective Rugged Tablet PC
The NEXCOM MRC 2300 is an inexpensive, yet durable rugged tablet computer designed for mobile workers in need of real-time information. This economical rugged tablet PC has an 8" LCD sunlight readable touch screen display that utilizes LED backlight technology to optimize power consumption. This display, combined with integrated wireless capabilities make the MRC 2300 tablet PC ideal for in-vehicle use or for remote and outdoor conditions.

Click here to read more about the new Nexcom tablet PCs or for more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Have you Considered a Docking Station for your Rugged Computer?

A docking station is a hardware frame with a set of electrical connection interfaces that enable your rugged notebook computer to effectively serve as a desktop computer. The interfaces typically allow your rugged laptop, tablet pc, or handheld to communicate with a local printer, larger storage or backup drives, and possibly other devices that are not usually taken along with an in-field computer. A docking station can also include a network interface card that attaches your ruggedized computer to a local area network. Variations include the port replicator, which is an attachment on a computer that expands the number of ports it can use, and the expansion base, which might hold a media drive, a floppy disk drive, and a battery charging station.

To find out a docking station for your rugged tablet pc, rugged laptop, or handheld, click here and choose the applicable product line. You can also search for other accessories while you’re at it – like great ruggedized carry cases, extra memory, or additional stylus pens.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Will a Rugged Tablet PC work for me?

Rugged Tablet PC's are designed for those who work in the factory, warehouse or in the field and are often used for data collection activities. They can also take the place of the manual completion of forms. The primary value of a ruggedized tablet pc is that the data is collected or the forms completed once, and the information does not have to be entered or re-keyed into an office computer. This saves time and eliminates transcription errors. Signature capture is another popular usage, particularly for service or delivery workers who need to capture the customers' or package recipients' signature.

To take a look at the selection of rugged tablet computers that Group Mobile proudly offers – from the DRS Armor M10, to the Panasonic Toughbook H1, Motion Computing J3400, or Xplore iX104C4 and others- please click here.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Understanding Touch Screens

Touchscreens are often a feature or upgrade option on rugged, mobile computers that are not offered on commercial, plastic computers. Basically, a touchscreen is another way to move around in an application other than the keyboard/mouse. In the rugged computer world, touch screens come in two flavors - the more traditional finger-touch style of touch screen also called passive or resistive, and the newer style digitizer or active touch screen which requires the use of a stylus pen and allows for handwriting or signature capture directly on the screen of the ruggedized laptop, handheld, or tablet. Some manufacturers offer rugged computer models with one or the other type while others offer a dual-mode which provides both types in the same computer.

Touchscreens are often a desirable feature for in-vehicle computers or for any ruggedized in-field computer used in an environment where typing is difficult. Some organizations develop or purchase software that is specifically designed with a touchscreen in mind that will have big touch buttons on the screen (think about an ATM machine or restaurant cash register for example).

Click here to read more about displays or for more information regarding all rugged mobile computing subjects visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field Tablet PC Available at Group Mobile

Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field Tablet PC Available at Group Mobile

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Introducing the Latest Toughbook from Panasonic

The Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field Tablet is the ultimate rugged handheld tablet PC for mobile workers. With its superior ergonomics, a 10.4" sunlight-viewable screen and sealed all-weather design, the H1 Field PC lets you work nearly anywhere. This rugged tablet PC is designed with a magnesium alloy internal frame and is IP65 and MIL-STD-810G certified to withstand spills and drops. The Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field Tablet PC includes a full range of integrated wireless features including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth® and optional Gobi™ mobile broadband. With the H1 Field’s fast charging hot-swappable twin batteries to maximize uptime, optional integrated GPS and SmartCard reader, this handheld rugged tablet PC is unrivaled in the field. To read more about the rugged Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field Tablet Computer, click here.



For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Best Rugged Computers for Transportation

No matter your mode of transportation; planes, trains, cars, trucks, busses or ships, rugged mobile computers are built to withstand constant vibration, harsh environments and rough handling that can destroy commercial plastic laptops. Rugged mobile laptops and tablets are also handy communication tools allowing drivers to more easily communicate with one another, streamline deliveries, send arrival and departure information, plus much more. Click here to see Group Mobile’s suggestions for the best rugged computers for Transportation.

And don’t forget about our extensive line of mobile computer vehicle mounts. Click here to view our most popular in-car computer mounts. If you don’t see your make and model, please contact us!

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Group Mobile is your Vehicle Mount Superstore

A computer vehicle mount keeps your computer securely in place and close at hand for increased efficiency. Group Mobile carries an extensive line of vehicle mounts and computer stands to choose from. Even if your computer is not a rugged mobile computer, our car and truck computer mounts fit all brands including Dell, HP, Motorola, Lenovo, Fujitsu, Sony and others. If you can’t find the vehicle computer stand or mount you are looking for, please contact our Computer Vehicle Mount Specialist. Or visit our website to learn more about the Vehicle Mount brands that Group Mobile proudly offers… brands like RAM, Gamber-Johnson, Havis, Ledco, and Jotto. Or click here to learn more about computer vehicle mounts.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit http://www.groupmobile.com/ or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Rugged Fixed Mount PC's

A fixed-mount rugged PC is designed to be mounted to something or on something and to stay there. Fixed-mount rugged PC's do not have internal batteries; therefore they cannot be carried around away from an AC outlet or a vehicle battery. There are two typical applications for a rugged fixed-mounted computer. One is in a factory or industrial environment where the rugged computer is mounted to the wall or to a piece of equipment for monitoring/control. The second typical application is when a rugged computer is needed in or on a vehicle or any mobile conveyance. Examples of this would be cars, trucks, semis, forklifts, tractors, backhoes, ATV's, cement mixers, aircraft, ships, barges, etc. Fixed-mount rugged PC's are typically ultra rugged, totally sealed and designed to run for many years without problems. Click here to see all of Group Mobile’s Rugged Fixed Mount Computers.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit http://www.groupmobile.com/or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Thanks,

Refurbished Rugged Computers

Factory Refurbished Rugged Mobile Computers are rugged computers that were previously used as demo units or returns that have been processed by an authorized technician. They are an excellent choice for anyone working within the constraints of a smaller budget. Product is 100% functional and has passed OEM diagnostic testing. Each rugged computer should be complete with all plugables, accessories and OS, unless otherwise noted. They are cosmetically in excellent condition with normal wear and tear based on age and use of product, but may have minor case scratches.

Group Mobile often has refurbished rugged Panasonic Toughbooks and refurbished rugged General Dynamics-Itronix GoBooks among their available units. Visit our Refurbished List online to see what other rugged laptops, rugged tablets, and rugged UMPC’s are currently available.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Getac Now Offering 5-Year Warranty on all Fully Rugged Models

Getac, a leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged computers has announced that it will offer a new 5-year warranty on its complete line of fully rugged notebook computers and rugged tablets. This new bumper-to-bumper warranty represents the best warranty in the industry at no additional cost to Getac customers. The new warranty covers all fully rugged systems delivered on or after January 1, 2010.

This new warranty is an impressive accomplishment when considering the extreme environments and applications in which Getac's products are typically used. By adding the 5-year warranty, including accidental damage, Getac users and corporate purchasing departments will be able to extend the life-cycle of these rugged computing products in the field and amortize the cost over longer periods without additional service fees beyond the typical 3-year warrantees. The models that now include this standard 5-Year Warranty are the Getac B300 Rugged Laptop, Getac A790 Rugged Laptop, and Getac M230N Rugged Laptop. Click here to view the full Getac product line at Group Mobile.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Best Computers for Field Service Applications

Whether you are in field sales, service or repair, rugged laptops allow you to be more productive. Unlike commercial laptops, a rugged laptop will not fail you out in the field even if you happen to drop it or spill liquids on it. More importantly, rugged laptops have sunlight viewable displays so that you can see your screen even when the sun is glaring. All rugged laptops come with a shock mounted hard drive, waterproof keyboard and magnesium alloy casing. Click here to see Group Mobile’s suggestions for the best Field Service models.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

New! – DRS ARMOR X10 Rugged Tablet

The all-new ARMOR X10 Rugged Tablet with Intel® Core Duo™ Mobile technology is one of the most durable, reliable and easy-to-use tablet computers on the market today. Housed in a specially designed aluminum DuraCase™ chassis with ShutOut™ sealing technology, the ARMOR X10 Tablet meets IP 66 level protection from dust, dirt, water and other damaging elements while still offering no-flap input connections and hot-swappable battery access without the need for tools. Click here to read more about the all-new DRS ARMOR X10 Rugged Tablet.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Rugged Computers for Business Travelers

Group Mobile offers several business rugged laptops, which are designed with the Business Traveler/Road Warrior in mind. Business rugged laptops are stronger and more durable than commercial plastic laptops. The business rugged laptops have magnesium alloy cases, shock mounted hard drives, long battery life and spill proof keyboards without compromising functionality, style and weight.


Visit our Business Travelers Computers page or call us at 1-866-784-4338 to learn more about these rugged computers.

Group Mobile’s 2009 Best Seller Guide!

Check out our Top Sellers for Rugged Computers in 2009. Here we make recommendations based on our opinions and feedback from our customers on rugged computers. These rugged computers are placed in various sub-categories such as “Most Versatile Fully Rugged Laptop”, “BEST Bargain in a Semi Rugged Laptop” and more…

Please visit our 2009 Best Sellers Guide to see the complete list. For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8. One of our specialists will assist you in finding the perfect rugged computing solution that fits your needs.

Browse our “New Releases” section for rugged computing products

We are aware that many people are interested in the “latest and greatest”. Therefore we have created a web page dedicated to New Releases. New releases are those rugged computer products that have been introduced in the last few months. The content of this page will change fairly often as new products will be added frequently and no-longer-new products will drop off the page.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8

Great deals on rugged computing products (www.groupmobile.com)

Group Mobile is offering some great specials (limited time offer only!)

• 10% discount on Panasonic Toughbook H1 (perfect healthcare tablet pc)
• 10% discount on Panasonic Toughbook U1 (fully rugged, sleek and affordable)
• Special pricing on Panasonic Toughbook 52 and Getac P470
• Also, ask about our vehicle computer mounts and more…

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8. One of our specialists will assist you in finding the perfect rugged computing solution that fits your needs.

Group Mobile offers Getac rugged computers with military certification

Getac has gained MIL-STD-810G, MIL-STD-461F and IP65 certification via an independent testing lab which should prove once and for all that the gadgets being offered by Getac can withstand even the severest environmental conditions.

Getac products receiving MIL-STD-810G, IP65 certification include its A790, B300, and M230 rugged notebooks, V100 rugged convertible notebook, E100 rugged Tablet PC, and PS535 rugged Handheld.

Visit www.groupmobile.com to learn more about Getac rugged computers or call us at 1-866-784-4338

Free Panasonic Toughbook H1 Mounting Dock!

For a limited time with the purchase of an award-winning Panasonic Toughbook H1 (base model), Group Mobile will give you a Panasonic Toughbook H1 Gamber Johnson Docking Cradle absolutely free! That’s a $400 savings!

(Offer good now through December 31st, 2009)

Check out www.groupmobile.com for other specials and promotions, or call us at 1-866-784-4338

Incredible offer on the Getac P470 – Call today to receive a free quote!

Also check out our new Getac P470 Office Kit and Getac P470 Vehicle kit.

The office kit includes a P470 laptop appropriately configured for dual mobile use and use as your office computer, an office dock and deluxe soft carry bag. This Getac P470 is equipped with a large 14.1” display.

The vehicle kit includes a P470 laptop appropriately configured for use in a vehicle, a vehicle docking station and a vehicle charger/adapter. This Getac P470 is equipped with a 14.1” wide daylight readable touch screen which offers readability in bright and sunny outdoor situations as well as in vehicles and indoors.

Hurry! Offer valid through December 31, 2009

Check out www.groupmobile.com for other specials and promotions, or call us at 1-866-784-4338

Rugged Computers for Military & Homeland Security

Rugged computers are used in all branches of the military and for good reason. Rugged computers are able to withstand the intense heat and sand of the desert and can survive the bumps and jolts of an armored vehicle or naval vessel. Rugged computers have been tested according to military standards (MIL-STD 810F) and have daylight-viewable displays for in-field use.

Click here to read more...

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.
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Rugged Computers for Construction

Mobile computers are utilized in the construction industry for a variety of purposes. Often, the project foreman has a laptop in his truck that he/she can take onto the job site. Pulling up blueprints or project requirements, communicating with the office, on-site material management & timekeeping are typical mobile applications. Essential features for construction computers are: sunlight-viewable display, protection against drops, water & dust, and against in-vehicle vibrations from rough roads.

Click here to see Group Mobile’s latest models for the construction industry.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit http://www.groupmobile.com/ or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.
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Why is the right display screen so important?

If you have ever taken a commercial laptop to the beach or out by the pool, you quickly realized that the screen is almost impossible to read. Daylight-readable displays, like those found on many rugged computers, are much brighter. If you intend to use a computer outdoors or in a mobile environment, daylight-readable or sunlight-readable is a must. Many rugged computers either come standard with an outdoor display screen, or offer outdoor viewability as an option. Read More…

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit http://www.groupmobile.com/ or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.
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Best Bargain in a Fully Rugged UMPC

The Toughbook U1 from Panasonic is an incredible UMPC (Ultra Mobile Personal Computer) at an incredible price. The U1 is quite versatile for such a small computer. It comes standard with sunlight viewable display, anti-reflective screen treatment, LED backlighting, touchscreen LCD, SD card slot, USB port and Bluetooth. Some popular upgrade options are integrated mobile broadband wireless for use with Sprint, Verizon or AT&T, integrated GPS, 2 megapixel camera, barcode scanner and expansion module.

The Toughbook U1 is also the most rugged computer that Panasonic makes. Rated IP 54 and MIL-STD-810F the Toughbook U1 can take a 4-foot drop, has a magnesium alloy cage chassis, a removable solid state hard drive and a sealed all-weather design that protects the UMPC from rain, spills, dust and vibration.

Click here to learn more about the U1’s features and available options.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit http://www.groupmobile.com/ or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

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Group Mobile, announced that they have been chosen as one of the 2009 Comerica Bank Arizona Companies to Watch!

The 2009 Comerica Bank Arizona Companies to Watch is an honor presented by the Arizona Small Business Association, Comerica Bank and the Edward Lowe Foundation.

To read the complete article, click on our Press Center.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED8

Which vehicle mount is right for your laptop?

If you’re a mobile professional and you frequently find yourself on your computer while in the driver’s seat, a Vehicle Laptop Mount, which includes a universal laptop tray, is a good option for holding your laptop inside your vehicle.

If you have not found the right vehicle computer mount solution on our website, please feel free to call our Vehicle Mount Specialist at 1-866-784-4338 or complete our Vehicle Computer Mount Questionnaire. A vehicle mount specialist will contact you as we have many additional solutions available.

Group Mobile Press Center – Press Release (September 17, 2009)

Group Mobile, a provider of rugged, mobile and field-use computing products, announced that they made the Inc. 5,000 list of fast growth companies in the U.S. for the third year in a row.

To read the complete article, click on our Press Center.

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED8

Self-Assess Your Mobile Computing Needs

A rugged mobile computer is essentially a portable computer that’s been engineered to stand up to the toughest conditions. There are many different kinds of rugged computers and they come in a variety of different sizes, form factors and prices.

If you’re thinking of buying a rugged mobile computer, but not quite sure which computer will best meet your needs here is a quick Systems Requirement Questionnaire you can review and complete. It will only take a few minutes and it will guide you to what a rugged mobile computer can offer.

To speak to a rugged mobile computer expert, call us at 1-866-784-4338; or visit us online at www.groupmobile.com.