Unitech is back with a brand new device for the medical circles – the PA600 MCA (Mobile Clinical Assistant) that functions as a Windows-powered handheld computer, targeting healthcare providers. Not only is it able to handle the most rudimentary of computing tasks often associated with the medical sector, it also comes with an antimicrobial case (now that’s a nice touch) and a built-in RFID reader. The PA600 MCA is tough enough to shrug off four-foot drops according to the company, but that doesn’t mean one ought to go around testing such claims on purpose. It sure as heck won’t be able to stand up to a fling against the wall – a very real scenario should a patient get out of hand and assault the PA600 MCA in the process.

It must be noted that the Unitech PA600 ought not to be confused with Intel’s similarly named MCA reference platform for Windows tablets. It will run on Windows CE 5.0 in a handheld form factor, and for those familiar with devices for such industries, they will find the PA600 MCA to be extremely similar to an earlier offering which lacked 802.11b/g and RFID functionality. The PA600 MCA comes in a white-and-blue color scheme, and what’s interesting about it is the above-mentioned case made of special antimicrobal material. This material was specially created to prevent the spread of MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus) infections, which are more and more commonplace in hospitals these days.

Features of the PA600 MCA include built-in RFID capabilities, a 1D/2D barcode scanner, a 3.5″ touchscreen display with 320 x 240 resolution, an 18-key numeric keypad, all powered by a 520MHz Marvell PXA270 processor alongside 128 RAM, 320MB of flash storage and an SDIO expansion slot. You can choose to hook up the PA600 MCA to an optional docking station for added versatility when working from a desk, and USB ports are available to transfer data to and from a USB flash drive. No idea on how much it costs though, although it is readily available at press time.

Source: Windows for Devices