MC9200: A Review of The Evolution of the Best Selling MC9060, MC9090 and MC9190 Mobile Computers by Motorola

Since 2003 Motorola Solutions (formerly Symbol Technologies) has been developing their extremely popular MC9000 mobile computing line.  Found in many different environments, such as warehousing and manufacturing this rugged device has stood the test of time for its users.  As technology has become obsolete, and better options available, the MC9000 line has evolved with the times, providing more powerful options for applications such as warehouse inventory management, supply chain management and inventory control.

One strong consideration when moving forward within the same device family, is that Motorola has maintained a large amount of backward compatibility with many of the accessories used in previous generations.

Many MC9060-G accessories still work with the MC9090-G, along with the MC9190-G and their newest offering, MC9200-G.  This shared accessory line reduces the overall cost of upgrading and migrating a mobile workforce, as these accessories do not require upgrading as well, leaving only the cost of the handheld to contend with for organizations when moving to a new device.

2003 - Symbol MC9060-G Mobile Computer

The MC9000-G series of mobile computers, better known as the MC9060-G mobile computer, was introduced by Symbol Technologies in 2003.

The MC9060-G was created to be a modern, relatively compact, light-weight, flash-light style handheld computer for scan-intensive operations (such as supply-chain management) throughout the enterprise sector, and helped make the MC9000-G's Symbol's most successful rugged line of handhelds ever.

The original design of the device included features such as a monochrome or color touch-screen enabled 3.8” display (240 x 320), good processing power, modular 28, 43- and 53-key field-replaceable keyboard options, internal Wi-Fi, and scanning options included either a 1D laser (available in differing ranges), or 2D imager which supported many of the 2D barcode symbologies available at the time.  The device was ruggedized in terms of sealing and drop-specs and had rubber bumpers and a specially designed torque cell which contributed to its impressive 6-foot drop spec.

Installed with either Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC, or the more developer-orientated Windows CE .NET 4.2, it came ready for whatever environment users needed it in.  With its pistol-grip design which reduced user fatigue, the MC9060-G was a powerful and versatile tool for data collection and processing in many different vertical and industrial markets.

Download specifications sheet for the Symbol MC9060-G Mobile Computer (PDF)

2006 - Symbol MC9090-G Mobile Computer

In late 2006, thanks to the great popularity of the MC9000-G series, Symbol Technologies updated the product line to the MC9090-G, which added more options for different markets.

As the merger was officially completed in January of 2007, and Motorola Solutions acquired Symbol Technologies, Motorola continued using the Symbol Technologies brand for the early part of the year, before switching to Motorola branding completely, and dropping the Symbol name from the line.

Download specifications sheet for the Symbol MC9090-G Mobile Computer (PDF)

2007 - Motorola MC9090-G Mobile Computer

After the adoption of the Motorola branding, the MC9090-G continued to improve.  Early options included similar specifications as the MC9060-G, using Windows CE 5.0 and Windows Mobile 5 for operating systems and increased the amount of memory and a faster processor. 

Later configurations of the MC9090-G included the Windows Mobile 6.1 operating system as one of the options available.

In September of 2011, Motorola discontinued the MC9090-G computers and announced a complete transition to the new MC9190-G.

Download specifications sheet for the Motorola MC9090-G Mobile Computer (PDF)

2011 - Motorola MC9190-G Mobile Computer

Feb. 14, 2011, Motorola announced the launch of the MC9190-G mobile computer. which was built upon the successful MC9090-G, but offering more processing power to support today’s applications, and is available with more scanning options, better scanning performance, government-grade security, higher resolution display, and a more rugged touchscreen and scanner exit window.

Download specifications sheet for the Motorola MC9190-G Mobile Computer (PDF)

2013 - Motorola MC9200 Mobile Computer

On June 17, 2013, Motorola announced availability of the MC9200 (Windows Embedded 6.5x models only, Windows CE 7.0 models became available on June 30, 2013).

The MC9200 is the latest generation in the industry-leading rugged MC9000 series, now upgraded to support next generation mobile applications.  This rugged mobile computer was developed to meet the changing business needs, bringing the same signature rugged design, best-in-class bar code scanning and dependable operation, available now with the power to run applications with highly-intuitive interfaces that will further simplify processes and increase worker productivity in tough environments.  Added support for the 802.11n wireless standard, workers can have the best possible wireless voice and data experience.

The MC9200 is tough, delivering reliable performance regardless of repeated drops, exposure to subzero cold, extreme heat, dust and splashing liquids.  Available with 6 different options for scanning 1D barcodes, 2D barcodes, PDF417 barcodes on driver's licenses and direct part marks found in manufacturing, these laser or imager options allow the MC9200 to be configured to deliver the best performance on the types of barcodes in use in your facility, even if the codes are dirty, damaged or poorly printed.  As with previous generations, the device can be configured with multiple keyboard options, providing the easiest data entry options for its users.

The MC9200 is available in 2 versions: standard and premium.  The premium model has all the same features of the standard model but adds more memory, IST support, RFID tag and Microsoft Office on the WE operating system versions of the devices.

Download Specifications sheet for the Motorola MC9200-G Mobile Computer (PDF)

As of the time of this writing, Motorola has not announced end of life for the MC9190-G.  Industry experts expect the MC9190-G will sell through the remainder of 2014, after which it will likely be retired.

MC9060-G vs. MC9090-G vs. MC9190-G vs. MC9200 Feature Comparison:

Feature	MC9060-G	MC9090-G	MC9190-G	MC9200
Processor	XScale PXA255 processor at 400 MHz	Intel XScale PXA270 @ 624 MHz	Marvell PXA320 @ 806 MHz	Dual core 1GHz OMAP 4 processor
Memory	Embedded CE: 64/64 MB Windows Mobile: 64/64 MB	CE 5.0: 64MB/64MB or 128MB/64MB Windows Mobile 5.0 Premium or 6.1 Classic: 64MB/128MB or 128MB/128MB	256MB RAM/ 1GB Flash	512MB RAM / 2GB Flash or 1 GB RAM / 2GB Flash
Operating System	Microsoft Windows Embedded CE. NET or Windows Mobile 2003	Windows Mobile 5.0 Premium Edition or Windows Mobile 6.1 Classic or Microsoft Windows CE 5.0	Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3 or Microsoft Windows CE 6.0	Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3 or Windows Embedded Compact 7.0
Motorola Mobility Platform Architecture (MPA)	N/A	MPA 1.0	MPA 2.0	MPA 3.0
WLAN	Symbol Spectrum24, 802.11b, 802.11	802.11a/b/g	802.11a/b/g	802.11a/b/g/n
Scanning Options	1D Laser Standard Range Scanner (SE 824) or 2D Imager	1D Laser (SE1224) or 1D Laser Long Range (SE1524-ER) or 1D/2D Imager (SE4400) or 1D/2D Imager with DPM (SE4400-HD)	1D Laser (SE960) or 1D Laser Long Range (SE1524-ER) or 1D/2D Imager (SE4500-SR) or 1D/2D Long Range Imager (SE4600) or 1D/2D Imager with Driver’s License parsing (SE4500-DL) or 1D/2D Imager with DPM (SE4500-HD)	1D Laser (SE965) or 1D Laser Long Range (SE1524-ER) or 1D/2D Imager (SE4500-SR) or 1D/2D Long Range Imager (SE4600) or 1D/2D Imager with Driver’s License parsing (SE4500-DL) or 1D/2D Imager with DPM (SE4500-HD)
Interactive Sensor Technology (IST)	No	No	Yes
FIPS 140-2 Certification	No	No	Yes
Display	3.8 in. 1/4 VGA Mono or Color	3.7 in. QVGA mono or color for Win CE, Windows Mobile models only available in color.	3.7 in. VGA color available on all models
Gorilla® Glass Scanner Exit Window	No	No	Yes
Hardened Touchscreen	Yes	Yes	Yes — with increased hardness
SD Expansion Slot	SD/MMC card up to 1GB	SD/MMC card up to 1GB	SD/MMC card up to 32GB
Bluetooth Version	Bluetooth v1.1	Bluetooth v1.2	Bluetooth 2.1 with EDR (Enhanced Data Rate)
Bluetooth Stacks	StoneStreet	StoneStreet	StoneStreet or Microsoft
Swappable Operating Systems	No	No	Yes

Download MC9200 vs. MC9190-G vs. MC9090-G Feature Comparison PDF here.

Feature	MC9200 Customer Benefit
Processor / Memory	Plenty of power to support next generation mobile applications with graphics intensive elegant and intuitive interfaces; simplifies application use and increases user productivity. Ample power to run complex ERP applications - simultaneously.
Operating System	Robust mobile operating systems that allow your business to take advantage of the latest mobility feature set, delivering increased flexibility, interoperability and security.
Motorola Mobility Platform Architecture (MPA)	The latest Motorola MPA platform provides the latest best-in-class technology architecture, providing an extended lifecycle and future-proofing. In addition, the standardized platform preserves existing application investments by enabling easy and cost-effective porting of applications from other Motorola mobile computers.
WLAN	The latest Wi-Fi standard, 802.11n, offers more bandwidth, can support more users and more applications and delivers wired-line style performance over a wireless connection.
Scanning Options	Provides multiple data capture options, including long-range capture of 1D and 2D bar codes, as well as Motorola’s latest 1D laser scanner. Four imager options all offer Motorola’s revolutionary imaging technology, with stunning laser-like performance on both 1D and 2D barcodes. The degradation of 1D bar code scanning performance typical in today’s 2D imagers is eliminated; expanding data capture capabilities to include 2D bar codes as well as documents, images and signatures — without impacting user productivity or scanning accuracy.
Interactive Sensor Technology (IST)	Enables leading edge motion-based applications. In addition to dynamic screen orientation: Automatically powers down when not in use Records device drops for man-down applications Provides access to accelerometer data to support custom applications
FIPS 140-2 Certification	NIST Validated use in government applications. No additional 3rd party supplicants required.
Display	Best-in-class 3.7 inch high-resolution backlit color VGA touchscreen display provides great readability in any lighting condition — from bright sunlight to total darkness.
Gorilla® Glass Scanner Exit Window	Increases the durability of the scanner exit window with glass that is virtually impervious to damage — including scratches.
Hardened Touchscreen	The increased hardness further improves resistance to wear and tear.
SD Expansion Slot	Larger expansion slot capacity provides ample storage for the largest applications.
Bluetooth Version	The latest Bluetooth technology provides a faster wireless connection to more device types (up to 3 Mbps) over a more secure connection.
Bluetooth Stacks	Select the stack that best meets mobility needs.
Swappable Operating Systems	The ability to send the MC9200 to a Motorola Service Center to switch between CE and Windows Mobile operating systems eliminates the need to purchase new mobile computers to accommodate a future OS migration.

Is your organization still using MC9060-G or MC9090-G mobile computers? Maybe it's time to consider an upgrade.  Worried about the costs of upgrading? Don't worry, we can help.

 Legacy Technology Services routinely buys MC9000-G, MC9060-G and MC9090-G mobile computers from customers, which helps reduce their costs in upgrading to newer models.  These devices are repaired and fully refurbished, adding them to our large rental pool for customers who have more short-term inventory needs.

Recent Addition: Honeywell Batteries (GTS) Genius Battery

Get real time insight into the True State-of-Health of your batteries

Each Genius Battery contains a unique memory chip that tracks and stores critical usage information about the battery for state-of-health condition.

Genius Batteries:

• Self-diagnose their True State-of-Health in real time, without any additional equipment or processes.
• Use multiple data points to provide deeper and more accurate insight into their True State-of-Health.
• Contain an LED light to provide users with instant and continuous insight into battery health.

With Genius Batteries from GTS, you can:

• Avoid unplanned work stoppages.
• Reduce maintenance costs and related NTFs.
• Lower total cost of operations.
• Maximize performance of portable devices and operations.
• Manage inventory and assets with more control.
• Determine when to reorder, remove, and replace batteries.
• Diagnose device issues proactively

Genius Technology
Multiple data points and unique algorithms calculate a battery’s True State-of-Health at any moment. The Genius Technology monitors key internal battery characteristics such as usage patterns, charging history, and environmental factors. The technology then uses that data to compare current performance to ideal levels.

GTS (Global Technology Systems) Genius Battery Click links to buy from Legacy Technology Services
Part Number	Description
H4090-LI-G	Genius Battery for Motorola-Symbol WT4090 Capacity: 2400 mAh Chemistry: Li-ion Voltage: 3.7 volts OEM Part Number(s): BTRY-WT40IAB0H
H4090-LI(2X)-G	Extended Capacity Genius Battery for Motorola-Symbol WT4090 Capacity: 4800 mAh Chemistry: Li-ion Voltage: 3.7 volts OEM Part Number(s): BTRY-WT40IAB0H
HCN50-LI-G	Genius Battery for Honeywell-Intermec CN50 Capacity: 4540 mAh Chemistry: Li-ion Voltage: 3.6 volts OEM Part Number(s): 318-039-001
HMC70-LI(36)-G	Genius Battery for Motorola-Symbol MC70 and Motorola -Symbol MC75 Capacity: 3600 mAh Chemistry: Li-ion Voltage: 3.7 volts OEM Part Number(s): BTRY-MC70EAB02
HMC70-LI(48)-G	Genius Battery for Motorola-Symbol MC70 and Motorola / Symbol MC75 Capacity: 4800 mAh Chemistry: Li-ion Voltage: 3.7 volts OEM Part Number(s): BTRY-MC70EAB02
HMC9000-LI(24)-G	Genius Battery for Motorola-Symbol MC9060-G, Motorola-Symbol MC9090-G and Motorola-Symbol MC9190-G Capacity: 2400 mAh Chemistry: Li-ion Voltage: 7.4 volts OEM Part Number(s): 21-65587-01, KT-21-61261-01

You can also visit the Global Technology Sytstems (GTS) homepage or the GTS Genius Battery product page for more information.

Maybe its Time.... to Upgrade Your MC9000 or MC9090 Mobile Computer

Background / History:

The MC9000-G series of handheld mobile computers by Motorola (formerly Symbol) are one of the most popular mobile computers still in use today.

Introduced in 2003, the MC9000-G was conceived as a modern and relatively compact and lightweight flashlight-style handheld computer for barcode scanning-intensive applications (such as supply chain management) throughout the enterprise, and ended up becoming Symbol's most successful line of rugged handhelds ever.

The MC9000's original design included a large 3.8-inch mono or color display, good processing power, a choice of a 43 or 53-key keypad, internal WiFi, and several long and short range 1D laser scanners or 2D imager options. The device is very rugged both in terms of sealing and drop specs. Rugged notebook-style rubber bumpers and a specially designed torque cell contributed to the stellar 6-foot drop spec. The MC9000-G came with either Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC or the more developer-oriented CE .NET 4.2. A pistol grip reduced user fatigue and makes the MC9000-G a powerful, versatile tool for data collection and processing in numerous vertical and industrial markets.

Thanks to the great popularity of the MC9000 Series, Symbol updated the line with the 9090 Series, and added a variety of special versions targeted for different markets. The line was upgraded again, adding more power and more options to this popular mobile computer line.

Motorola / Symbol MC9000 Series

Then....

	Symbol MC9000-G (MC9060-G) Gun-Style Mobile Computer The MC9000-G Series from Symbol Technologies is an elegant, ruggedized mobile computer for use in bar code scanning-intensive applications throughout your enterprise. The MC9000-G gives your organization real-time access to mission-critical information from key points in your supply chain. The MC9000-G and MC9060-G models were discontinued by Symbol Technologies in November 2007 and were replaced by the MC9090-G configurations.
	Symbol MC9000-K (MC9060-K / MC9062-K / MC9063-K) Handheld Mobile Computer The rugged MC9000-K Series from Symbol Technologies, is an exceptionally reliable mobile computer that delivers real-time visibility into your company’s mission-critical information. Three wireless radios offer maximum accessibility to help workers make more informed decisions. The MC9000-K provides multiple benefits: reduce errors, improve productivity and comply with increased safety standards, environmental or homeland security regulatory issues. It’s ideal for your field, delivery, home office, operations, warehouse or factory applications. The MC9000-K, MC9060-K, MC9062-K, and MC9063-K models were discontinued by Symbol Technologies between 2006 and 2008 and were replaced by the MC9090-K, MC9094-K and MC9097-K configurations.
	Symbol MC9000-S (MC9060-S / MC9062-S / MC9063-S) Short Handheld Mobile Computer The rugged MC9000-S Series mobile computer from Symbol Technologies, is designed for true mobile field applications. It delivers real-time visibility into your company’s day-to-day business transactions for improved efficiencies, reduced costs and new competitive advantage. Built for harsh environments, the durable MC9000-S helps reduce errors and improve productivity for field workers. For route drivers, technicians or law enforcement, it gives instant access to mission critical customer information. The MC9000-S, MC9060-S, MC9062-S, and MC9063-S models were discontinued by Symbol Technologies between 2006 and 2008 and were replaced with MC9090-S, MC9094-S and MC9097-S configurations.
	Motorola / Symbol MC9090-G Gun-Style Mobile Computer Building on the success of the MC9000 family, the MC9090-G rugged mobile computer from Motorola provides mobile workers throughout the supply chain with a flexible always-on data connection to critical business applications and systems as well as to co-workers and other business associates. Equipped with the latest advances in mobile technology, the MC9090-G provides support for the richest enterprise applications, empowering mobile workers to capture and access critical business information in real time. As of September 9, 2011, Motorola announced the end of sale of the MC9090-G, transitioning to the MC9190-G configurations.
	Motorola / Symbol MC9090-K (MC9094-K / MC9097-K) Handheld Mobile Computer Building on the success of the Motorola MC9000 family, the rugged MC909X-K hand-held mobile computer delivers the exceptional reliability mobile workers inside and outside your four walls need to provide real-time visibility into business-critical information. Designed to handle all-day every day use in nearly any environment, the MC909X-K enables route salespeople, field repair personnel, and workers in the warehouse to access, as well as capture and send, crucial business information in real time. The latest advances in mobile technology, proven rugged construction, and support for multimode wireless connectivity ensure maximum accessibility to co-workers and business systems. Business processes are streamlined and errors are reduced, effectively increasing productivity — and profitability. As of July 8, 2010, Motorola announced the discontinuation of the MC9090-K / MC9094-S and were replaced by the MC9590-K, MC9596-K, MC9598-K or MC959B-K configurations.
	Motorola / Symbol MC9090-S (MC9094-S / MC9097-S) Short Handheld Mobile Computer Building on the success of the Motorola MC9000 family, the rugged, compact MC909X-S handheld mobile computer delivers the exceptional reliability mobile workers inside and outside your four walls need to provide real-time visibility into business-critical information. Designed to handle all-day every day use in nearly any environment, the MC909X-S enables route salespeople, field repair personnel, and workers in the warehouse or on the retail floor to access, as well as capture and send, crucial business information in real time. The latest advances in mobile technology, proven rugged construction, and support for multi-mode wireless connectivity ensure maximum accessibility to coworkers and business systems. Business processes are streamlined and errors are reduced, effectively increasing productivity — and profitability. As of July 8, 2010, Motorola announced the discontinuation of the MC9090-S, MC9094-S, and MC9097-S mobile computers, and suggested replacing them with the MC9590-K, MC9596-K, MC9598-K or MC959B-K configurations. At the time of this writing, Motorola is no longer providing a short-handheld form factor in the MC9000 family line.

.....Now

Motorola MC9190-G Rugged Gun-Style Mobile Computer When you need to scan bar codes and collect data in the harshest of environments, Motorola’s MC9190-G is ready for the job. Whether your workers are managing inventory in industrial warehouses, searching for materials in subzero temperatures out in the yard or repairing equipment on a military base in a hot sandy desert, the MC9190-G helps get the job done right and fast. You can count on dependable scanning of virtually any bar code — even if the label has been damaged. With the next generation of the highly successful MC9000-G Series in hand, scanning is easier than ever, with point and shoot simplicity for bar codes that are inches or meters away, on the top shelves in the warehouse or deep inside a truck. The new high resolution backlit display is easy to view in any lighting — from the dim corners of a warehouse to the bright sunlight out on the loading dock or tarmac. With more processing power and memory, you can give your workers the same fast and dependable application performance they expect on their desktop. And since the MC9190-G is compatible with all your existing MC9000 Series accessories, you can cost-effectively upgrade to the latest in mobile computing technologies — no need to purchase new cradles, cables, headsets or holsters.
Motorola MC9500-K (MC9590-K / MC9596-K / MC9598-K / MC959B-K) Rugged Handheld Mobile Computer The MC9500-K Series leverages the flagship features and functionality of Motorola’s signature MC9000 Series rugged mobile computers, while introducing many new capabilities defined through extensive research and testing in logistics, parcel/post, direct store delivery (DSD), field service, public safety and sales force automation applications in some of the world’s leading organizations. The result is a device that is as different on the inside as it is on the outside — a groundbreaking product with an unsurpassed feature set that takes rugged mobile computing innovation to a new level. With the MC9500-K Series, you can simply expect more: a more rugged design, more data capture options, more intelligence, more processing power and better ergonomics, all in a sleeker, lighter and easier-to-use form factor that offers true carrier independence as well as a completely new approach to accessories, battery and backroom management.
Motorola MC9200-G (MC92N0-G) Gun-Style Mobile Computer The MC9200 is the next generation in the industry-leading rugged MC9000 Series, now upgraded to support your next generation mobile applications. The rugged mobile computer that evolves to meet changing business needs brings you the same signature rugged design, best-in-class bar code scanning and dependable operation, now with the power to run applications with highly-intuitive interfaces that will further simplify processes and increase worker productivity in your toughest environments. And you get well-proven technology you and your workers can count on — every day, millions of users around the world count on their MC9000 Series mobile computer to better manage inventory in warehouses and manufacturing plants, track baggage on airport tarmacs in any kind of weather and keep weaponry and vehicles on military bases in peak operating condition. The MC9200 — the next evolution in the world’s leading mobile computer for demanding environments. The MC9200 is available in standard and premium versions with many options to choose from. On May 13, 2013, Motorola announced the launch of their new premium line of gun-style mobile computers, the MC9200-G (MC92N0-G).  Motorola has stated that this new release will co-exist with the MC9190-G models and has said that this release does not signal the discontinuation of the MC9190-G mobile computers currently being sold.

Still using older MC9000 series mobile computers?

Maybe its time to upgrade.  Consult the following pages to see your current configuration and what newer model part numbers have replaced it.

MC9000-G Series: MC9060-G to MC9090-G to MC9190-G Upgrade Path Chart
MC9000-K Series: MC9060-K to MC9090-K to MC9500-K Model Upgrade Path Chart
MC9000-S Series: MC9060-S to MC9090-S to MC9500-K Model Upgrade Path Chart

Worried about the costs of upgrading your mobile computers?

Don't worry, we can help.  Legacy Technology Services routinely buys MC9000, MC9060  and MC9090 mobile computers from customers, helping to reduce the costs in upgrading to newer models.  We then repair and refurbish the units to add them to our large rental pool.