Rugged Tablets for Highly Mobile Workers

Motion F5v with Touch

Dual Input Increases Flexibility and Ease of Use!

The Motion F5v Tablet PC is now available with a dual-input display to support both capacitive two-finger touch and high-resolution digitizer pen for increased flexibility and ease of use while gathering, accessing, or transmitting data. Mobile professionals benefit from the speed and convenience of natural gesture navigation, as well as the ability to capture signatures and navigate programs that require the accuracy of high-resolution pen input.

At only 3.3 lbs the Motion F5v makes it easy to take technology into the field to streamline processes and increase productivity. Available with up to an Intel® Core™ i7 vPro™ processor, the F5v offers uncompromising levels of power, security and manageability. With extended battery life, a hot-swap battery feature, superior performance and advanced remote management capabilities, mobile workers are equipped with a robust computing tool for accomplishing virtually any task. Read More...

Big Savings on the Trimble Yuma
Over $700 Off SRP

For a limited time, Group Mobile is offering a BIG discount on the Trimble Yuma rugged tablet computer!
  

The Yuma offered in this amazing sale features an 1.6GHz processor, 32GB Solid State Drive, 1GB DDRII memory, dual hot-swappable batteries, and built-in wireless capabilities including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth®. It also features a sunlight viewable 7" touch screen display for easy viewing in all lighting conditions.

With the Trimble Yuma, conducting inspections, collecting data and information, capturing geo-tagged photographs, communicating with headquarters, and real-time transferring of data is made easy - all with the peace of mind that your important information is protected from dust, sand, mud, humidity, and temperature extremes by the Yuma tablet's rugged magnesium alloy shell. Read More...

Quantities are limited, so order yours now!

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

Group Mobile and Emergency Response Maps Partnership

Group Mobile and Emergency Response Maps (ERM) announced a strategic partnership that will provide a turnkey mapping and mobile response solutions to first responders. The relationship will combine ERM's RUNBOOK® (http://www.groupmobile.com/product.asp/sku=6006) and eFirstView® (http://www.groupmobile.com/product.asp/sku=6005) software with rugged laptops and tablet computers supplied by Group Mobile to provide EMS and other public safety professionals a complete mobile computing solution to enhance first responder safety, while improving response times and operational capabilities. Today, EMS and other public safety professionals are in need of automated systems that comply with strict local, state and federal requirements. There is also an increasing need for tools to make firefighting and other first responder efforts more effective to improve their safety and the safety of the citizens they protect. All of this information needs to be accessible on a computer system that is rugged enough to withstand the tough environments EMS and public safety professionals encounter throughout their daily routines. With ERM and Group Mobile, first responders and public safety professionals are delivered a comprehensive solution that provides timely access to mobile mapping, GPS routing, incident management, and hazardous materials solutions. Together, ERM and Group Mobile supply the required rugged computer hardware and software including installation, configuration, and training at an affordable price. Read more...

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

Ultra Rugged Computers for Extraordinary Conditions

Getac X500 
Fully Rugged Notebook
The Getac X500 fully rugged notebook joins extreme durability, ultra fast speed, and expandability to create the ultimate mobile computing solution for military and field operations. The Getac X500 is military-certified for operation in the most extreme conditions. It is certified for ruggedness and shock protection, and its IP65 rating protects the unit from water and dust. The Getac X500 rugged notebook's design and it's 5-year bumper-to-bumper warranty make it an ideal mobile computing solution to meet virtually every communications and environmental challenge that military and field operations personnel face today.  Starting at $4,759

Xplore iX104C5 DMSR 
Fully Rugged Tablet
The Xplore iX104C5 DMSR (Dual-Mode Sunlight-Readable) fully rugged tablet stands up to real world conditions such as 4' operating drops to concrete, heavy rain, blowing sand and dust, continuous vibration, temperature extremes, and more. The iX104C5 utilizes a remote heat exchanger technology while maintaining a submersible IP67 rating. This fully rugged tablet delivers powerhouse performance with the Intel Core i7 platform as well as the AllVue Xtreme outdoor display technology.  Starting at $4,599

Trimble Ranger 3 
Fully Rugged Handheld
The Trimble Ranger 3 Series rugged handheld has the mobile computing tools field service workers depend on. Some standard integrated features on the Ranger include: an ultra-fast processor, 256MB RAM, and 8GB of Flash storage for speed and performance along with a 30-hour long-life, hot-swappable battery that can work all day without being recharged. It meets demanding military standards for drops, vibration, humidity, altitude, and temperature extremes. It also comes with an IP67 rating, meaning the Ranger handheld is completely sealed against dust, and can survive immersion in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes. This rugged handheld is truly ready for the outdoors!  Starting at $2,699

Ever wonder how rugged computers are rated?  

Ratings are set by various government agencies, industry groups and/or independent laboratories and are cited by manufacturers in order to establish a more exact degree of environmental protection and reliability.

View IP-rating table and other standards/ratings

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

Looking for a Bargain?

Panasonic Toughbook U1 Ultra - The Toughbook U1 Ultra 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 a 6000 nit sunlight viewable display that automatically adjusts screen brightness to fit its environment, anti-reflective screen treatment, touchscreen LCD, SD card slot, USB port, and Bluetooth.

Starting at $2559...

DT Research WebDT 390 Tablet - The DT Research DT390’s LED-backlit, 8.9-inch display is available with a sunlight viewable option for working outdoors. The display has a resistive touchscreen that accepts both pen and finger touch input. USB and optional integrated 3MP camera, magnetic stripe reader, barcode scanner, SmartCard reader, and RFID reader make the WebDT 390 tablet suitable for a wide variety of applications.

Starting at $1399...

GD8000 Mobile Computing Solution - The GD8000 fully rugged laptop is designed for the toughest user and tested to meet, and even exceed military standards, including temperature extremes, humidity, vibration, dust, drops, and spills. From its the water tight case and shock mounted display, to the ability to withstand 48" drops, it is ready for years of rugged use.  This value bundle includes the GD8000 fully rugged laptop, a vehicle power supply, spare Li-Ion battery, and a 3 Year No-Fault Max Service Warranty.

Starting at $3995...

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

Save Big on this GD8000 Fully Rugged Laptop Bundle

Group Mobile's GD8000 Mobile Computing Solution is ideal for field service and other mobile professionals that need a laptop and the essential accessories for working in the field and other challenging work environments. It offers both savings and convenience by bundling everything you need to stay powered-up and connected at a reduced price.

 
The GD8000 Mobile Computing Solution includes:   

• General Dynamics Itronix GD8000 rugged laptop Vehicle power adapter   
• Spare Lithium-ion battery
• 3 Year No-Fault Max Service Warranty

 The GD8000 is designed for the toughest user and tested to meet, and even exceed military standards. It is powered by the Intel® low-voltage Core™ 2 Duo processing architecture and features a 160GB shock-mounted hard drive with a heater, 1GB DDR3 RAM, and a 13.3-inch DynaVue® display with touchscreen for excellent viewability in all lighting conditions. This configuration has impressive communications capabilities including Bluetooth and GPS.  

The GD8000 Mobile Computing Solution is specially priced and available for immediate shipment. Other configurations are also available. Each model is on sale until March 31, 2012 or while supplies last. Learn more!

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

Panasonic Toughbook H2

For a limited time you can save an additional $50 off our already-low price on any of the fully rugged Panasonic Toughbooks Group Mobile carries! We will also throw in a free screen protector! Simply mention this newsletter or enter promo code RUGGEDBLOG12 when you place an order on our website. Discount will be taken when order is processed. Offer ends March 15, 2012. Order here!

Panasonic Toughbook 19 vs. Snowmobile

For a limited time you can save an additional $50 off our already-low price on any of the fully rugged Panasonic Toughbooks Group Mobile carries! We will also throw in a free screen protector! Simply mention this newsletter or enter promo code RUGGEDBLOG12 when you place an order on our website. Discount will be taken when order is processed. Offer ends March 15, 2012. Order here!

Panasonic Toughbook 31 vs. ATV

For a limited time you can save an additional $50 off our already-low price on any of the fully rugged Panasonic Toughbooks Group Mobile carries! We will also throw in a free screen protector! Simply mention this newsletter or enter promo code RUGGEDBLOG12 when you place an order on our website. Discount will be taken when order is processed. Offer ends March 15, 2012.  Order here! 

Special Offer from Group Mobile 

Save $50 + Free Screen Protector

For a limited time you can save an additional $50 off our already-low price on any of the fully rugged Panasonic Toughbooks Group Mobile carries! We will also throw in a free screen protector! Simply mention this newsletter or enter promo code RUGGEDBLOG12 when you place an order on our website. Discount will be taken when order is processed. Offer ends March 15, 2012.  

Panasonic Toughbook 31
Reliable, ultra-rugged laptop delivers desktop-class performance

With first rate ruggedness, drop shock protection, and certification exceeding MIL-STD-810G, the Toughbook 31 is a leader in the fully rugged laptop category. Its Intel® Core™ i5 and i3 processors combined with available discrete graphics deliver amazing performance and greatly enhanced video and 3D graphics. A sunlight-viewable touchscreen display allows for work in any lighting condition. An integrated webcam option sets it apart from the competition. Read More... 

 Panasonic Toughbook 19
Comes standard with a shock-mounted hard drive and "finger-touch" display

The unique and fully rugged Panasonic Toughbook 19 is a convertible-style computer that can be used as either a rugged notebook or as a tablet. It features a 10.4" sunlight-viewable touchscreen display and an Intel® Core™ i5 vPro™ processor. Integrated options include a 2MP camera, backlit keyboard, GPS receiver, Gobi™2000 mobile broadband and a dual touch LCD (touchscreen and digitizer). In addition, a 6-foot drop & IP65 certified design with a full magnesium alloy case, helps to ensure that the Toughbook 19 will stand up to the most rigorous environments. Read More...

Panasonic Toughbook H2
Ultimate productivity tool for mobile workers

The  Panasonic Toughbook H2 rugged tablet is an ideal productivity tool for mobile workers. It weighs only 3.5 pounds and is designed to protect against environmental conditions and accidental situations, such as bumps, drops, or exposure to wind, heat, and rain. The Toughbook H2 is powered by an Intel® Core™ i5 vPro™ processor, 4GB SDRAM, and a 320GB 7200rpm shock-mounted, flex-connect hard drive for amazing speed and performance. It offers a complete range of embedded wireless options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, and optional 4G LTE or Gobi™2000 3G mobile broadband to help users stay connected while in the field. Read More...

Check out the new Toughpad A1 Rugged Android Tablet PC

Coming Spring 2012...

Features:

• 10.1" multi- touch daylight-readable, touchscreen + digitizer display
• Dust and water resistant design (MIL-STD-810G and IP65 certified)
• Lightweight, ergonomic design for mobile workers
• Complete range of integrated wireless features GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and optional 4G LTE
• Wi-Fi hotspot router supports up to 5 devices
• Integrated front and rear webcams

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

Trimble Yuma Tablet Updated with an 80GB SSD


We're excited to announce that the Trimble Yuma Rugged Tablet is now available with the option to swap the original 32GB Solid State Hard Drive for a 80GB SSD at no additional cost.  Conducting inspections, collecting data and information, capturing geo-tagged photographs, communicating with headquarters, and real-time transferring of data will be even easier than before — and you'll still have the peace of mind that your important information is protected from dust, sand, mud, humidity, and temperature extremes by the Yuma tablet's rugged magnesium alloy shell.

 

Don't forget, the Yuma also comes standard with these great features...

• Outdoor rugged tablet design complies with MIL-STD-810F and IP67 standards for drops, vibration, humidity, altitude, and temperature extremes.
• Sunlight viewable 7" touchscreen display for easy viewing in all lighting conditions
• Integrated wireless capabilities including GPS, WiFi 802.11b/g, and Bluetooth for easy connection to other devices, networks, and the Internet
• Dual hot-swappable Lithium-ion batteries to reduce downtime
• 12-month limited warranty

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


 

 

 

 

Group Mobile Wants to Hear from YOU!

Group Mobile, and our customers, need your help. We believe that User Reviews are extremely valuable to those looking to acquire technology products. For this reason we are collecting user product reviews and will be posting them on our website for all to see. If you use a rugged portable computer, of any make or model, please take a few minutes to complete our quick four-question survey.

Take our quick survey to let us know how you rate your rugged computer.
Your user product review will help others make more informed buying decisions. Having numerous, candid user product reviews on our website will help you in the future when you are next in the market for a rugged computer. Thank you in advance for your participation and valuable contribution!

To read how other rugged computers users rate the machines they are using, visit the Rugged Computer Product User Reviews page.

New Rugged Computer Products 

Here are a few of the new products from 2011 

Panasonic Toughbook 53 - Semi- rugged laptop that offers desktop performance 

Getac X500 - Fully rugged notebook joins extreme durability, ultra fast speed, and expandability

Panasonic Toughbook H2 - The ultimate productivity tablet computer for mobile workers

Motion CL900 - A blend of performance, integrated features, and mobility in a compact semi-rugged tablet 

GD Itronix GD2000- This Ultra-Mobile Personal Computer (UMPC) is a powerful, pocket-sized rugged computer

Trimble Ranger 3 - Rugged handheld that is intelligent, durable, and includes features that field professionals depend on (pictured)

Group Mobile Best of 2011

The Group Mobile Best of 2011 list is officially out!  Click here to read our selections for...

BEST All-Around Fully Rugged Laptop

Most Versatile Fully Rugged Laptop

BEST Outdoor Display in a Fully Rugged Laptop

BEST Wireless Fully Rugged Laptop

BEST Integrated GPS in a Fully Rugged Laptop

BEST Bargain in a Semi Rugged Laptop

And More!

Happy New Year!

 

And don't forget to watch for our Best of 2011 Rugged Computing Guide.

(Until then, click here to read our Best of 2010 list.)

Getac V200 Fully Rugged Convertible Closeout Specials

Getac V200 Fully Rugged Convertible with 4GB RAM, 2MP Bottom Camera, & High Power WiFi - While Supplies Last!
Take advantage of reduced pricing on the fully rugged Getac V200 convertible notebook. This model includes an Intel i7 processor, 4GB RAM, 320GB hard drive, 1200 NITs touchscreen display, 802.11 wireless, Bluetooth, bottom 2MP camera, and 5-year warranty!  Order here.
MSRP $4,299. Group Mobile's price $3,299!


Getac V200 Fully Rugged Convertible with GPS, Gobi, & Pass-Through - Ready for Immediate Shipment!
Take advantage of reduced pricing on the fully rugged Getac V200 convertible notebook. This model includes an Intel i7 processor, 4GB RAM, 320GB hard drive, 1200 NITs touchscreen display, backlit keyboard, 802.11 wireless, Bluetooth, Gobi, GPS, pass-through antenna, 2MP camera, and 5-year warranty!  Order here.
MSRP $4,849. Group Mobile's price $4249 — Save $600!

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

Happy Holidays from Group Mobile!

With the Holiday season in full swing, we wanted to take a moment to thank you, our customers, for your business, your trust, and your loyalty.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

And don't forget to watch for our Best of 2011 Rugged Computing Guide

at the start of 2012.

(Until then, click here to read our Best of 2010 list.)

Getac B300 Fully Rugged Laptop - Closeouts!

The Getac B300 fully rugged notebook computer is truly a road warrior. This laptop's standard configuration includes many impressive features such as a sunlight viewable display, Intel® Core™ i5 2.5GHz processor and 2GB RAM for amazing speed and performance, Bluetooth® and 802.11n for connectivity, a backlit keyboard for working in dark environments, and a 5-year bumper-to-bumper warranty! With an extensive list of security, power and connectivity options, as well as 22-hour battery life (with dual battery option), the Getac B300 rugged notebook is designed for a productive, worry-free mobile computing experience.


Check out these configurations on closeout...

• Getac B300 Fully Rugged Notebook
• Getac B300 Fully Rugged Notebook with SmartCard
• Getac B300 Fully Rugged Notebook with Gobi, Dual Pass, & GPS

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

Best Tablets for Under the Tree!

The Motion CL900 tablet PC is a rugged, lightweight, and powerfully equipped tablet that has been designed and built for mobile users. The CL900 offers a blend of performance, integrated features, and mobility. Every Motion CL900 tablet comes out of the box ready to work. Weighing just 2.1 pounds, the CL900 helps users work faster, smarter, and more effectively, providing the capabilities, applications, and ergonomic ease-of-use mobile users need to be productive while on the go. Read more...

DT Research Tablets offer vibrant touch displays and high performance yet energy-efficient Intel® Atom™ processors within slim, light, and durable housings. DT Research tablets feature options for RFID, smart card, and magnetic stripe readers, barcode scanners, and integrated cameras. These versatile tablets also offer Wi-Fi 802.11 wireless connectivity to enhance work efficiency. The sizes of the touch displays vary among models to accommodate a wide variety of uses — on the sales floor, in the warehouse, in the field, and in the classroom. For outdoor use, optional sunlight-readable displays are available on all models. Read more...

The GD Itronix Duo-Touch II fully rugged tablet has an Intel Core Duo and 1GB RAM. It also features an 8.4" sunlight-viewable, dual mode touchscreen, which combines the functionality of a touchscreen computer (finger touch input) with a digitizer computer (stylus pen input) into one display. The GD Itronix Duo-Touch II is lightweight and ergonomic, enabling one-handed operation. The Duo-Touch II is also fully rugged (MIL-STD-810F, IP54) which means it has standard rugged computer features such as a magnesium alloy casing, a shock mounted hard drive, and  fully-sealed ports. Read more...


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

Spotlight on the Xplore iX104C5 Rugged Tablet Computer

The Xplore iX104C5 DM (Dual Mode) rugged tablet is a great solution for warehousing, manufacturing, transportation, field service, and other front-line applications where workers require rugged, reliable mobile computing systems to complete job tasks, execute program objectives, and deliver superior service to their customers.


Featuring the newest Intel® Core™ i7 processor, 2GB of RAM, and an 80GB solid state drive, the iX104C5 DM offers superior performance. The iX105C5 DML also offers integrated WLAN 802.11a/b/g/n and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity and optional GPS and Gobi™ 2000.  Read More...

View the iX104C5 Models:
Xplore iX104C5 DM
Xplore iX104C5 DMSR
Xplore iX104C5 DML

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

Current Hard Drive Shortage

Recent flooding in Thailand has created an estimated six to nine month backlog on hard drive components essential to the configuration of some laptop and tablet computers sold by Group Mobile. For this reason, we recommend ordering early for any fulfillment needed in the first quarter of 2012. We also suggest considering current in-stock configurations as alternatives to any custom builds you may be planning to purchase in the future.

If you have any inquiries regarding upcoming 2012 procurement or would like to check inventory on a particular model or configuration, please contact us at 1-866-RUGGED8 or product-sales@groupmobile.com.

Blazing Fast 4G LTE Wireless Technology

Panasonic now offers optional 4G LTE technology for Verizon and AT&T on select Toughbook rugged computers. 4G LTE provides for lightning fast wireless connectivity, allowing users to quickly and securely send and receive bandwidth-intensive data. LTE (Long Term Evolution) is the gold standard for wireless technology worldwide. 4G LTE provides speeds that are up to ten times faster than 3G and significantly reduced lag times to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and maximize productivity. Check out the Toughbooks with this exciting new technology below...

Toughbook 31 Fully Rugged Laptop

The Panasonic Toughbook 31 is a leader in the fully rugged laptop category offering unrivaled ruggedness, drop shock protection (sustains drops from up to six feet), and certification exceeding MIL-STD-810G. Read More...

Toughbook H2 Fully Rugged Tablet
The new rugged Panasonic Toughbook® H2 rugged tablet is an ideal productivity tool for mobile workers. The Toughbook H2 weighs only 3.5 pounds and is designed to protect against environmental conditions and accidental situations, such as bumps, drops, or exposure to wind, heat, and rain. Read More...

Toughbook 53 Semi-Rugged Notebook
The Toughbook 53 semi-rugged notebook from Panasonic features a 14" HD LED display, the latest Intel® Core™ processors and an oversized multi-touch touchpad. This semi-rugged laptop performs like a desktop. Read More... 

Motion Computing CL900 SlateMate

The CL900 SlateMate with magstripe reader and barcode scanner transforms the CL900 into a mobile point-of-sale and data acquisition tool. Securely integrated into the internal frame of the CL900, SlateMate offers extendability, durability and productivity in a small, lightweight device. For retailers, SlateMate's integrated MSR ensures easy deployments in point-of-sale environments while the commercial-grade BCS reads virtually any barcode for rapid inventory status and availability information. As SlateMate is designed as a seamless extension of the CL900, it offers the benefits of integrated tools without the need for third-party devices.  Click here to read more about the SlateMate.



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

New DT Research Economical Tablets

WebDT 312 Tablet 
The WebDT 312 features a 10.4-inch touchscreen display and weighs just over two pounds. It is powered by an energy-efficient Intel® Atom™ processor, 1GB RAM, and 2GB flash storage for speed and performance. It has integrated Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n and Bluetooth® to help users stay connected while on the job. Read More... 

WebDT 390 Tablet

The WebDT 390 has an 8.9-inch touchscreen display and weighs only 2.43 pounds. It is designed to MIL-STD-810G and IP64 specifications to protect against environmental conditions and accidents, such as bumps, drops, or exposure to dust and water. The DT390 is powered by an Intel® Atom™ processor, 1GB RAM, and 2GB flash storage for speed and performance. Read More... 

WebDT 362 Tablet

The WebDT 362 features an 8.4-inch touchscreen display and weighs under two pounds. It is powered by an energy-efficient Intel® Atom™ processor, 1GB RAM, and 2GB flash storage for speed and performance. It has integrated Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n and Bluetooth® to help users stay connected while on the job. Read More...

WebDT 372 Tablet

The WebDT 372 has a 7-inch touchscreen display and weighs just 2.43 pounds. This rugged tablet and is designed to MIL-STD-810G and to IP64 specifications to protect against environmental conditions and accidental situations, such as bumps, drops, or exposure to dust and water.  It is powered by an Intel® Atom™ processor, 2GB RAM, and 2GB flash storage for speed and performance. Read More...

Group Mobile Customer Service Survey

Please click the link below to participate in our quick Customer Service survey. One lucky respondent will win a $100 Visa Gift Card!

Take the Survey Now!

This survey will take no more than 5 minutes of your time and the feedback will be used to improve customer service and product offerings, create more relevant newsletter content and update the Group Mobile website.

Thank you in advance for your participation!

The Team at

Save Over $1,000 on the GD Itronix Duo-Touch II Tablet

Original SRP $3,595. Group Mobile's price $2,399!

 Group Mobile is excited to offer big savings on  General Dynamics Itronix Duo-Touch II rugged tablet! While supplies last, you can save over $1,000 on select configurations of rugged Duo-Touch II.  

This rugged tablet has an Intel Core Duo 1.2GHz processor and 1GB RAM. It also  features an 8.4" DynaVue display with dual mode touchscreen, which combines the functionality of a touchscreen computer (finger touch input) with a digitizer computer (stylus pen input) into one display. The sunlight viewable DynaVue® display provides better outdoor viewability than 1,000 NIT alternatives without sacrificing battery life or processing performance.    

Weighing just 4.1lbs, the GD Itronix Duo-Touch II is lightweight and ergonomic, enabling one-handed operation. The Duo-Touch II is also fully rugged (MIL-STD-810F, IP54) which means it has standard rugged computer features such as a magnesium alloy casing, a shock mounted hard drive, and most importantly fully-sealed ports to protect it from outside elements such as dust, rain, and moisture. Read More...   

General Dynamics Itronix GD8200 Rugged Laptop

The GD Itronix GD8200 is a fully rugged notebook that is small and lightweight. It is designed for the toughest users and tested to military extremes, including temperature extremes, humidity, vibration, dust, drops, and spills. It is an ideal rugged notebook for military personnel, first responders, and field service technicians in industries such as utilities, telecommunications, and cable. The GD8200 provides the dependability, power, connectivity, and security necessary to provide the highest performance and endurance in extreme environments. Read more here!

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

New Semi-Rugged Tablet from GD Itronix

Group Mobile has added the new GD3015 semi-rugged tablet to its product offerings. The latest tablet PC from GD Itronix delivers the full functionality of a notebook with the critical components and options mobile professionals need working in public safety, utilities, transportation, warehousing, and industry field services.

The durable GD3015 tablet computer is rated IP54 for dust and water resistance and meets or exceeds MIL-STD-810F for shock vibration, rain, sand, and dust. The GD3015 can stand up to the dirt and weather of field environments, while taking bumps in the road, or falls from a tailgate. The large 10.4" touch screen is easy-to-use, and at just 2.6lbs., this lightweight tablet with sunlight-viewable display supports outdoor personnel productivity. The GD3015 semi-rugged tablet is powered by an Intel® Atom Z530 1.6GHz processor and 2GB DDR3 RAM. It features a 160GB shock-mounted hard disk drive with an option to upgrade to a solid state drive.

The GD3015 semi-rugged tablet supports a rich variety of data collection and communications technologies to keep mobile users connected and increase productivity. WLAN, 802.11b/g/n, and Bluetooth® v2.0 are standard features on the GD3015. Optional 3G wireless and GPS capabilities can also be added to the GD3015 for greater wireless connectivity and location information.

The modular design of the GD3015 allows users to add barcode scanners and RFID capabilities to automate data collection in warehouses, on loading docks, or cargo containers. A magnetic stripe reader can also be added to scan ID or payment cards. An optional 2MP camera allows users to easily include photos or video with accident reports or insurance claims.

The GD3105 semi-rugged tablet computer can be ordered from Group Mobile now. For more information on the rugged GD Itronix GD3015, visit http://www.groupmobile.com/product.asp/sku=5529/dept_id=/mf_id=7.

Do Rugged Computers Cost More or Less?

On a fairly frequent basis, Group Mobile provides a price quotation to a prospective customer on a ruggedized computer…and when we follow-up the prospect says something like, "Well, the decision was made to buy commercial computers since the ruggedized computers were higher in price. We felt like we could save quite a bit of money and if the plastic computers break, we can just buy new ones and we would still save money over buying ruggedized equipment."

Then invariably, a few weeks or months later, the same person calls back and says something like, "I guess we are ready for those ruggedized computers now. We tried the commercial plastic computers and they were failing every couple of weeks. Our guys were 'down' and without their computers for days at a time. It was costing us a fortune in lost productivity, not to mention the hassle of losing data and having to constantly re-load our software on the repaired computers."

So why does this scenario repeat itself over and over again? We can only blame ourselves…the people who are involved in manufacturing and selling rugged, mobile computers. We have not done a great job of educating people about the necessity of ruggedization when using a computer in a vehicle, in a factory, in a warehouse, in a service bay, or out in the field. Construction companies, utility departments, service, repair, inspection, delivery companies, police departments, etc, think nothing about spending thousands of dollars for the equipment specialized for their job or their business, but balk when it comes to buying specialized computers. They are just not fully aware that commercial grade computers are not designed for vehicle, warehouse or field use.

We all know that there is a difference in price and cost. The price is what you pay up front for an item. The cost is what you spend over the course of the life of the item. Rugged computers are priced higher but cost less. The primary reasons for this are less down time, less lost data, fewer repair costs and increased worker productivity. Obviously, this is only true when said computers are to be used in or on a vehicle, in a dusty dirty environment, in a hot or cold environment, outdoors, or on-site. In every job there is a right and a wrong tool for the job. Commercial portable computers are perfect for indoor, white-collar, taking home at night, or flying on a business trip. Rugged mobile computers are the right tools for those with jobs in demanding environments. Rugged computers actually cost less! Read More...