Latest News

MPC Data wins Microsoft Windows Embedded Training Award 15/10/2009

This award is a recognition of MPC Data's commitment to Windows Embedded technologies as well as our training and technical expertise. During the year from July 2008 to June 2009 MPC Data’s Microsoft-certified trainers helped almost 150 engineers from 70 different companies to improve their knowledge of the Windows Embedded products and tools. Our ‘broad reach’ training in the form of webinars, blogs and newsgroup postings has also helped countless other OEMs.

"We are very excited to receive this recognition of all the hard work that our Windows Embedded engineers and trainers have invested in the past 12 months” said Alan Rowe, Windows Embedded Group Director at MPC Data. "I would like to thank all of my team, whose commitment and technical knowledge sets us apart from the competition."

For details of our Windows Embedded Training courses, please click here. To speak to someone about our full range of Windows Embedded engineering and training services, please contact Windows@mpcdata.com

Microsoft releases Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R3 12/10/2009

• an embedded version of Microsoft’s Silverlight technology
• Adobe Flashlight 3.1.0 rendering
• Office and PDF file viewers
• Gesture-based input
• new Internet Explorer browser with pan and zoom features

Datalight releases FlashFX 'Tera' Intelligent Flash Media Manager with Support for SLC and MLC NAND 02/07/2009

The latest release of the Datalight FlashFX 'Tera' flash device management software brings support for the latest Multi Level Cell (MLC) based NAND flash devices. The combination of flash device management and the latest Datalight high reliability Reliance 'Nitro' flash file systems bring industrial grade protection of your embedded device's data.

FlashFX Tera is a flash management solution that frees developers from the volatility and constraints of single-source flash memory software. Versatility allows fast integration with over 300 flash chip part numbers. Dynamic chip select provides run-time flexibility of using just one driver image, saving money and lowering supply-line risks during production. Pre-written support includes SLC and MLC NAND and NOR parts from top manufacturers (Intel, Micron, Samsung, Toshiba, Numonyx and Spansion), fusion flash (such as Samsung OneNAND, FlexOneNAND or Spansion OrNAND), and application processor flash controllers (like Freescale MX and Texas Instruments OMAP). Our high performance, multi-threaded flash drivers provide superior wear-leveling, bad block management, garbage collection and fast read/write speeds.

MPC Data has collaborated with Datalight engineers to develop a compelling demonstration platform for the Datalight flash filesystems using the popular BeagleBoard hardware based on the high-performance Texas Instruments OMAP3530 device. Our Windows CE6.0 R2 board support package for the BeagleBoard is configured to run the same demo application using the stock Windows CE filesystem compared to Datalight's Reliance Nitro.

The video below illustrates why you should pay close attention to the integrity of your data on consumer, mobile and battery powered devices.

Find out more about the Datalight product range.

MPC Data helps Fleet Management company to cut costs by 30 per cent 26/06/2009

On-Board Computer Transforms Fleet Management and Cuts Costs by 30 Per Cent.
Transics International, which provides fleet management systems for transport and logistics companies, saw an opportunity to enhance its on-board computer with new technology. The features in the Windows Embedded CE 6.0 operating system inspired the organisation to develop an even more intuitive solution for users. Working with two Microsoft Windows Embedded Gold Partners, Transics developed the TX-MAX on-board computer. Enhancements to its operating system helped developers bring the computer to market quickly. The device, which is carried by drivers, communicates in real time with Transics fleet management software TX-CONNECT providing detailed information of each journey and helping customers optimise deliveries. Clients benefit from clear views of their businesses and reduced communications costs of around 30 per cent, while lower fuel consumption contributes to a cleaner environment.

Situation
Transics International, based in Belgium, provides fleet management solutions to the transport sector. Established in 1991 as the spin-off department of a software development company, it is now a leading player in the European fleet management systems market. Today, Transics solutions are used by more than 950 companies across Europe.

This market penetration can, in part, be attributed to the company’s approach to technology. Regular upgrades to the latest technologies help keep the company at the top of its game. Transics solutions include powerful fleet management solutions, which manage vehicles and support drivers in the field. These integrate with on-board computers. This innovative technology, built on earlier release versions of the Windows Embedded CE operating system, is installed in more than 60,000 vehicles, with a view to improving their operational efficiency by enhancing communications and cutting travelling distances.

"We met our expectations and are now helping customers reach their own return-on-investment targets. By developing our solutions on Windows Embedded CE 6.0, we can remain highly competitive."
Patrick Bustraen, Chief Technology Officer,Transics

In 2008, Transics saw an opportunity to develop a powerful new solution to cater to the needs of transport and logistics companies looking for even more intuitive tools. Advances in technology were opening up many new business uses for on-board systems. Patrick Bustraen, Chief Technology Officer, Transics, says: “We saw the potential to develop a new on-board computer with touch-screen features and more sophisticated controls. We wanted to enrich the driver experience and support transport companies in refining the management of vehicles in the field.”

Bustraen explains that components of some of its earlier solutions were due to become obsolete, while customers’ requirements for memory capacity were growing. “We needed to develop a solution on a more powerful processor, so it was essential that we upgraded to an operating system that could support our customers’ needs for years to come and ensured that we stayed ahead of our competitors,” he says.

Solution
From the start, the Transics team planned to base its new on-board computer on Windows Embedded CE 6.0. The latest release embedded operating system supports many thousands of processes simultaneously with a generous virtual memory capacity, giving developers the freedom to build more powerful tools. “In the past, we have evaluated a number of technologies, but Windows Embedded CE 6.0 offers us the features we need, such as advanced application programming interfaces. Its mobile development environment, the Microsoft .NET Compact Framework 3.5, ensures we can connect drivers for external interfaces such as CompactFlash—a format for mass storage devices, as well as connection standard Universal Serial Bus (USB). It also offers the highest performance and a stable environment,” says Bustraen.

Transics worked closely with two Microsoft Gold Certified Partners MPC Data and DSP Design, both experts in embedded technology, to build a smart, connected, service-oriented device—the TX-MAX. “We found the best partners through the Microsoft Windows Embedded Partner Programme list available on the Windows Embedded CE Web site,” says Bustraen. “MPC Data and DSP Design offered technology expertise that complemented our market knowledge.”

The TX-MAX is a user-friendly, intelligent on-board computer, which helps drivers manage their schedules, report to home base, and navigate the best way to their next destination. It works by integrating seamlessly with the Transics fleet management software TX-CONNECT, built with the Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 and 3.5 development systems.

Dispatchers send planning directly to drivers’ TX-MAX computers. As drivers carry out their daily tasks, a real-time connection to base ensures dispatchers keep track of vehicles. The device integrates with satellite navigation technology to give the driver the best route for the time of day and road conditions. Specialised Transics software automatically detects the vehicle’s movement. Bustraen explains: “When the vehicle stands still, the screen prompts the driver to provide information on the status of the truck, such as whether they are re-fuelling, unloading goods, or disconnecting a trailer.”

The solution also captures extra information that can be used to monitor journey efficiency and safety. For example, the device interfaces with a tachograph—a legally required instrument that records users’ driving and resting times, speed, and the distance travelled. Transics has also developed a remote control that attaches to the steering wheel. This way, drivers can easily and safely navigate through the menus on the TX-MAX without lifting their hands from the wheel.

Benefits
Transics aspires to help customers increase their return on investment by improving operational efficiency but also by cutting costs, meeting compliance standards, and protecting the environment. Working with Microsoft Gold Certified Partners, and by using its Windows Embedded operating system, Transics achieved its goal on schedule and within budget. Bustraen says: “We met our expectations and are now helping customers reach their own return-on-investment targets. By developing our solutions on Windows Embedded technology, we can remain highly competitive.”

Development Tools and Partnerships Accelerate Time to Market
With Windows Embedded CE 6.0, developers can bring devices to market more quickly. The tools provide key features and functionality, including the .NET Compact Framework 3.5 for managed application development. “We were able to build the solution with significantly less coding and make it available to customers exceptionally fast,” says Bustraen.

Throughout the project, Transics has relied on the support and resources of its Microsoft partners. They were critical in supporting the business to develop the product on time. “Windows Embedded products come with a life-cycle support policy, and this gives us access to a wider selection of integration partners,” says Bustraen. “The Microsoft Gold Certified Partner ecosystem played a major part in helping us achieve our goal. MPC Data and DSP Design are focused, highly skilled organisations and their expertise was vital to our success.”

Windows Embedded products come with a life-cycle support policy, and this gives us access to a wider selection of integration partners. Patrick Bustraen, Chief Technology Officer, Transics

Open Technology Broadens Customer Potential
Its use of open technology expands the market for Transics. The TX-MAX is easily customised to meet language or other local needs, and integrates with back-office applications, such as transport management and planning software.

“Our customers don’t like closed systems,” says Bustraen. “Windows Embedded CE 6.0 integrates with many technologies and offers access to industry standards along with support for smart card readers and Bluetooth. With this technology behind us, we can easily develop many new features for our customers.”

Customers Cut Communications Costs by 30 Per Cent
The TX-MAX helps Transics customers gain a clear view of their businesses and increase margins through better planning, helping them save time and cut costs. Companies can plan the most direct routes, or avoid toll roads and traffic congestion. According to Bustraen, more and more customers recognise the value of accurate, real-time information. “Customers like to use the data captured by the TX-MAX for analysis, such as comparing the exact costs of a journey with the income from that delivery,” he says. By refining each element of every journey, organisations are already well placed to make substantial savings.

Drivers can eliminate the administrative burden of completing forms or having to make telephone calls to contact head office. “Businesses can cut their communications costs by around 30 per cent,” says Bustraen. They can now simply get on with their work while their progress on the road is tracked and recorded in real time. This information, combined with tachograph data, helps businesses comply with legislation and safety standards, such as set driving and resting times, which they can monitor by downloading, transferring, and archiving data from the tachograph. The TX-MAX warns drivers when they are approaching restricted zones and reminds them to rest after predefined periods of time.

Businesses Meet Customer Expectations
Precise, up-to-date data from the field helps organisations cut waiting times and improve customer service. Using the TX-MAX, they can plan schedules efficiently to meet client expectations. A delivery company, for example, can see immediately if a delay is likely and take corrective action. Bustraen says: “If a driver is stuck in a traffic jam, an employee can contact the customer to let them know. Early receipt of such information can make a real difference to customer satisfaction.”

10 Per Cent Fuel Reduction Helps Protect Environment
The technology is also used for environment-related optimisation studies to help find ways to curb fuel consumption and carbon emissions. “Customers are more determined than ever to reduce their carbon footprint,” says Bustraen. “The TX-MAX makes that process far easier. It’s not only simple to reduce lost kilometres, but also to monitor the ways in which factors such as speed, driver skill, or times of day can make a difference to a company’s fuel efficiency. On average, companies can cut fuel consumption by 10 per cent and shorten their travelling distances by 15 per cent.”

Windows Embedded
The Windows Embedded family of products includes Windows Embedded CE, Windows Embedded Standard (the next generation of Windows XP Embedded), Windows Embedded Enterprise, and Windows Embedded for Point of Service. Offered under the Windows Embedded “Ready” moniker, our new connected device category solutions, NavReady and POSReady will ship as preconfigured toolkits with additional category specific functionality and integration. Each Windows Embedded operating system is deployed in demanding embedded environments, providing the proven platform you need to accelerate the development of the next generation of smart, connected, service-oriented devices.

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