MOBILE COMPUTER BUYER'S GUIDE

How Do Mobile Computers Work?

Mobile Computers are handheld computing devices that allow barcode scanning, data collection, and more with the freedom of movement of a cordless, compact device. Mobile computers can be used simply for batch data collection or with more advanced features, such as Bluetooth wireless, phone, email, Windows operating systems, and more, for a complete mobile computer and data collection unit.

The first step in determining what mobile computer works best for you is determinig your mobile computing activities in the field. Ask yourself the following questions when beginning your mobile computer search.

• Will batch memory collection fit my needs, or do I need wireless connection ability, such as Bluetooth?
  
• What type of key pad layout do I need? A full alphanumeric pad? Numeric only pad? Or a more abreviated control system?
  
• Is size an issue? Take into account whole unit size, screen size, and button size.


• What level of ruggedness do I need? What kind of environment will the mobile computer be used in? Indoors or Outdoors, or Both? Warm or Cold climate? Bright or Low Lighting?
  
• What kind of memory capabilities do I need?
  
• Is a color screen important, or will monochromatic work as well?

Once you have answered these questions, find computers on the mobile computer comparison chart below.

Symbol

MC35

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

MC50

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

MC70

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

MC1000

X

X

X

MC3000

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

MC9000

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

PPT 8800/8846

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Janam

XP 20/30

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Aceeca

BCS2

X

X

X

X

X

X

Unitech

PA500

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

PA600

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

PA962/963

X

X

X

X

HHP

Dolphin 9500

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Intermec

CN3

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Datalogic

Memor

X

X

X

X

X

X

Pegaso

X

X

X

X

X

X

Skorpio

X

X

X

X

X

X