TouchStar spreads its wings and offers even more flexibility with its latest rugged mobile computer

Over two decades ago, TouchStar became pioneers of solid and portable touchscreen computers, acquiring a huge installed base and blue chip clients that include most of the World's biggest airlines and the giants of the fuel industry, such as Total and BP. TouchStar has recently added to it's family of rugged mobile and vehicle-mount computers, with the launch of the new TouchPC Kestrel. The rugged mobile computer packs a powerful feature set that can be deployed in many industrial environments. The Kestrel provides excellent functionality for all mobile computing applications, whether on a van delivering the morning bread or delivering the fuel for domestic central heating systems.

Key features
- Unrivalled Clarity: The TouchPC Kestrel
provides maximum unobstructed visibility with its sharp 640 by 480 (101mm x 75mm) full VGA TFT colour display that supports virtually any software application. The bright, touch-sensitive display is readable in all lighting conditions.
- Integral Printer: An integral 2" or 3" printer avoids the need to use a separate portable unit, eliminating the need for battery management of a second device.
- Integral Scanning: Integrated bar code scanner and mag-stripe card reader (optional)
- Designed with the end-user in mind: The ergonomics of the unit have been maximised in order to allow for comfortable extended operation when used outside of its vehicle mounting.
- Industry Standard Operating Systems & Components: The Embedded Windows CE 5 based Kestrel comes with an Intel XScale processor. This ensures that applications run at maximum power and speed.
- Superior Communications: On-Board GPRS allows the transmission of captured data from a remote to a central office location via an external data network. The on-board GSM module also provides the ability to make mobile telephone calls via Bluetooth connection to an external audio device. Integrated GPS also enables vehicle navigation and tracking using TomTom software. Vehicle location can constantly be transmitted in Real time, this ensures visibility of your mobile work force in Real time. Integrated Bluetooth allows the Kestrel to upload and download data or communicate with a separate printer or barcode reader, if required.
- Multiple Connectivity: Serial RS232 port and a USB port allow easy connectivity to a large range of peripherals.
- The vehicle cradle makes docking and removal of the Kestrel a simple task, however, it holds the Kestrel securely whilst the vehicle is in motion.

Standards Compliance
- Impact resistant, flame retardant UV stabilised polycarbonate case
- CE Emission EN55022: 1998 Class B Limit
- EN55024: 1998 Amendment A1:2001 Annex B, FCC, CFR: 47 March 2003 Part 15.107, 15.109, Limit B
- EMC Testing: AS3548 (Australia)
- Emissions: RTCA/DO160D Limit M (for on- board aircraft usage) (Global)
- Compass Safe distance: RTCA 160D Section 15.3 & Class Z (for on-board aircraft usage) (Global)

Typical Application Areas for the Kestrel
In common with the entire range of TouchPC units, the Kestrel has been designed to fulfill a huge variety of commercial mobile computing applications. Client requirements don't start and stop with hardware procurement. Clients require software that will facilitate the move towards a rapid data capture environment, regardless of the industry sector within which they operate. In order to achieve this they also need to secure a seamless interface between software and hardware. TouchStar can provide a multitude of software packages, developed over many years and governed by an intimate understanding of the industry sector which they are aimed at. TouchStar can also provide clients with an added and vital reassurance... the Kestrel is part of a proven, fully integrated and robust hardware-software solution.

The following represents two typical application areas for the Kestrel.

Van Sales
A typical scenario emphasising the Kestrel's capabilities, combined with TouchStar's VanStar software, can be found in a delivery scenario. At the start of a shift, the Kestrel is collected from its cradle where it has been fully charged overnight and all the days work has been uploaded via Ethernet from the main office. Once the operator places the Kestrel into his vehicle, he logs on and starts his shift. Instantly, the Kestrel tells the operator where to go by giving him turn by turn navigation instructions (Integrated TomTom Software) to his first drop. At each drop, the operator delivers the required product or products to the customer. Simply by following the on screen instructions, the driver can pick accurately the items and then capture a signature on the screen as Proof of Delivery. A receipt can then be printed and given to the customer. To save additional time, the Kestrel will now navigate the operator to the next customer site. Thus ensuring that the operator takes the best possible route to maximise fuel efficiency and reduce his carbon footprint. Data can also be transmitted to or from the Kestrel whilst out on the road. Should a potential customer wish to order an emergency delivery, the office can send a direct message to the Kestrel. In turn, this will be scheduled into the days work to maximise time and fuel efficiency. Once all deliveries have been complete, all the data recorded by the Kestrel can be sent back to the office, without the need for the operator to return to the depot. Invoicing can be done instantly a delivery has been made.

Airline Point of Sales
By combining the Kestrel with the software from sister company Novo Ivc, TouchStar are able to provide the World's most advanced, rugged, hand held, touch screen P. O.S. system. With fully integrated peripherals, extensive battery life and high speed processor, the Kestrel combines seamlessly with the SkyPos software system to revolutionise on-board retail.

TouchPC's and SkyPos software are already used by over 40 Airlines and caterers and this solution:
- Creates an audit trail - heightens control and reduces shrinkage
- Provides detailed reporting - optimizes product mix and price point
- Delivers full automation - electronic interfaces to banks, cashiers office, marketing, purchasing and HR scheduling
- Brings Increased efficiency - unrivalled levels of operational speed and ease of use
- Heightens customer perception of operator - cutting edge, professional and highly reliable retail solution
- Enables complex calculations - special offers, multiple foreign currencies, loyalty points and VAT allocation
- Large internal memory storage can hold thousands of transactions including details of all stolen credit cards from around the world.

Benefits
- Speeds up the flow of information for management analysis.
- Enables the matching of supply and demand to maximise profit margins.
- Gives greater flexibility in managing product mix, pricing and promotional activities.
- System reduces the amount of paperwork involved in the control of the retail business, both on the ground and en-route.
- SkyPos eradicates human error by making all calculations (e. g. VAT and foreign currency).
- The provision of a Kestrel touch screen mobile P. O.S. improves passenger perceptions of the sales experience, which is quick and easy with professional logoed receipts.
- Ability to record sales by seat using cabin planograms
- Improved auditing procedures and supplier monitoring
- Compatible with all USB data pens

Each Kestrel / SkyPOS system is designed to meet the individual requirements of each and every customer. By doing this TouchStar provide some of the world's largest Airlines with the level of service which they require to operate effectively in this most unique retail environment

In Summary
"The Kestrel offers an ideal combination of technology, performance and cost, all housed in a sleek black polycarbonate plastic case. Toughness and durability are always guaranteed with TouchStar products," said Chris Edwards, Marketing Manager at TouchStar Technologies. "Its versatility makes this mobile computer a smart choice for gaining efficiencies across multiple market applications."

The Kestrel is available to customers from November 2007 through TouchStar Technologies' sales offices and value-added resellers.

Touchstar Technologies Ltd
Chris Edwards
Tel: 0161 874 5050
www.touchstar.co.uk