Xplore Technologies Corp.

The company's new product, RangerX, is a different type of tablet for Xplore. Typically Xplore's tablets weigh about

5 pounds and are made for extreme conditions and hazardous environments. RangerX still fits the rugged tablet mold, but weighs in at 2.2 pounds and has a multi-touch screen, said Jim Plas, vice president of marketing and sales at Xplore.

RangerX could be used by many industries, including the military, an outdoors enthusiast who wants to take photos and access Wi-Fi, or it can be tailored for the telecommunications industry, Plas said. It can test broadband through an Ethernet connection, and the tablet screen has the capability to be used as a monitor to test satellite television. Xplore's products are used by companies such as AT&T, FedEx, Nissan, Raytheon Co. and the U.S. Army.

Xplore began to develop RangerX after Holleran was approached two years ago by a customer, who said there is a need for a lightweight, rugged tablet.

"We're the world's expert in rugged tablet computing, and so we wanted to bring something out [that is] unique," Holleran said. "We do build the most rugged PC in the world today and [will continue to do so] in the future."

RangerX could also be used by executives, as it offers a smart access card reader to protect data, which allows the tablet to be accessed with an ID badge, Plas said.

Xplore became profitable for the first time this year and saw an 11 percent increase in revenue. Holleran said as many continue to prefer tablets to netbooks, Xplore is at an advantage because of its 16 years' experience in the business.

Xplore Technologies Corp.

1400 Summit Drive, Ste. 900

512-336-7797

www.xploretech.com