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Socket Raises the Bar on Hands-Free Bar Code Scanning SolutionsNEWARK, CA, Feb 04, 2009 (MARKET WIRE via COMTEX) -- Socket Mobile, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCKT), an innovative provider of mobile productivity solutions, today announced that it has launched a new version of its popular Socket Bluetooth Cordless Ring Scanner(TM) (CRS) Series 9 for use by mobile workers in a multitude of supply-chain environments. Since the Socket Bluetooth CRS was launched in 2005, it has seen adoption in the manufacturing, postal and shipping and logistics markets where seconds saved by using hands-free bar code scanning lead to improved worker productivity resulting in significant cost savings. The new Socket Bluetooth CRS features a lightweight, rugged LiquidMetal(R) design that is sealed to IP54 standards and can withstand multiple drops to concrete from 4 feet. The wearable ring scanner is worn on a finger and is connected to a lightweight Bluetooth module by a removable coiled cable that is worn on the wrist or arm. The Bluetooth module pairs with any Bluetooth-enabled handheld, wearable, fixed station or vehicle-mount computer and reliably transmits critical bar code data from up to 330 feet (100m) away, giving mobile workers unprecedented freedom of movement. Ideal for use in fast-moving environments where multi-tasking is essential, the hands-free, wearable design of the Socket Bluetooth CRS enables workers to switch tasks without having to pick up or put down scanners, increasing worker productivity at manufacturing facilities and warehouses. Handling more than 80 million packages and letters every day, the Royal Mail Postal Service in the United Kingdom uses the Socket Bluetooth CRS to gain real-time visibility into the location of tracked items during each step of the delivery process, which helps to improve customer service and reduce operating costs. The Socket Bluetooth CRS has also been deployed by Lightning Source, Inc., who processes an average of 1.3 million books per month and uses the hands-free bar code scanner to facilitate rapid order fulfillment for their print-on-demand and distribution service for the publishing industry. "Our customers have seen 10% to 20% reductions in process times using the Socket Bluetooth CRS," said Bob Zink, senior vice president of worldwide sales and marketing at Socket. "Shipping operators scan hundreds to thousands of packages for distribution daily, and the hands-free functionality of the scanner makes the process more efficient because workers don't have to pick up or put down extra tools. When you're scanning a few thousand items a day, saving a few seconds can make a big difference." New features included in the latest version of the Socket Bluetooth CRS are as follows: -- IP54 compliance for use in rugged environments -- A washable wrist strap for hygienic use by multiple workers -- Tangle-free, adjustable and removable coiled cable to comfortably accommodate different forearm sizes -- Improved Socket ActivePairing(TM) functionality so users can easily pair the CRS with any compatible Bluetooth enabled computer -- Hardware design conforms to extreme safety measures providing safe operating conditions Pricing and Availability The Socket Bluetooth Cordless Ring Scanner Series 9 is available now with a MSRP starting at $1,099. For more information contact a Socket sales representative. About Socket Mobile, Inc. Socket makes mobility computing and productivity work. The company is a one-stop supplier of mobile computing hardware systems, offering a handheld mobile computer specifically designed for business mobility use and an extensive portfolio of essential mobile data collection and networking peripherals that enable mobile automation and productivity increases. The company also offers OEM solutions. Socket is headquartered in Newark, Calif. and can be reached at 510-933-3000 or www.socketmobile.com Socket and CRS are trademarks or registered trademarks of Socket Mobile, Inc. All other trademarks and trade names contained herein may be those of their respective owners. Copyright 2009, Socket Mobile, Inc. All rights reserved. SOURCE: Socket Mobile, Inc. |