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.

Spring is Coming! List of Intermec, Honeywell and Motorola PestPac Approved Devices for Pest Control Companies

The long winter season is almost over and springtime is just around the corner.  Pest Control companies are now gearing up to tackle the pest control problems of their customers as bugs and rodents become active as the weather warms up.

As a Pest Control company using software such as Marathon PestPac to handle tasks such as sales and inventory management, tracking, and advanced reporting, you may be looking at upgrading, repairing or replacing your mobile devices and Legacy Technology Services can help.

Legacy has an extensive inventory of new and refurbished handheld devices for use with the pest control industry and the Legacy National Service Center is one of the largest in the United States.

Get ahead of the springtime rush now with Legacy Technology Services.

The following are PestPac Mobile approved devices (Note: PestPac Mobile requires the use of approved mini SD or micro SD memory cards of at least 2GB in size).

PestPac Approved Honeywell Mobile Computers:

Honeywell Dolphin 7900 Mobile Computer
	The Dolphin 7900 Series mobile computer delivers unparalleled performance and value for mobile data collection applications. Its compact, ergonomic, rugged design provides the ease of use and operational reliability needed to excel in robust mobile applications such as package delivery, field service, route accounting, transportation, warehousing, retail, and industrial/manufacturing. The Honeywell / HHP Dolphin 7900 is no longer supported by PestPac.
Honeywell Dolphin 9700 Ultra-Rugged Digital Assisant
	Honeywell’s Dolphin® 9700 rugged digital assistant maximizes worker productivity and reduces operating costs by providing reliable and easyto- use multi-modal communication and data collection. Real-time communication is critical in today’s fast-paced global business environment. Mobile workers can perform a multitude of tasks on the Dolphin 9700, including business computing, e-mail, instant messaging, web browsing, voice calls, bar code scanning, picture taking, video recording, GPS tracking, and vehicle navigation. This consolidation of hardware simplifies workflow and significantly reduces expenses. High-speed wireless technology—3.5G GSM/HSDPA, 802.11 a/b/g, Bluetooth®, IrDA and GPS—connects companies to customers and workers, regardless of location.

PestPac Approved Intermec Mobile Computers:

Intermec CN3 Mobile Computer
	The first fully rugged mobile computer to incorporate up to four wireless technologies into a compact PDA form factor, the versatile Intermec CN3 has proven that integrated GPS and Bluetooth technologies can work together to increase efficiency and safety by enabling hands-free turn-by-turn voice navigation. Add 3G WWAN and Cisco Compatible WiFi , and your users are fully connected with real time voice and high-speed data (GSM/EDGE or CDMA/EV-DO) anywhere they go. The Intermec CN3 is also compatible with the Interrogator, which requires an additional snap-on piece and cable, is not approved for cellular use.
Intermec CN3e Mobile Computer
	An extension to the popular and proven CN3 mobile computer, the mid-sized fully rugged CN3e features large keys, integrated GPS and robust communications options, making it the ideal handheld for key-based, data-intensive delivery applications. The Intermec CN3e is also compatible with the Interrogator, which requires an additional snap-on piece and cable, is not approved for cellular use.
Intermec CN4 Mobile Computer
	With integrated 3.5G WWAN technology, the fully rugged Intermec CN4 further extends the CN3 wireless feature sets and enables enterprises to leverage the benefits of high bandwidth WWAN data collection and communications to achieve even greater gains in worker productivity,and in-field service offerings. The Intermec CN4 is also compatible with the Interrogator, which requires an additional snap-on piece and cable.  This device also has phone and cellular capabilities.
Intermec CN4e Mobile Computer
	The fully rugged Intermec CN4e mobile computer features large keys and integrated 3.5G WWAN to enable enterprises with key-based, data intensive delivery applications to leverage the benefits of high bandwidth data collection and communications to achieve gains in worker productivity, and service offerings in the field. The Intermec CN4e is also compatible with the Interrogator, which requires an additional snap-on piece and cable.  This device also has phone and cellular capabilities.
Intermec CN50 Mobile Computer
	The Intermec CN50 is the only 3.75G wireless mobile computer that combines a small and lightweight form factor with a rugged design to deliver the most advanced, high performance voice and data communication solution specifically designed for the highly mobile field worker. The Intermec CN50 is also compatible with the Interrogator, which requires an additional snap-on piece and cable. This device has both CDMA (Verizon, Sprint) and UMTS (Rogers, Bell, Telus) network capabilities.
Intermec CN70 Ultra-Rugged Mobile Computer
	The CN70's design is optimized for field mobility environments. Specifically the CN70 is optimal for mobile field service and transportation workers who need power and performance in a compact form factor. The no-compromise design of the CN70 includes an all-light visible VGA display, high durability Gorilla® Glass touch panel and indestructible keypad technology to ensure that they stay in workers' hands instead of the repair depot. The Intermec CN70 has both CDMA and UMTS network capabilities.
Intermec CN70e Ultra-Rugged Mobile Computer
	The CN70e's design is optimized for field mobility environments.  The CN70e offers the same power-packed computing but comes with a larger keypad design making it ideal for delivery environments where workers may be wearing gloves or have more data input intensive applications.  The no-compromise design of the CN70e includes an all-light visible VGA display, high durability Gorilla® Glass touch panel and indestructible keypad technology to ensure that they stay in workers' hands instead of the repair depot. The Intermec CN70e has CDMA capabilities.
Intermec CS40 Mobile Computer
	Intermec's CS40 is designed specifically for mobile field professionals who need productivity and reliability beyond a smart phone. The CS40 is Intermec's smallest rugged mobile computer. It combines ruggedness, advanced 3.75G voice and data communications, as well as integrated high-performance 1D/2D scanning capability in smart phone size and style. It is designed to connect your mobile workforce to the enterprise for real-time access to business information and data exchange. The Intermec CS40 has CDMA capabilities.

PestPac Approved Motorola Mobile Computers:

Motorola ES400 Enterprise Data Assistant
	Motorola ES400 is Motorola’s smallest and pocketable EDA offers the comprehensive voice and data capabilities required to enable your workers to not only receive information, but to take action — immediately. No more paperwork to process at the end of the day. No more delay in receipt of information from the field. No more gathering information before heading out on the road. Now, the tools required to collect and access data, make the best decisions and complete tasks on-the-spot are always in hand. The Motorola ES400 is approved for version 1.39.3 and higher.
Motorola MC35 Enterprise Digital Assistant
	Keep your on-the-go employees connected to co-workers, clients, and your business systems with the MC35 Enterprise Digital Assistant from Motorola. The MC35, supporting EDGE GPRS/GSM, packs a new level of enterprise connectivity, functionality, durability and manageability in a small, easy-tocarry and easy-to-use device. Mobile voice and data communications, image capture and bar code scanning capabilities are right at the fingertips of mobile workers. Built-in durability delivers reliable performance, even with all day everyday use. The Motorola / Symbol MC35 is approved for routing only.
Motorola MC50 Enterprise Digital Assistant
	The MC50 from Motorola is first in a class of mobile computers that combines an enhanced PDA-style form factor with optimal performance to operate enterpriselevel applications. This small, lightweight mobile computer features advanced data capture options, flexible voice and data communication and easy wireless local area network (WLAN) synchronization.
Motorola MC55 Enterprise Digital Assistant
	The Motorola MC55 brings a new level of functionality and flexibility to pocket-sized mobile devices. As the smallest and lightest Motorola rugged EDA, the MC55 packs the power of a cell phone, bar code scanner, camera, walkie talkie and mobile computer into a robust business class device with true consumer styling and ergonomics — and is designed to meet mobile worker, business application and IT requirements.
Motorola MC65 Enterprise Digital Assistant
	Supercharge your mobile workforce and redefine productivity with the toughest, most flexible EDA on the market. Workers have multiple tasks and limited time. With the Motorola MC65, they have the tools in hand to get their jobs done right — right now. Desktop-like performance provides instant access to the applications and information back at the office.  Shave hours of time out of the work week by capturing and processing just about any type of data on site, quickly and easily — from a single document to hundreds of bar codes, a library of photos or a signature.
Motorola MC70 Enterprise Digital Assistant
	The flagship MC70 Enterprise Digital Assistant (EDA) is a rugged handheld mobile device that incorporates a mobile phone, PDA, computer, scanner and imager in a single unit designed for the rigors of all-day, everyday usage. This compact, lightweight device combines multi-mode wireless networking, voice and data communications, and advanced data capture in an enterprise productivity tool that can support nearly any application in any environment.
Motorola MC75 Enterprise Digital Assistant
	No matter what your workers need to get the job done, Motorola’s MC75 Worldwide Enterprise Digital Assistant delivers all the features and functionality required to maximize workforce productivity in a rugged device with a minimum footprint…all at the right price. The MC75 re-defines the standard for EDA mobile computers with simultaneous voice, data and GPS services* as well as an unprecedented number of enterprise class features. Users enjoy a 3G world cell phone with push-to-talk (PTT), integrated GPS with superior sensitivity and tracking capabilities, 1D and 2D bar code scanning, a high resolution color camera, 3G wireless WAN (WWAN), wireless LAN (WLAN), wireless PAN (WPAN) and IrDA connectivity — all in a single device. The Motorola MC75 is also compatible with the Interrogator, which requires an additional snap-on piece and RS-232 cable. (part number: 25-102776-02R)
Motorola MC75A Enterprise Digital Assistant
	Motorola's MC75A Series takes its place as one of the world’s premier EDAs, offering more enterprise-class features and functionality than any other device in its class. Turbocharged with many Motorola Mobility Architecture eXtension (MAX) features, the MC75A addresses top business mobility needs, offering maximum processing power, rugged design, flexibility in extending solution reach, data capture capabilities, connectivity options, security and manageability. Three models meet the needs of every worker: a WLAN-only model for workers inside the four walls; a WLAN model designed to meet the special needs in healthcare environments; and a 3.5G WWAN/WLAN model for your field workforce. Add a field proven ergonomic design that is easy-to-hold, easy-to-carry and easy-to-use, and you have maximum value in a minimum footprint — all at the right price. The Motorola MC75A is not compatible with the Interrogator.
Motorola MC9500-K Industrial-Class 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 Motorola MC9500-K is approved for versions 1.39.0.0 and greater.

PestPac Approved Mobile Receipt Printers

The handheld must have Bluetooth capabilities in order to be compatible with these printers

Intermec PB42 4” Mobile Receipt Printer
	Intermec’s PB42* four inch wireless portable receipt printer is designed to improve direct store delivery (DSD), Field Service, and Home Utility applications. Daily route activities are easily entered and tracked via a mobile computer throughout a workers shift. Receipts are immediately provided to the customer for prompt payment or to eliminate duplicate billing efforts.
Intermec PB32 Rugged 3" Mobile Label / Receipt Printer
	The Intermec rugged mobile label printer family delivers the fastest choice for customers with demanding applications in warehousing, distribution, in-store retail and enterprise asset management. Coupled with Intermec rugged mobile computers and software, the PB32 mobile label printer helps companies improve productivity and efficiency while lowering the total cost of ownership.
Intermec PB22 Rugged 2" Mobile Label / Receipt Printer
	The Intermec rugged mobile label printer family delivers the fastest choice for customers with demanding applications in warehousing, distribution, in-store retail and enterprise asset management. Coupled with Intermec rugged mobile computers and software, the PB22 mobile label printer helps companies improve productivity and efficiency while lowering the total cost of ownership.
Zebra MZ 320 3" Mobile Receipt Printer
	Get the benefits and value associated with Zebra with MZ 320 economical receipt printers. Each tiny MZ printer can be a smart assistant for mobile receipt printing applications where you need quick, simple receipts on demand. Use Bluetooth® to connect to a handheld or smart phone device and produce crisp, clear receipts!
Zebra RW 420 Rugged 4" Mobile Reciept Printer
	Designed for the Road Warrior, the Zebra RW 420 is a mobile printer ideal for printing delivery receipts and invoices on the go. Its modular design allows users to choose among wireless options, card readers, and integral accessories such as vehicle mounts for simplified route printing. Its convenient vehicle mounting and charging options, as well as its user-intuitive interfaces and angled display, allow for easy use while on the go!