Getac has launched a rugged Windows PDA for search and rescue operations, surveying and other outdoor occupations. Dubbed the PS535F, the Windows 6.1 rugged handheld has already passed through the FCC, and is the obvious successor to the Getac PS535E, released in March 2008. While last year’s model featured a 400 MHz Samsung, this year’s opts for an ARM-based 533 MHz Samsung S3C2450. This year’s model also packs four times as many pixels into its same-sized 3.5-inch display as the PS535E. Other features include SiRFStarIII-powered GPS, altimeter and e-compass, 3 megapixel camera, 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.0, four function keys, a five-way navigator, 128 MB of RAM, 2 GB of flash storage, an SD card slot and a 2400 mAh battery. The battery runs for 8 hours fully charged though that may be less in sub-zero temperatures. Speaking of temperature, the PS535F functions in temperature extremes between -4 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, resists drops up to five feet complying with MIL-STD810F drop resistance standards, and is resistant to water and dust. Getac appears to be shipping the PS535F now.
