TDS Recon

For most consumers, the final decision in a Windows Mobile device purchase is based upon a number of hardware and form factors. Is it thin, lightweight, and small, for example? For some, however, what makes all the difference is whether the device can function in less-than-ideal work environments.

For workers operating a handheld in conditions that put the device at risk, a necessary keyword to add to the selection requirements is “rugged.” When the job requires work outdoors or in warehouses or machine shops, the Windows Mobile device must be able to withstand the commonplace accidents and day-to-day operations.

TDS Recon with Windows Mobile 2003

Tripod Data Systems (TDS, http://www.tdsway.com), a Corvallis, Oregon-based company that has provided hardware and software to a number of extreme outdoor and industrial environments for over 15 years, has recognized the need for the combination of hardware durability and the Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC operating system in creating the TDS Recon. The rugged Windows Mobile device is built to provide the power of the best Pocket PCs with the resilience of the toughest industrial equipment around.

The TDS Recon Package

The review unit I received was the TDS Recon 400 with the standard features and accessories. The unit itself uses a 400 MHz Intel XScale processor with 64 MB of RAM and 128 MB of built-in nonvolatile Flash storage. A lower priced model is also available with a 200 MHz XScale processor, 64 MB of RAM and 64 MB of built-in nonvolatile Flash storage. Both units are power by a 3800 mAh, detachable, rechargeable PowerBoot Module (more on this shortly).

The unit operates under the Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC operating system and comes with the standard software (Pocket Word, Pocket Excel, Inbox, etc).

The package also included an AC charger, USB data cable, two specialized stylus pens, User’s Guide and CD-ROM. TDS was also nice enough to supply an optional carrying case and AA PowerBoot Module.

The TDS PowerBoot Module

One of the key features of the TDS Recon is the removable PowerBoot Module functionality. This part of the unit serves three purposes:

• Provides a rechargeable power supply for the unit;
• Provides standard, rugged, field replaceable serial, USB and power connections.
• Provides an autonomous spare battery recharging capability when disconnected from Recon.