CORVALLIS, Ore.—Tripod Data SystemsTM (TDS) today released the next generation of its popular TDS Ranger™ rugged handheld computer. The new Ranger features available integrated Bluetooth and 802.11b wireless capabilities along with two CompactFlash (CF) slots and a Secure Digital (SD) slot for unprecedented expandability.
The next-generation Ranger also offers a faster, more powerful Intel XScale processor and more RAM, while retaining separate navigation, alpha and numeric keypads. As with all TDS rugged handhelds, the Ranger continues to meet 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.
"When TDS launched the original Ranger in 2000, it was the first Windows-based handheld to offer military-grade durability," said Bill Martin, president of TDS. "Users have come to rely on the Ranger to work dependably and keep their data safe in the roughest weather and work environments. After five years and feedback from tens of thousands of real-world users, we've built in more processing power, along with new wireless and expansion capabilities to keep the next-generation Ranger first in its field."
"TDS has been a valued partner in bringing the convenience of Windows Mobile to professionals working in harsh outdoor environments," said Chris Hill, group product manager, Mobile & Embedded Devices Division at Microsoft Corp. "The next-generation Ranger with Windows Mobile gives users a familiar, easy-to-use platform that can easily adapt to their work applications."TDS will offer two base models for the Ranger. The Ranger 300X comes with a 312 MHz Intel XScale processor, 64 MB of SDRAM and 256 MB of embedded Flash . The Ranger 500X comes with a 520 MHz processor, 128 MB of SDRAM and 512 MB of embedded Flash . 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 models.
Both Ranger models come with two CompactFlash slots and a Secure Digital memory slot, plus a standard 9-pin serial port and a high-speed USB port for connecting to a PC. The standard 6600 mAh lithium-ion rechargeable battery powers the Ranger for 30 hours under normal operating conditions.
Availability
The two Ranger models are available immediately from a wide network of TDS authorized dealers and value-added resellers. Multiple software bundles, as well as wireless and memory options, are also available. Users can find complete specifications, along with a directory of dealers and resellers, at www.tdsway.com.
About Tripod Data Systems
Tripod Data Systems (TDS) designs and manufactures mobile computing systems for extreme outdoor and industrial environments. The rugged TDS Recon™ and Ranger handheld computers help users collect accurate field data and work more productively in survey, public safety, field service, utilities, military and other outdoor or service-related applications. Both TDS handhelds meet military specifications for drops, vibration, immersion and temperature extremes, and with an IP67 rating, they are impervious to water and dust.
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 [email protected] or call 541-752-9000.
Tripod Data Systems, Ranger and Recon are trademarks of Tripod Data Systems. Windows and the Windows logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
