Motorola designs fixed-mount mobile computer

The Enterprise Mobility business from Motorola Inc. has announced its new VC6096 in-vehicle/fixed-mount mobile computer – a rugged all-in-one solution. The VC6096 extends the breadth of Motorola’s rugged mobile computer offerings, the company says, with functionality to help maximize driver productivity, reduce costs and improve customer service – and to withstand the rigors of everyday use on the road.

The VC6096 is about the size of a laptop and weighs about five pounds. It has 3.5G wireless connectivity on the GSM network for voice and data capabilities and is compatible with a range of portable devices through wireless connectivity options Bluetooth and 802.11 and its Windows Mobile 6.1 operating system. It comes with a VGA screen that measures 6.5 inches diagonally and a keyboard designed for data entry with a gloved hand, the company says.

The company says the VC6096 vehicle/fixed-mount mobile computer – which is expected to be available in the fourth quarter of 2008 – enables the collection of mileage, location, driver performance, vehicle metrics, hours of service and arrival and departure times.

“The VC6096 improves the efficiency of mobile workers on the road with real-time connectivity and instant communication – when and where they need it,” says Brian Viscount, vice president of mobile computing for Motorola’s Enterprise Mobility business. “By enabling organizations to more quickly, easily and accurately capture relevant driver and vehicle data, enterprises will reduce paperwork and increase efficiency by automating the driver logs, time cards and highway fuel tax reports.”

The new VC6096 also integrates with the vehicle’s SAE J1708 and SAE J1939 networks to monitor and collect engine operation information automatically, the company says; it also can provide information on the driving patterns of mobile workers to identify safety issues, eliminate unnecessary wear and tear on vehicles and minimize fuel consumption. In addition, the new VC6096, unlike proprietary solutions, offers an open platform that allows customers to select and control applications and peripherals that best meet their business needs, according to Motorola.

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To help customers protect their investment and significantly reduce unforeseen repair expenses, Motorola Enterprise Mobility Services offers “Service from the Start with Comprehensive Coverage” for the VC6096; from the first day of the hardware purchase, no matter what is damaged – from broken displays and keypads to other internal and external components – the repair is covered.