BARTEC SP9 EX1: How Does It Compare Against The Old Pixavi Phone?

The Pixavi Phone has reached end-of-life, and BARTEC has followed it up with the SP9 EX1. If you’re using Pixavi Phones or looking for intrinsically safe smartphones, here’s what you need to know about the new model.

Quick Comparison Table

Look and Feel

Specs are great, but sometimes you just want to see the thing in action. We made a quick hands-on video so you can get a feel for the size, screen, and build of the SP9 EX1. Check it out below.

The Processing Upgrade

The move from Snapdragon 660 to QCM6490 brings significant performance improvements. The new processor uses a 6nm manufacturing process compared to 14nm in the older chip, which means better performance with less power consumption.

In practical terms, the SP9 EX1 handles multiple apps simultaneously without slowdowns. Industrial applications that combine video streaming, data collection, and communication tools run smoothly together. The 8GB RAM eliminates the memory constraints that could cause app closures and reloads on 4GB systems.

For storage, the SP9 EX1 uses UFS 3.1 instead of the slower eMMC storage in older devices. File transfers, app launches, and system operations are noticeably faster. While you lose expandable storage via MicroSD, the 128GB internal storage provides twice the capacity of the base Pixavi Phone.

5G and WiFi 6 in Industrial Environments

The connectivity upgrade is perhaps the most significant change. 5G enables ultra-low latency communication – under 20ms compared to 50-100ms on 4G networks. This makes real-time remote control applications more practical.

Higher bandwidth supports live 4K video streaming for remote assistance and training. Large file uploads that took minutes on 4G networks complete in seconds with 5G.

WiFi 6 brings similar improvements to local network performance. The new standard handles four times more connected devices per access point without performance degradation. In industrial facilities with extensive wireless infrastructure, this prevents the slowdowns and connection drops common with older WiFi standards.

Target Wake Time functionality in WiFi 6 can extend battery life by up to 30% in wireless-heavy environments by reducing how often the radio checks for data.

Explosion Safety Certification Improvements

The SP9 EX1 carries an “ia” intrinsic safety rating compared to “ib” on the Pixavi Phone. This represents a higher level of protection. Category “a” devices can be used in Zone 0 environments and provide greater fault tolerance than category “b” equipment.

Both devices meet IP68 environmental protection standards. Operating temperature ranges are similar, with the SP9 EX1 rated for -20°C to +50°C.

Camera and Display Changes

The main camera jumps from 12MP to 48MP, providing more detail for inspection documentation. The larger 6.1″ display gives more screen real estate for technical drawings and data sheets. Gorilla Glass Victus provides better drop and scratch protection than the standard Corning glass on the Pixavi Phone.

The SP9 EX1 is slightly heavier than the Pixavi Phone, but the difference is negligible in daily use. You won’t notice the extra grams, especially given the increased battery capacity and rugged construction.

Battery Life and Charging

The 4300mAh battery provides 34% more capacity than the 3200mAh unit in the Pixavi Phone. Combined with the more efficient processor, this significantly extends operating time between charges.

Both devices require charging outside hazardous areas. Always make sure to consult the Ex manual to ensure safe use. The battery may not be removed in the hazardous area under any circumstance.

Android Support and Longevity

Android 13 on the SP9 EX1 includes the latest security patches and application compatibility. BARTEC has committed to supporting Android versions through Android 15, providing several years of software updates.

The discontinued Pixavi Phone runs Android 11 with no further updates planned. This will create increasing security vulnerabilities and application compatibility issues over time.

Practical Deployment Considerations

For organizations replacing Pixavi Phones, the transition is straightforward. The SP9 EX1 runs the same Android applications and supports the same BARTEC accessories.

New deployments benefit from starting with current-generation hardware. The 5G and WiFi 6 capabilities provide room for growth as industrial networks upgrade their infrastructure.

The higher initial cost is offset by longer device lifecycle, better performance, and enhanced capabilities that improve operational efficiency.

Getting the SP9 EX1

The SP9 EX1 is available now through Cobic-Ex – official BARTEC distributor and your go-to source for ATEX-certified smartphones.