IFA 2014: ecom to launch Tablet Computer

To be used by mobile workers in Oil & Gas, Refining, Chemical, Pharmaceuticals and other hazardous industries, ecom hazardous area tablet Tab-Ex brings new customer-focussed solutions. An entire family of tablets, aligned with Samsung, suitable for use in Zone 1/Division 1, Zone 2/Division 2, and rugged environments are being launched for worldwide use.

The launch of ecom's new hazardous area tablet computer solution Tab-Ex series triggers a paradigm shift in the way mobile workers work and interact with each other, their remote experts, and the backend systems. This way of working brings with it the opportunity for improved decision-making, improved mobile worker collaboration, and new levels of efficiency and collected data quality related to work tasks performed in hazardous areas.

"The state-of-the-art GALAXY Tab Active product with its unique features is the ideal platform for ecom to take the challenge in developing the world´s first Zone 1 / Div. 1 tablet computer for hazardous areas. The partnership with Samsung enabled us to gain benefits of the GALAXY Tab Active to hazardous area users and industries. In striving to make the daily work cycle as effective as possible, we rely on strong partnerships and close development cooperation with the world market leaders in non-explosion-protected products," said Rolf Nied, Founder & Managing Director at ecom instruments.

Lightweight and compact, operating on Android Kitkat 4.4, the Tab-Ex is suitable for multiple mobile worker roles performing a range of applications, including Asset Surveys, Material Tracking, Operator Rounds, Inspection and Maintenance. The 8" screen enables standard desktop applications to become mobile in hazardous areas, allowing workers to view and interact with SCADA/DCS systems, enterprise systems (SAP, Maximo), and computer-aided design systems, when they are moving around the hazardous area. Augmented reality and video conferencing also become much easier to use with Tab-Ex.

Built-in cameras and a full range of wireless capability allow equipment defects to be captured as inspection and maintenance work is executed, and is instantly visible to those who need to diagnose the issue and determine the follow-on actions.

The first in this series of tablets will be available in production quantities in 4Q 2014, with further versions being available soon after.