A HAND-held computer, designed to be waterproof and shockproof, may revolutionise the approach to technology.

The pioneering high-powered machine, capable of running all Windows applications, is the brainchild of Tees Valley firm CTEC.

The company has spent the past three years developing the technology necessary to overcome the frailties that usually restrict computers to a warm and dry environment.

Such is the potential of the machine that CTEC, of Stockton, has attracted a significant investment from UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE).

Made up of loan and equity funding accessed through the DTI-backed Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme and the North of England Venture Fund, the investment will assist the launch and further development work on new models due to be introduced later this year.

Simon Hamilton, investment executive with UKSE, said: "The appeal of this machine is immense as it can really go anywhere - from hot dry and dusty environments to dirty, wet and even underwater ones.

"The company is already talking to a wide range of customers in the rail, oil and agriculture industries, but its unique selling points could take it out to sea, on board fire engines or into battle with the Army."

The computer features a full-colour screen, on-board mouse, a querty keyboard and a powerful processor.

According to Mark Waters, managing director of CTEC, the latest model has flown through field tests.

He said: "As well as exploring a huge range of options here in the UK, we are also promoting the product in 17 countries around the world, via the DTI.

"If it is as successful as we think it will be, the result could be more than 80 new jobs in the next six months alone."