Motion Computing's Oak Trail-powered CL900 is one tough Win 7 tablet

Boy, have we seen a bunch of Windows 7 slates in our day -- most with delicate capacitive displays, sluggish software layers, and older Intel Atom processors -- but Motion Computing's new CL900 seems to be a totally different beast. Aimed at enterprise and vertical markets, the 10.1-inch tablet runs Windows 7 Professional and is powered by Intel's forthcoming Oak Trail Atom processor. We don't know much about that silicon performance yet, but the company's promising up to eight hours of battery life as well as 1080p playback over HDMI. However, the CL900's real appeal comes in its rugged case and screen. The 2.1-pound tablet (though, it feels a bit heavier than that in hand) has met the MIL-STD-810G spec, so it can survive a four foot drop and its Corning Gorilla Glass display should be able to withstand, oh you know, a pen stab. As for the actual 1366x768-resolution touchscreen, it has a capacitive layer, but also can be configured with an active digitizer for a really solid inking experience. We got a chance to put stylus to screen on an early model Motion was showing off and the digital writing experience seemed quite smooth and responsive. As you can see in the gallery below, the tablet is also home to two cameras, a USB port, and microSD card and SIM card slot. We told you it was spec'd to kill, but with the company promising an MSRP of less than $1,000 it could be priced to kill as well. Hit the break for the full press release and don't forget to peruse the images below.
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Updated: You'll notice that in this picture the CL900 is running ExoPC's UI layer. Motion Computing told us that it is currently experimenting with the Windows layer, but it doesn't have any formal plans to ship with it preloaded.

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Motion Announces its First Ultra-Light, Rugged Tablet PC with
Versatile Flexibility

The new Motion CL900 offers dual touch and stylus input, a rugged design and
robust connectivity for on-the-go collaboration

AUSTIN, Texas and LAS VEGAS – January 5, 2011 – Motion®, a leading global provider of tablet PCs and supporting mobility solutions, announced today from the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), its first small form factor, rugged tablet PC designed for productivity and business integration. The Motion® CL900 is a robust tablet with a flexible feature set that enables access to and utilization of data while mobile. Motion will be showcasing the tablet PC at the Hilton Las Vegas (LVCC), Suite #377, offering media and analysts the option to take video, preview and experience the tablet throughout CES. The CL900 is expected to be available early in the second quarter of 2011.

"Motion's new CL900 will enable users to take advantage of connected applications, while also supporting uninterrupted productivity in remote or disconnected areas," said David Altounian, Motion CEO. "We've combined our trademark rugged design and robust solution set with the connectivity and portability of a tablet that is designed and built for business."

Architected for Versatility
The new Motion CL900 is built based on customer demand for a mobile and integrated device that offers the capabilities to support mobile workflows. Architected for future expansion, the CL900 will feature a peripheral module that will enable simple device expansion. Tightly secured and integrated into the device, the peripheral module will incorporate key documentation tools without compromising durability. Peripheral modules will be released later in 2011.

Connected, Light and Rugged
The CL900 maximizes mobility and portability. From the hospital to the job site or retail store, the tablet will stand up to harsh conditions, while enabling real-time collaboration and access to information. Advanced durability, connectivity and mobility features include:
• Up to eight hours of battery life for all-day, uninterrupted productivity
• Lightweight and rugged design that offers the protection of the MIL-STD-810G specification (four foot drop test) at only 2.1 pounds and less than 16mm thick
• IP-52 rated exterior to protect against dust, moisture and other elements
• Optional integrated Gobi™ 3000 mobile broadband with GPS, 802.11 a/b/g/n WLAN, Bluetooth® 3.0, and a wireless SIM port for advanced communications
• Display with Corning® Gorilla® Glass display for added durability and scratch resistance and incorporated DuPont Vertak™ to improve visibility in various lighting conditions

"The CL900 meets one of the fastest growing areas of Enterprise demand in the current refresh cycle; business-ready tablet devices that improve worker productivity and meet security and compliance needs," said Eddie O'Brien, Microsoft U.S. OEM Vice President. "By harnessing the power of the Microsoft platform to introduce a new and innovative form factor that supports significant mobile functionality and easily integrates into existing business infrastructures, Motion can differentiate itself to reach across industries and compete for new lines of business."


Built for Business Integration
The CL900 was designed to integrate seamlessly into business environments. Running Microsoft® Windows® 7 and powered by the upcoming Intel® Atom™ processor currently codenamed "Oak Trail", the CL900 balances power, performance and battery life. Additionally, IT serviceability and enterprise support options help ensure uptime and reduce IT resource drain. Business benefits include:
• The ability to run existing applications, lowering the cost of deployment
• The performance needed to simultaneously run multiple enterprise applications
• Bright display that offers the convenience of both touch and stylus input
• 30GB or 62GB solid state drive (SSD), and up to 2GB of RAM

The new Intel Atom processor is specifically designed for tablet PCs and mobile workflows that require a balance of productivity and battery life. An enhanced version of the Atom line of processors, "Oak Trail" will offer the responsiveness, security and manageability required for mobile users in business environments.

"Motion's latest tablet is a perfect example of the power and productivity available in enterprise-based mobility solutions," said René Torres, director of marketing, Netbook and Tablet Group, Intel. "With the power and performance of our upcoming 'Oak Trail' Intel Atom processor, along with the mobility and durability of the CL900, Motion is delivering an ideal productivity tool for workers on the move."

Versatile and Configurable
Additionally, the unique design of the CL900 offers multiple optional features and connectivity ports to improve functionality for a variety of different uses. Documentation and expansion features include:
• Front and rear-facing cameras to support documentation, video conferencing and collaboration
• A full complement of ports, including USB, SD Card, audio and video to simplify the use of industry standard peripheral solutions
• A unique countertop docking station that optimizes the CL900 for touch input and adds a simple and easy way to integrate peripherals
• A variety of cases and straps to accommodate multiple usage patterns

Powerful and Affordable
With a planned starting MSRP of less than U.S. $1000 the CL900 offers a competitive entry price point to other tablet PCs with a unique, rugged design that supports a lower total cost of ownership over non-rugged devices. The CL900 will be available to ship early in the second quarter of 2011 while the optional peripheral module will be available later in the first half of the year. For more information on the CL900 or to register for product updates, please visit the CL900 Product Page. To access high resolution product photos please visit the CL900 Images Page.

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About Motion Computing
Motion Computing is a leading global provider of tablet PCs and supporting mobility solutions, combining world-class products with services customized for the unique needs of target vertical markets. The company's enhanced line of rugged tablet PCs, mobile point of care solutions and accessories are designed to increase mobile productivity while providing portability, security, power and versatility. For more information visit www.MotionComputing.com.


Motion Computing and Motion are registered trademarks of Motion Computing, Inc, in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.