Bureau of the Census, Procurement Office, FOB #3, Room 1541, Washington,(Suitland, MD) DC 20233

70 -- MOBILE COMPUTER SYSTEMS, REQUEST FOR INFORMATION POC Mr. Prabhu Sompalli, 301-457-1027 The Bureau of the Census is seeking information from interested vendors regarding mobile computer systems such as Notebooks, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistant), Pen Tablets, Handheld (Palm), etc., that can be used by its staff of 3,000 field representatives (FR). Currently, the Bureau of the Census uses computer assisted personal interviewing with notebook computer systems to collect information for its demographic and economic programs. Additionally, field activities that also use laptop technology include quick data entry operations, mapping operations, and administrative reporting. There is also an increasing need for email and web access. The Bureau of the Census is interested in mobile computer systems that will provide compatibility for existing applications, and offer state of the art features to enhance its field operations. Information is requested on the newest technologies and future trends in portable computing such as pen-based, voice input, audio recording, and wireless or cellular data communications. Currently, FRs collect information by visiting or telephoning respondents, which are primarily households, but may include businesses, government offices, schools, or hospitals. FRs usually do not have AC power available during information collection, and must rely on the portable computer system's power source. The FRs must often be required to stand for long periods under varying light conditions. The FRs currently use specialized questionnaire software to display survey questions and enter responses. Upon completion of the workday, information collected is transmitted to headquarters, and additional assignments are received. Similarly, the FRs will perform quick data entry operations by entering information, such as addresses and building permit data, on their portable computer systems using specialized software. Mapping operations require digitized maps to be displayed, and a capability to update the maps, for example, by drawing changes on the screen. Vendors should respond by presenting their solutions for Census Bureau field data collection activities. Information should include: complete hardware and software configurations including available system options, system specifications, operating system, available peripherals, information on new technologies and future trends, cost/pricing, and company background information (i.e., size, financial status, number of employees, product support policy). Vendors are requested to provide descriptive literature, commercial availability of proposed solutions or anticipated availability of new technologies, and expected pricing information along with complete technical information no later than 30 days from the date of this publication to the attention of U.S Bureau of the Census, Attn: Mr. Prabhu Sompalli, CASSRO, Basement -- Suitland House, Washington, DC 20233-3100. THIS IS NOT A SOLICITATION FOR BIDS OR PROPOSALS NOR IS IT INDICATIVE OF INTENT TO CONDUCT PROCUREMENT FOR A PORTABLE PERSONAL COMPUTER SYSTEM. Posted 10/07/99 (W-SN389961). (0280)

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