Handheld terminal wins design award

The iF product design award is sponsored by International Forum Design of Hanover, Germany, and is recognised around the world. The entries are judged not only on their design, but also on criteria such as quality, price, and environmental consideration. There were over 2,700 entries from 35 countries, and 821 entries received awards. The DT-X7 grip-type handheld terminal with laser scanner is It features improved scanning performance. The leading edge of the DT-X7 is angled to enable users to intuitively determine the correct angle of emission for the laser scanner. Also featured are a total of three scanning trigger keys — a large centre trigger key and one on each side — ensuring that scanning can be accomplished smoothly and comfortably in any position. The device also incorporates a vibration function that allows the user to easily confirm scanning input even in noisy work environments. The keyboard is laid out with the most frequently used keys positioned in reach of the natural movements of users’ fingers. With improved keystroke design and finger pressure settings, the key touch has been refined to ensure minimal strain on users, even when they have to operate the terminal for an extended period of time. The design also features raised ridges between keys to reduce the risk of simultaneously pressing adjacent keys. The four coloured function keys can be programmed to aid navigation around a user application or invoke frequently used functions ensuring maximum ease of use and efficient operation. It is designed for a natural fit in the hand, with a rounded and dimpled form that fits naturally in anyone’s palm and allows the fingers to rest firmly in the groove on the back of the case. The dimpled texture on both sides improves grip-ability, and the terminal’s centre of gravity is positioned right under the centre trigger key. These design considerations deliver an outstanding user experience for a device of this type. The DT-X7 comes with the Windows CE 5.0 operating system pre-installed. The built-in speaker and the operating system enable voice sound output. Voice-based guidance applications can be developed simply by producing voice files, to lead users through operational procedures when inspecting goods or undertaking price checks, etc. This means the user does not have to look at the screen every time when operating the terminal, which reduces strain caused by repetitive tasks and increases productivity. The DT-X7 offers outstanding performance in various environments, with dust and splash-proofing (IP 54 level) and shock-resistant toughness able to withstand being dropped from heights up to one metre on concrete, as well as extreme temperatures down to -10 °C or up to +50 °C