Although none of the machines are expected to be either as eye-catching or as well marketed as the top-tier ultrabooks from Dell, HP, Lenovo and others, what they will have in their favor is affordability. Intel is pushing for $599 to $649 machines, accounting for around 6- to 7-percent of the notebook market overall in 2012.

The new models are coming in Q2 2012, the sources say, as part of a 15m 2012 push for second-tier vendors as the ultrabook market takes off.

Meanwhile, Quanta Computer – believed to be manufacturing HP’s ultrabook for the company – has apparently bought its own CNC machines so that it can create unibody casings in-house. The investment is being seen as an attempt to cut manufacturing costs, reducing the need to outsource chassis production. Rival Wistron, though, is apparently looking to non-metal options, which would open the door to alternative color ultrabooks.

McCutchan will be revealing the “Move Server project that will make it possible for academics and hobbyists to develop software using the PlayStation Move controller on their own PCs” as well as looking at how the Move Shooter accessory can be accommodated. The project appears to be Sony’s attempt to kick start sanctioned hacking of the Move, perhaps in similar ways to how we’ve seen Microsoft’s Kinect and, before then, Nintendo’s Wii used in non-standard ways.

[via Engadget]

There’s also WiFI a/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0, GPS, and a battery good for up to eight hours of use. RAM is 2GB and there’s a choice of 30GB or 62GB SSD along with dual cameras. Motion also offer a range of accessories, including a docking station – complete with a pen holder, ethernet and a USB hub – and a card-reader (that makes the CL900 look a little like a microwave).

Perhaps most impressive of all is the price, which will kick off at under $1,000 when the CL900 goes on sale in Q2 2011. That may not make it the cheapest tablet around, but this is a full Windows 7 machine designed for mobile pros after all.

Press Release:

Motion Announces its First Ultra-Light, Rugged Tablet PC with Versatile Flexibility

The new Motion CL900 offers dual touch and stylus input, a rugged design and robust connectivity for on-the-go collaboration

AUSTIN, Texas and LAS VEGAS – January 5, 2011 – Motion®, a leading global provider of tablet PCs and supporting mobility solutions, announced today from the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), its first small form factor, rugged tablet PC designed for productivity and business integration. The Motion® CL900 is a robust tablet with a flexible feature set that enables access to and utilization of data while mobile. Motion will be showcasing the tablet PC at the Hilton Las Vegas (LVCC), Suite #377, offering media and analysts the option to take video, preview and experience the tablet throughout CES. The CL900 is expected to be available early in the second quarter of 2011.

Architected for Versatility
The new Motion CL900 is built based on customer demand for a mobile and integrated device that offers the capabilities to support mobile workflows. Architected for future expansion, the CL900 will feature a peripheral module that will enable simple device expansion. Tightly secured and integrated into the device, the peripheral module will incorporate key documentation tools without compromising durability. Peripheral modules will be released later in 2011.

Connected, Light and Rugged
The rugged F5v Tablet PC and C5v MCA now feature the Intel® Core™ i7 or Core™ i5 vPro™ technology, enabling a significant improvement in performance and battery life over previous solutions. Additionally, incorporating Intel Core vPro technology will enable Motion customers to experience:

Up to eight hours of battery life for all-day, uninterrupted productivity
Lightweight and rugged design that offers the protection of the MIL-STD-810G specification (four foot drop test) at only 2.1 pounds and less than 16mm thick
IP-52 rated exterior to protect against dust, moisture and other elements
Optional integrated Gobi™ 3000 mobile broadband with GPS, 802.11 a/b/g/n WLAN, Bluetooth® 3.0, and a wireless SIM port for advanced communications
Display with Corning® Gorilla® Glass display for added durability and scratch resistance and incorporated DuPont Vertak™ to improve visibility in various lighting conditions
Built for Business Integration
The CL900 was designed to integrate seamlessly into business environments. Running Microsoft® Windows® 7 and powered by the upcoming Intel® Atom™ processor currently codenamed “Oak Trail”, the CL900 balances power, performance and battery life. Additionally, IT serviceability and enterprise support options help ensure uptime and reduce IT resource drain. Business benefits include:

The ability to run existing applications, lowering the cost of deployment
The performance needed to simultaneously run multiple enterprise applications
Bright display that offers the convenience of both touch and stylus input
30GB or 62GB solid state drive (SSD), and up to 2GB of RAM
The new Intel Atom processor is specifically designed for tablet PCs and mobile workflows that require a balance of productivity and battery life. An enhanced version of the Atom line of processors, “Oak Trail” will offer the responsiveness, security and manageability required for mobile users in business environments.

“Motion’s latest tablet is a perfect example of the power and productivity available in enterprise-based mobility solutions,” said René Torres, director of marketing, Netbook and Tablet Group, Intel. “With the power and performance of our upcoming ‘Oak Trail’ Intel Atom processor, along with the mobility and durability of the CL900, Motion is delivering an ideal productivity tool for workers on the move.”

Versatile and Configurable
Additionally, the unique design of the CL900 offers multiple optional features and connectivity ports to improve functionality for a variety of different uses. Documentation and expansion features include:

Front and rear-facing cameras to support documentation, video conferencing and collaboration
A full complement of ports, including USB, SD Card, audio and video to simplify the use of industry standard peripheral solutions
A unique countertop docking station that optimizes the CL900 for touch input and adds a simple and easy way to integrate peripherals
A variety of cases and straps to accommodate multiple usage patterns
Powerful and Affordable
With a planned starting MSRP of less than U.S. $1000 the CL900 offers a competitive entry price point to other tablet PCs with a unique, rugged design that supports a lower total cost of ownership over non-rugged devices. The CL900 will be available to ship early in the second quarter of 2011 while the optional peripheral module will be available later in the first half of the year. For more information on the CL900 or to register for product updates, please visit the CL900 Product Page.

From what we’ve seen of Kinect, Microsoft’s upcoming motion-based gaming peripheral, there’s a lot going on. Kicking, leaning, slapping the air, and whatever else game developers can think of to include in their titles. But, what about sitting on the couch? We know that that’s not Microsoft’s main goal, but obviously you’re not going to want to stand on your feet for all that long, playing your favorite running game (…), so we expect to still use Kinect while we’re taking a rest. And, sure enough, Microsoft has confirmed that the Kinect software fully supports folks as they sit on their favorite chair or couch, or whatever else they might be sitting on.

But, there’s a catch. (Isn’t there always?) It is going to be up to the game developers out there, apparently, whether or not a specific game, and not Kinect itself, supports you sitting on your rump to play that particular title. Basically, the experience has to be developed with sitting in mind. So, it sounds like you won’t be able to cheat (or sit) your way through those Kinect Adventures segments, after all.

So, are there experiences out there right now that are designed with sitting in mind? Sure there are. Navigating through the Xbox 360′s Dashboard, or example, is perfectly suited for you to take a break. Also, making your way through ESPN, Zune, and Video apps is also plenty capable of having you sit through the experience. Truth be told, we are perfectly happy with this result. The idea of playing Kinect while sitting on the couch, at least for most of the games they’ve shown so far (outside of Kinectimals) require you to actually stand up and be involved to truly enjoy it, so we’re glad that it’s going to be up to developers on how we interact with our titles.

[via Joystiq]

Up to a 160GB HDD or 128GB SSD are on offer, together with integrated Gobi 2000 WWAN, and there’s a 3-megapixel camera too.  As for the display, there are multiple options including indoor/outdoor versions and GorillaGlass toughened versions; all support both active digitizer and capacitive multitouch control.

GottaBeMobile spent a few days with the Motion J3500 and shot the following video demo of it in action.  It’s fair to say it’s a niche device – it’s also pretty heavy, too, thanks to all that ruggedization – and definitely not cheap (think around $3k), but if your needs extend to a little more than a “big iPod touch” then it may be worth a look.

Press Release:

Motion Launches the J3500 Rugged Tablet PC

Enhancements include advanced Intel® Core™ vPro™ processors, and a host of new options including dual touch technology, durable Gorilla™ glass and expanded storage capabilities

AUSTIN, Texas – June 22, 2010 – Motion Computing®, a leading provider of integrated mobile computing solutions, today announced the J3500 tablet PC. Built on the Motion® J-Series line of tablet PCs, the J3500 features Intel® Core™ vPro™ processors for enhanced performance, security and manageability. The J3500 also offers a variety of integrated features including touch technology, Gorilla™ glass, and expanded storage options.

New Capacitive Dual Touch
The J3500 with capacitive dual touch enables mobile workers to take advantage of the natural gesture navigation features built in Windows® 7 and other software applications. Optimized for digitizer and touch input, users can navigate touch-enabled software applications or legacy programs with smaller targets that require the accuracy of pen input. For more flexibility, palm rejection technology distinguishes between intentional and false touch while stylus recognition enables users to easily switch between input modes.

“Motion has long been recognized as an innovator in tablet computing, and is again offering new ways for enterprise users to enhance productivity through multiple interaction methods,” said Eddie O’Brien, VP Microsoft OEM. “Now, mobile workers can take full advantage of tablet computing, benefitting from the accuracy of pen input and the convenience of natural gestures, enhancing productivity as they navigate applications in the field.”

Enhanced Integrated Features
The J3500 also offers new features to help improve productivity and durability across Motion’s target vertical markets such as construction, field service and healthcare, including:

Extra-durable Corning Gorilla™ glass, offering up to a 4 times improvement in breakage resistance1, and new anti-smear coating for improved visibility
Enhanced system storage, with available 160GB hard disk drive (HDD), and 64GB or 128GB solid state drive (SSD) options and up to 4GB of RAM
Improved 3.0 megapixel documentation camera
Integrated Gobi2000™ mobile broadband with GPS
“Governments today must empower an extensive mobile workforce that depends on accessing information whenever and wherever,” said Darrell Lewis, VP of Product Management at Accela, Inc. “With Accela Mobile Office™ software running on the J3500, field workers in areas such as permitting, licensing, code enforcement, and public works, can take advantage of enhanced mobile computing capabilities in a sleek, rugged device.”

Intel Core vPro for Enhanced Performance, Security and Manageability
Now with Intel® Core™ i7 or Core™ i5 vPro™ technology, the J3500 offers a significant improvement in performance and enables Motion customers to experience:

Enhanced remote management capabilities enabling IT technicians to repair and secure the PC from any location, even while powered-down or in sleep mode, enabling greater levels of energy efficiency and streamlined maintenance processes
Increased security with fully manageable hard drive encryption, and Intel® Anti-Theft technology used with Computrace®, protecting valuable data in case of loss or theft
Improved multitasking with smart technology that adjusts processor speed to support workload changes, providing power when needed and working more efficiently when possible
“Enterprises have embraced the J-Series line of Motion Tablet PCs based on their flexibility, performance, mobility and durability,” said Mike Stinson, Vice President of Marketing, Motion Computing. “With the J3500, we extend the enterprise benefits with a tablet PC solution that is powerful, durable, multi-functional and mobile, enabling mobile workers to significantly improve productivity and collaboration through real-time access to enterprise data in the field.”

Enterprise-Ready, Durable Tablet PCs
Tested to withstand harsh mobile work environments, the rugged and flexible J3500 Tablet PC meets MIL-STD-810G and IP-52 ratings to ensure protection against bumps, drops, rain or other conditions that can damage commercial-grade computing solutions. Additionally, the dual hot-swappable battery solution extends the computing day and enables easy replacement of charged batteries without interruption. Built to fit seamlessly into enterprise environments, Motion’s complete line of tablet PCs utilize either the Windows® 7 or Windows XP operating system, reducing the burden on IT and enabling mobile workers to manage the same applications available to office-based employees.

Availability
The new Motion J3500 is now available through Motion’s network of value-added resellers and distributors. For more information or to find a certified Motion reseller visit Motion’s Channel Resources page.

The F5v is Motion’s “mobile field tool” intended for outdoor users who need a machine that not only holds up to bumps but recognizes handwriting and runs all the usual Windows 7 apps.  Meanwhile the C5v is the “mobile clinical assistant”, and can be specified with a hospital-friendly digital camera, RFID scanner and barcode reader.

Both have standard Gorilla glass, apparently up to four times stronger than regular display glass, integrated handles, WiFi and Bluetooth as standard and optional Gobi 2000 WWAN.  There’s also an optional View Anywhere display for outdoor use.  Pricing kicks off at $2,548 for the Motion F5v and $2,299 for the Motion C5v.

Press Release:

Motion Launches New Line of Rugged Tablet PCs Offering Enhanced Power, Performance and Integrated Features

Motion’s F5v Mobile Field Tool and C5v Mobile Clinical Assistant (MCA) are industry’s first slate tablet PCs to integrate advanced Intel® Core™ vPro™ processors

AUSTIN, Texas – May 19, 2010 – Motion Computing®, a leading provider of integrated mobile computing solutions, today announced the industry’s first slate tablet PCs with Intel® Core™ vPro™ processors, offering new levels of performance, security and manageability. Built on the company’s proven line of tablet PCs, Motion’s F5v and C5v meet the needs of mobile workforces across industries, and now feature enhanced integrated features, connectivity and durability.

“From its inception, Motion has delivered tablet PC solutions that address the needs of a highly mobile workforce,” said Mike Stinson, Vice President of Marketing, Motion Computing. “Today we extend that leadership with the introduction of the industry’s most advanced purpose-built slate tablet PCs that offer mobility, power and durability.”

Powerful Performance

The rugged F5v Tablet PC and C5v MCA now feature the Intel® Core™ i7 or Core™ i5 vPro™ technology, enabling a significant improvement in performance and battery life over previous solutions. Additionally, incorporating Intel Core vPro technology will enable Motion customers to experience:

Enhanced remote management capabilities enabling IT technicians to repair and secure the PC from any location, even while powered-down or in sleep mode, enabling greater levels of energy efficiency and streamlined maintenance processes
Increased security with fully manageable hard drive encryption, and Intel® Anti-Theft technology used with Computrace®, protecting valuable data in case of loss or theft
Improved multitasking with smart technology that adjusts processor speed to support workload changes, providing power when needed and working more efficiently when possible
“Motion tablets with the 2010 Intel Core vPro processors adapt to the needs of mobile workforces with smart security, cost-saving manageability, and intelligent performance,” said Brian Tucker, Director of Marketing, Business Client Platform Division at Intel. “Now enterprises can take advantage of the powerful applications and rich user experiences available with today’s technology.”

Built on Proven Technology

Motion’s next-generation C5v and F5v Tablet PCs are based on the company’s proven line of rugged tablets that are in use by mobile professionals worldwide. New features to further increase productivity, connectivity and durability for enhanced mobile experiences include:

Hot-swap battery feature for easy replacement of charged batteries without interruption
System storage enhancements, featuring a powerful 160GB HDD and up to 4GB of RAM
Extra-durable Corning Gorilla™ glass, now standard, offering up to a 4 times improvement in breakage resistance1, with new anti-smear coating for improved visibility
Enhanced optional, integrated 3.0 megapixel documentation camera and new web camera for improved communication and collaboration capabilities
Integrated Gobi2000™ mobile broadband supporting multi-mode 3G mobile Internet access on either HSPA or CDMA2000® EV-DO networks in markets around the world
Enterprise-Ready, Highly Powerful, Durable and Mobile Tablet PCs

Tested to withstand even the harshest working environments, the C5v and F5v Tablet PCs meet MIL-STD-810G and IP-54 standards. Drop tested on 26 sides and fully sealed against dust and moisture, the tablet PCs are designed to withstand bumps, drops, rain or other conditions that can damage commercial-grade computing solutions. Additionally, the tablet PCs are enterprise-ready. Utilising either the Windows® 7 or Windows XP operating system, the C5v and F5v fit seamlessly into enterprise-environments, reducing the burden on IT and enabling mobile workers to manage the same applications available to office-based employees.

The Motion C5v MCA and F5v Mobile Field Tool

The next generation of the proven C5-Series and F5-Series Tablet PCs, the Motion C5v and F5v are tailored to mobile professionals across vertical industries such as healthcare, construction and field service. The tablet PCs are fully rugged yet lightweight, making them the ideal solution for workers who compute while walking or standing. Deployed across organisations worldwide, the tablet PCs are proving to enhance documentation, improve collaboration, and reduce process latencies. For more information visit the Products and Services page.

Apparently, developers can start making their own content for the new technology via the PS3 Software Development Kit. This SDK sports head tracking and face tracking abilities, giving developers quite a bit to work with just right there.

The new motion controller will also have force feedback rumble, voice input and voice recognition. Likewise, the PlayStation Eye can track four controllers at once. We still don’t know pricing or anything like that, but the new motion controllers are still expected by spring of next year.

The company has also added a new Core 2 Duo processor – the U7500 1.06GHz ULV – and given the F5 a new black exterior so that scuffs and dirt are less noticeable.  There’s also a new external battery charger, making all-day use more straightforward.

The new C5 is priced from $2,199 while the F5 is priced from $2,799; no word on pricing for the SSD, but the C5 with Verizon WWAN is $2,806 (which also gets you 2GB of RAM and the View Anywhere display) and the F5 is $3,107 (with 2GB RAM).  More details on the Motion C5 here, and on the Motion F5 here.

Press Release:

Motion’s F5 Rugged Tablet PC and C5 Mobile Clinical Assistant Now Available with Integrated Access to Verizon Wireless’ Mobile Broadband Network

The highly mobile devices also feature improved performance, expanded WiFi capabilities and a new solid state drive upgrade

AUSTIN, Texas and LAS VEGAS – April 1, 2009 – From CTIA Wireless 2009® – Motion Computing®, a leader in mobile computing and wireless communications, today announced that the F5 rugged tablet PC and the C5 Mobile Clinical Assistant (MCA) are available for use on the Verizon Wireless mobile broadband network. Additionally, Motion is announcing upgrades to the devices including enhanced performance, the latest WiFi technology and a new 64GB solid state drive (SSD) option.

Verizon Access Enables Broad Coverage
Motion’s C5 and F5 tablets are compliant under the Verizon Wireless open development program, which is designed to offer businesses and consumers the ability to use wireless devices, software and applications not offered by the company on its nationwide wireless network. With access to mobile broadband from Verizon Wireless integrated into the Motion C5 and F5, users can access email, download files and browse the Internet at broadband speed.

“Motion Computing is recognized for solutions that improve productivity for highly mobile users by creating devices that are designed to work the way the users do,” said Anthony A. Lewis, vice president of open development at Verizon Wireless. “Now with anytime access to the Verizon Wireless network, Motion tablet users, from hospitals to construction sites, can be more productive when away from the office.”

Tablet Upgrades Provide Improved Performance, Flexibility
Upgrades to the C5 and F5 include expanded communications capabilities with the Intel® WiFi Link 5300 series 802.11 a/g/draft-n, Intel Centrino® technology with the Intel® Core™2 Duo processor for improved performance and battery life, and a new 64GB SSD upgrade. An external battery charger is also now available for the C5 and F5, which enables users to quickly charge additional batteries for use throughout the workday.

The C5 Mobile Clinical Assistant Delivers Quality Care
The C5, the industry’s first MCA developed in collaboration with Intel®, is a hospital-grade device that is proven in healthcare environments. Now deployed in more than 4,000 healthcare organizations worldwide, the C5 has proven to enhance clinician satisfaction, improve point of care documentation, increase clinician productivity and improve clinical documentation accuracy. For more information visit the Motion C5 product page.

The F5 Mobile Field Tool Ideal for Rugged Working Environments
The F5, now with a black exterior to better withstand dirty and dusty mobile work environments, is a rugged tablet PC that provides electronic clipboard functionality and is an ideal solution for field workers who compute and enter data while standing or walking. Mobile professionals across construction, field sales and service and government are using the F5 because it provides the durability and functionality of a rugged PC without the extra weight and price associated with traditional, fully rugged devices. For more information visit the Motion F5 product page.

“Motion’s tablet PCs, used in combination with the Vela Systems construction field software, are significantly improving documentation processes by enabling access to important information on the jobsite,” said Josh Kanner, founder and vice president of Vela Systems. “Motion is continually improving and adapting their technology specifically to the needs of their users, and we’re excited about these recent enhancements that will help our clients further improve field productivity.”

Available Now
The F5 and the C5 with enhanced features and the external battery charger are available today through Motion’s network of resellers and distributors worldwide. For more information or to find a Motion reseller near you, visit Motion’s products and services page.

About Motion Computing
Motion Computing is a mobile computing and wireless communications leader, combining world-class innovation and industry experience so professionals in vertical industries such as healthcare, field sales and service and government can use computing technology in new ways and places. The company’s enhanced line of tablet PCs, mobile clinical assistants and accessories are designed to increase productivity for on-the-go users while providing portability, security, power and versatility. Motion combines those products with services and unique vertical market knowledge to deliver robust solutions – platforms, peripherals, services and wireless – customized for the needs of a particular industry. For more information, visit www.motioncomputing.com

Videos after the cut

The three videos below show drop, water and dust testing.  The titles are all pretty self-explanatory: first the J3400 gets hoisted up to 36-inches and dropped onto a hard surface, repeating this 26 times with only cosmetic damage, before being vigorously soaked.  Finally the J3400 spends eight hours in a dust box.  All of the tests take place with the Tablet powered-up.

If you’re convinced the Motion J3400 could withstand your frisky life, it’s available now with prices starting from $2,299.  Options include a choice of 1.2GHz or 1.4GHz Core 2 Duo ULV processors and a variety of SSD or HDD storage.

Motion J3400 drop-testing:

Motion J3400 water-testing:

Motion J3400 dust-testing:

[via GottaBeMobile]

Demo video & gallery of the J3400 after the cut

Considering the J3400 is less than an inch thick, Motion have packed in a lot.  Rob’s photos show not only the slate, but Motion’s accessories for it, including a desk stand “Flex Dock” and a clever folding “Mobile Keyboard”.  They’re priced at $299 and $149 respectively.

For the second part of Rob’s video overview, go here.  The Motion J3400 is available to order now, priced from $2,299.  It comes with a choice of Intel Core 2 Duo ULV processors, up to 4GB of RAM, and a 12.1-inch active-digitizer display with optional ViewAnywhere outdoor usability.

There’s also optional Qualcomm Gobi dual-mode WWAN connectivity, standard WiFi a/b/g/n, gigabit ethernet, optional Bluetooth 2.1 and an optional 2-megapixel autofocus camera with LED light.  Motion have given the J3400 dual battery bays, hot-swappable, which together promise all-day usability of up to 7.4hrs.

Of course, since it’s advertised as rugged you’d expect some stats to back that up, and Motion don’t disappoint.  The J3400 is compliant to MIL-STD-810F, meaning it’s good for a 3-foot drop together with being water, dust and splash resistant.  Storage is shock-mounted, as is the display which also has a chemically-strengthened glass layer.  The marvelously textured bottom (check out the gallery, you’ll see what I mean) is rubber-coated for shock dampening, and inside there’s a magnesium-alloy frame.

Despite all that, it’s relatively compact at 12.7 x 9.09 x 0.90 inches, and weighs 3.6lbs with a single battery or 4.0lbs with both in place.  Full specs here, and you can pick up the Motion J3400 from today with prices starting at $2,299.

Press Release:

Motion Launches the J3400 Rugged Tablet PC with All Day Battery Life and an Industry-Leading Bright Outdoor Display

Ideal for mobile workers the J3400 is a rugged, lightweight device with a dual battery design for all day computing

AUSTIN, TX – March 16, 2009 – Motion Computing®, a leader in mobile computing and wireless communications, today announced the latest in its line of rugged tablet PCs. Maximizing performance and flexibility, the J3400′s lightweight package, superior ergonomics and integrated features allow it to adapt easily to a broad range of demanding work environments. Ideal for mobile workers that compute while walking or standing, the J3400 extends the computing day with a dual battery design and shines with an industry-leading, bright outdoor display.

“The J3400 was developed based on more than seven years of tablet PC experience, and feedback from customers across industries,” said David Altounian, president and CEO, Motion Computing. “It is a mobile computing device with the capabilities our customers are demanding – a powerful processor with a compact rugged design that supports users who must be productive whether in the field or in the office.”

The J3400 joins Motion’s family of proven tablet PCs that meet the needs of mobile users across a variety of markets including healthcare, construction, field sales and service and government. Balancing performance, weight, durability and integrated features, Motion tablets have significantly enhanced mobile productivity by enabling users to take technology directly to the point of service.

“Motion is recognized for innovative solutions that can improve productivity with the ability to take technology to the point of service,” said Brian Tucker, business marketing manager, Mobile Platforms Group, Intel Corporation. “Intel’s Centrino 2 processor technology is the backbone in many thin and light concepts like the J3400′s innovative design with long battery life.”

Cianbro, a construction and service solutions provider, has significantly improved job site productivity with the use of Motion tablet PCs. The company plans to deploy the J3400s at Destiny USA, a first-class destination being built to operate 100 percent free of fossil fuels.

“At Cianbro, we’re excited about the advancements Motion has made with the J3400. The new features fit in well with our mobile computing needs,” said David Fay, Cianbro’s job site technology manager. “The bright screen, ruggedness and integrated camera will help us further improve productivity as we work to enable innovation in the construction industry through advanced technology.”

Rugged, Lightweight and Ergonomic Equal All Day Computing
Motion’s J3400 offers all of the durability and functionality of a rugged PC, without the extra weight and price associated with traditional fully rugged devices. The tablet PC features a hot-swappable dual battery feature for all day computing performance. Additionally, with its balanced design, integrated shoulder strap attach points, rounded corners and slip-free grip surface, it is easily carried throughout the day.
Motion’s unique design and internal frame that protects internal components without adding weight or thickness allows for the J3400′s rugged design and light weight. The tablet PC is IP-52 rated and meets MIL-STD-810F specifications – able to withstand a three-foot drop on plywood over concrete as well as the occasional bumps, dust and moisture associated with mobile working environments. A variety of features create a reliable, rugged device:
• 1.8 inch hard disk drive (HDD) that provides extra shock protection
• Shock-mounted display and HDD with DataGuard™, an accelerometer that protects data during drops or other events that could potentially damage the hard drive
• Optional low cost 64GB SSD for extreme shock and vibration protection

Integrated Features and Custom Peripherals Optimize Usability
The J3400′s available integrated features improve field productivity while reducing the number of devices that must be carried, while a host of custom-designed peripherals optimize usability:
• 2.0 megapixel camera for seamless, in-the-field documentation
• Smart card reader and biometric fingerprint reader for enhanced security
• GPS for real-time mapping, location tracking or the geo-tagging of digital photos
• FlexDock with full input/output connections, a convenient charging bay and mounting compatibility with any VESA device
• J-Series Work Anywhere™ kit to give users a comfortable option for carrying the device throughout the workday

Improving Mobile Productivity with the Latest Technologies
The J3400 is available with a variety of technologies that improve productivity, whether computing indoors or out. It is the first tablet PC to combine Motion’s View Anywhere® technology with the Hydis AFFS+ wide screen display, creating an industry-leading, bright outdoor viewing experience. Other available features include:
• Intel® Centrino® 2 processor technology, which includes the Intel® Core™2 Duo processor to provide high performance and optimal battery life
• Speak Anywhere® technology that intelligently switches between two of three microphones for high-fidelity voice and sound input
• Intel® WiFi Link 5300 Series 802.11 a/b/g/draft-n, CSR BlueCore™ Bluetooth® 2.1, and integrated Gobi™ mobile broadband for a variety of communications options

Pricing and Availability
The Motion J3400 is now available at a starting price of $2,299. Motion tablet PCs are sold by authorized Motion resellers and distributors worldwide. For more information or to find a certified Motion reseller visit www.motioncomputing.com/products/tablet_pc_J34.asp.

Check out the demo video after the cut

The overall system performance rating – a single point - doesn’t initially fill you with confidence, but break that down and it’s only the low “gaming” score that’s undermining the LS800.  Processor comes in at 2.7, RAM at 4.1, Graphics at 1.9 and Hard Disk at 3.4.

The proof of the pudding, though, is in the user experience, and the LS800 gets a new lease of life.  Near silent running, very sporadic fan use, automatic driver downloads and most of the Windows 7 Ultimate functionality works.  Check out their demo video below.

This device would work by using electromagnetic induction. In essence, if a magnetic field moves through wire, electricity is generated. Motion 2 Energy will harness the electromagnetic waves that people generate just by moving throughout the day.

To put this into numbers, the Motion 2 Energy charger can generate up to 60 minutes of cell phone talking time for every six hours of motion you make. This is so cool because it’s harnessing a previously untapped energy source. Expect to see Motion 2 Energy to hit the market sometime in early 2009.

[via CrunchGear]

The F5 meanwhile, which is a semi-rugged slate, gets the same updates.  Both models share the new accessories, which include a Mobile Dock and Flex Carry case system.  The former is a multi-function wall, desk or vehicle dock with port replication charging, whereas the latter has an array of shoulder and hand straps for different ways to transport your tablet.

Motion are shipping the new versions of the slates now, the SSD & WWAN version of the F5 being $3,567 and the C5 $3,366.  The Flex Carry case is also on sale now, priced at $149, while the Mobile Dock is $249.99 with an AC adaptor or $324.99 with a vehicle adaptor but won’t ship until August.

Press Release:

Motion’s C5 MCA and F5 Semi-Rugged Tablet PC Enhance Mobile Workforce Productivity with Upgrades, New Peripherals

Mobile Broadband and Solid State Drive Options for the C5 Extend Usability to the Mobile Point of Care, and New Accessories Customized for the Design of the C5 and F5 Offer Convenient Usability Options

AUSTIN, Texas –(Business Wire)– Jul. 1, 2008 Motion Computing(R), a leader in mobile computing and wireless communications, today announced the C5 mobile clinical assistant (MCA) and F5 semi-rugged tablet PC feature upgrades and new custom peripherals created for the unique design of the devices. The C5 now features integrated mobile broadband and solid state drive (SSD) options to extend its usability to the point of care, regardless of patient location. Additionally, the C5 and F5 now feature improved capacity with standard 80 GB hard disk drives (HDD) at no additional cost.
“Motion understands mobile workforces and we are focused on improving productivity across a broad range of environments, from the patient bedside to the construction site,” said Mike Stinson, VP of Marketing at Motion. “Customer feedback is a critical part of improving our tablet PCs, and based on recent input we’re confident that these upgrades will enable our target customers to be more productive, no matter where work takes them.”

With the C5′s optional integrated mobile broadband, mobile clinicians can improve productivity by accessing important patient information, including digital images and patient history details. For many mobile point of care applications, such as those in home healthcare, ongoing connectivity will enable better collaboration with other treating clinicians and reduce travel time by allowing the immediate transfer of documentation after every patient visit, which can reduce processing delays and improve billing cycle times. Additionally, the optional SSD will help further protect the C5 from the occasional bumps and drops experienced by highly mobile professionals.

Motion(R) continually adds features and options that help organizations reduce the number of devices technicians carry, improve workflow, reduce data collection errors and ensure users can communicate with host systems and each other from the field. With a new standard 80 GB HDD in the Motion F5 semi-rugged tablet PC, mobile field forces in construction, government, field sales and service, and manufacturing are now able to store more images and other documentation, allowing them to complete tasks and solve customer issues when away from the office.

Motion also announced today new peripherals, custom-designed for the C5 and F5 that offer expanded options to more easily transport, charge and utilize the PCs while away from the office or standard docking stations.

– Motion Mobile Dock. The Motion Mobile Dock offers the convenience of docking the C5 or F5 in almost any location, such as a vehicle, wall or cabinet, and features full port replication and charging capabilities.

– Motion Flex Carry. An ergonomic solution that provides alternate methods for carrying and holding the devices throughout the workday, the Flex Carry includes shoulder and hand straps and easily fits into the standard docking station for uninterrupted workflows.

Motion tablet PCs now ship with Windows Vista(R) Business, which offers integrated features that improve the tablet computing experience. Benefits include improved handwriting recognition, enhanced searching capabilities, tablet input panel with auto-fill features for email addresses and URLs and pen clicks that enable users to quickly conduct an action with a simple pen gesture.

The Motion F5, C5 and Flex Carry are available now through Motion’s network of resellers and distributors. The Mobile Dock is expected to ship August 1, 2008. Visit http://www.motioncomputing.com/buy/index.asp for more information.

About Motion Computing

Motion Computing is a mobile computing and wireless communications leader, combining world-class innovation and industry experience so professionals in vertical industries such as healthcare, field sales and service and government can use computing technology in new ways and places. The company’s enhanced line of tablet PCs, mobile clinical assistants and accessories are designed to increase productivity for on-the-go users while providing portability, security, power and versatility. Motion combines those products with services and unique vertical market knowledge to deliver robust solutions – platforms, peripherals, services and wireless – customized for the needs of a particular industry. For more information, visit http://www.motioncomputing.com

Motion Computing and Motion are trademarks or registered trademarks of Motion Computing, Inc., in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.  

Best of all they have interchangeable bezels from Silver/Black lines to wood to White/Black lines. The lowest end model starts at $139, an affordable price for a digital picture frame.

They all come with 256MB of integrated memory, CF, and SD/MMC/XD/MS card readers, as well as a USB port for plugging in a flash drive if you choose. They also support a plethora of file formats including JPEG, BMP, Motion JPEG, MPEG 1, MPEG4, and MP3.

[via ViewSonic]

At the wrist you get 120 degrees of pivot motion, 300 degrees at the elbow, and 180 degrees at the base. It’s powered by 4 D batteries plus whatever the remote control takes, which controls the 5 motors inside the robotic arm.

Now, there is some assembly required, but it’s clearly aimed at kids, so there’s no soldering required. So, you get to build a robot, learn about robotics, and you get this cool little robot arm, I wonder if you can program a few of these to play guitar hero for you? Anyways, they’ll be available the 21st of this month for about $60, but it looks like they are only coming to the UK, so you’ll have to have it imported.

[via TechDigest]

This little device extends out, grips on the floor at the bottom, and forks itself around the door knob to make sure that door doesn’t move. However, if someone is capable of moving, or worse yet, breaking the tube-steel gadget then hopefully the 120 decibel motion sensor alarm would deter them or at least make them reconsider.

It costs $30, and depending on what you travel with, and where you travel, might be worth it. It’s a cheap and effective way to make sure no one breaks into your room and rapes your fields and pillages your women.

[via ohgizmo]

Basically how it works is that there is a chamber inside full of air, that’s what makes this torpedo buoyant, but there is also an oil or wax or something like that which decreases the size of this chamber in warm water, causing the torpedo to fall in the water, and the cold water, at the bottom of the ocean/sea, causes the chamber to expand and rise again. All the while that is happening the fins on the side cause it to move in a forward motion as it rises and falls meaning the only thing it has to move with the battery inside is the rear fin that steers the device, the forward propulsion is taken care of.

That means this would be great for use in doing oceanic research over extended periods of time. The singular downside is that the only slice of the ocean it will ever see is the middle, hitting the bottom or the top would be the end of its journey for the most part, although I believe there is a small electric propeller on the back that can be use for navigation around obstacles, and that could presumably be used to get shots or info from the upper or lower layers, but would shorten the length of time it could be out on its own.

[via gizmowatch]

There will be two models available, an 850MHz tri-band model and a 900MHz tri-band model. I don’t know about the rest of you, but this is sounding like the perfect Android phone.

It has the more than the minimum 200MHz processor, it has the touch screen, it has the 2D and 3D graphics, and most importantly it is completely open to those who purchase it, so as soon as that source code for the full Android OS gets released and this phone gets released, I’d put money on someone developing the necessary drivers and such to install Android on it, if they haven’t already been written. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I can’t wait to see Android on a phone I can actually get my hands on.

That’s right, that means next time you don’t want to die while being shot at, you’re actually going to have to move your ass to dodge the bullets. Well, that seems to be the intent, but there aren’t any games that use the technology yet, but they have the camera, and an SDK for development, so games are likely, soon.

The camera works at 60 fps, has a high resolution, works in the light or in the dark (which is good since my room is like the bat cave when I am gaming) and supposedly has a low CPU time consumption, meaning your games won’t suck again thanks to the new cam. Personally, I got into gaming to help myself better enjoy being lazy, so if I have to work for a win, I don’t want to play, but over 10 million Wii users say I must be wrong.

3DV Systems ZCam to jump on the Wii Movement [via i4u]

No, it’s not a DVR in the sense that your new Media Center PC is a DVR, this one actually has a camera and microphone built in. of course there is also a motion sensor, so its clearly not made for use by the standard person, and judging by the company’s name, its probably for spy operations.

But you can set this thing down, and either starts it then, or set it to be motion sensitive, and then when it starts recording, it will record audio, and video will record in 320×240 resolutions. Then if it’s too risky to get close enough to it to pick it back up again, then you can pull the video off of it via Bluetooth. It should be available in March 2008, likely for a price most of you can’t afford.

The pen that swallowed a Bluetooth DVR [via Crave]

There is an electronic sensor in the tip that records all the movements to some sort of storage, probably flash, in the barrel of the pen. So basically it sounds like a slightly more adult/advanced version of the kids version that recently came out to help you with your homework and all that jazz.

I like it though, if I had a use for it. It could be priceless when giving a presentation, because you could probably just start writing notes on your slides based on the feedback you get from your audience. Or you could just give it to your kid and quit playing around with the toys like your 5, that’s probably what your peers will tell you.

Samsung Quad Pen Concept Transfers Air Scribbling in Perpetuity [via gizmodo]

They have two really cool products that they were demonstrating at CEATEC this year, one was some sort of real time facial editing, such as being able to change makeup and hairstyles on the two models sitting in front of the camera. That’s kind of cool, but not all that practical except maybe in the movie industry. But installed in one of their Qosmio laptops, I am sure all those YouTube users and MySpace whores could find a use for the technology.

On the other hand though, they also had an application that used the SpursEngine and another camera to capture your hand motions and convert them into controls for a DVD player. Now that’s a practical, and really cool application for the SpursEngine.

The SpursEngine technology has yet to find its way to market in anything yet, but I am sure it will with all these amazing capabilities. The current processor also has the ability to encode and decode MPEG-2 videos and the prototype currently runs at 1.5GHz.

Toshiba Gadget Reads Hand As Remote [via physorg]

Now who that someone is would be up to you, but I would recommend the police. At the very least you yourself should be on the call list.

It uses a GSM phone (probably a recycled one or one of the prepaid disposable ones), a motion sensor, and a basicx24 controller board. It is a bit big, but that probably wouldn’t be too daunting after its been hidden. You could probably shed some weight and size by removing a lot of the extraneous stuff from the motion sensor. It’s a pretty great idea though and would certainly be nifty for several applications.

Gsm alarm [via hackaday]

Likely the same 1.8-inch 32GB SSD model already seen in Sony’s UX range, the lack of moving parts makes the LS800 – which has already proved a hit in vertical markets such as healthcare – even more rugged and capable of withstanding bumps and knocks without the peril of data damage.  Another benefit is battery life; Motion are conservatively claiming around 10% extra, but more interesting is that the increased data transfer speeds over traditional hard-drives means the LS800 is around 40% more efficient in use.

The SSD option will add $599 to existing LS800 models, and current owners will be able to upgrade through approved Motion partners.

Press Release [via Tablet PC Review]

With prices starting at $1,999 for a Core Solo model, and $2,199 for a Core 2 Solo, it’s surprisingly reasonably priced.

GottaBeMobile video review of the LE1700 Tablet PC [GottaBeMobile]

Not only that, it’ll be the first with a Core 2 Duo processor; Motion have managed to fit WWAN in there as well, with the antenna integrated into the casing.  Convertible tablets like Lenovo’s X60 and the HP tx1000 have been stealing the headlines lately for their combination of processing grunt and pen-usability – it might just be the LE1700 which steals back the innovation crown.

From the FCC:

Intel® Core™2 Duo 1.5 GHz Processor or
Intel® Core™ Solo 1.2 GHz Processor
• Mobile Intel® 945GM Express Chipset
• Integrated Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g) networking
• Integrated Bluetooth® and infrared
• Integrated Wireless Broadband
• Integrated accelerometer to help protect the hard drive
• DDR2 RAM
• 12.1″ SXGA+ TFT LCD
• Integrated fingerprint reader
• Integrated Ethernet

Some other features…
Ambient light sensor (ALS)
VGA port
DVI-D port
SD (Secure Digital) card slot
PC card slot
SIM card slot

FCC [via GottaBeMobile]

In this video, shot by Scott Mase, Motion’s Scott Eckert demonstrates the slinky $2199 machine.  I’d be very curious if my doctor whipped one of these out at my next consultation (not least because the NHS is so poor they’re having to recycle dog hips into the elderly).

Google Video [via Scobleizer]