DRS ANNOUNCES ARMOR RANGE OF RUGGED COMPUTERS
By Julian Nettlefold, Editor BATTLESPACE
27 Feb 08. DRS Tactical Systems, Inc., a unit of DRS Technologies, Inc. today announced the launch of a new line of fully-rugged computing products – the ARMOR™ Convertible Notebook and the ARMOR™ Tablet PC. This new line of rugged mobile computers offers data protection technology, “anywhere” connectivity and sunlight readable display options, making these computers the ideal solution for industrial and government customers interested in ensuring situational awareness, protecting valuable data and/or increasing worker efficiency. Based on over 25 years of experience developing computer and display systems that survive in the harshest environments, DRS has taken the lessons learned in outdoor conditions around the globe and applied them to introduce ARMOR™.
“DRS has extensive experience developing systems that meet and exceed military requirements and survive extremely harsh environments around the globe. In fact, DRS currently is the global leader in the ultra-rugged computing market,” Michael Sheehan, president of DRS Technologies’ Tactical Computing strategic business unit told BATTLESPACE. “This experience has given us unique insights on how to make the computing systems survive and deliver optimal performance in extreme environments. Whether it’s a soldier in need of mission-critical information in the desert or a utility worker in need of automation in the field, ARMOR™ rugged mobile computing devices survive the rough conditions they face on a daily basis.”
ARMOR™ mobile computers combine advanced computing and communications technology with MIL-STD-810F durability and exceptional service, which includes a three-year comprehensive warranty and a direct line to customer support. These computers use Intel® processing technology and offer a full array of communications options, including integrated Wi-Fi, Ethernet and a PCMCIA slot. Weighing just 5.2 pounds, including batteries, ARMOR™ tablets and convertible notebooks go anywhere in support of any operation requiring mobility.
“Will ARMOR replace your Hammerhead range, originally produced by WalkAbout?” the Editor asked Bill Guyan of DRS Tactical Systems.
“Yes, the Hammerhead was an exceptional range of computers with 30,000 units being supplied to a wide range of customers world-wide. However, with the increased capability of the ARMOR range, two examples of which were launched this week, we expect to grow our customer base in the defense and industrial areas giving new capabilities to those customers currently using ToughBook and Itronix products. The Armor X10 tablet is a clear replacement for the Hammerhead. We also see other Armor products fitting into the range of laptops required for maintenance and diagnostic tasks at base workshops, sea and air bases; DRS already supplies units for F-16 diagnostics
“Will ARMOR become a successor to the Scorpion range of military computers?”
“No, our Scorpion range is built on a much higher specification for protection and power on the battlefield. We are working with GDUK to provide the UK MoD with a more powerful version of processor for new battlefield processing requirements. However we do see Scorpion as a natural contender for DII and other less rugged UK MoD Requirements such as Falcon.”
Additional features and other technical highlights:
ARMOR™ C12 Convertible Notebook Computers feature a rugged, die-cast magnesium alloy case. These units have been extensively tested for drop-shock, moisture, temperature extremes and resistance to dust and vibration, providing IP 54 level protection from damaging elements. The 12.1-inch outdoor-viewable touch-screen display quickly transforms from a tablet-style computer to a compact notebook with a full-size keyboard.
The ARMOR™ X10 Tablet features a specially designed aluminum DuraCase™ chassis with ShutOut™ sealing tec