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NEWS

Bluetooth-enabled barcode reader is worn like a ring

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From "Socket Communications Unveils Industry First Cordless Ring Scanner for Bluetooth," PhoneMag, 17 January:

"...A first of its kind product, the [CRS 9P] ...combines the power of laser bar code scanning with the convenience of Bluetooth wireless technology to provide an efficient, hands-free solution that makes scanning as simple as pointing a finger.

" 'The underpinnings of many industries involve moving items from point A to point B in the most efficient and cost-effective way,' said Peter Phillips, vice president of marketing at Socket.

" 'The Cordless Ring Scanner is extremely beneficial for employees that scan everyday, all day. As a hands free scanning solution, the Cordless Ring Scanner enables users to handle materials, goods and packages quickly and efficiently without picking up and putting down a big, clumsy gun scanner to scan bar codes.'

"The CRS 9P is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably on the index finger and utilizes an exclusive Liquidmetal casing, which is over twice [as strong as] titanium, enabling a lighter, more compact design. The CRS 9P is IP54 compliant for water and dust resistance and can sustain multiple drops from four feet. The CRS 9P also features Fuzzy Logic technology for scanning damaged, poor quality or hard-to-read bar codes....

"The CRS 9P is tethered to a Class 1 Bluetooth device that is strapped on the wrist. The Bluetooth wrist device transmits scanned data wirelessly to a mobile computer. The wireless wrist module has a powerful Bluetooth radio that maintains a strong connection to the mobile computer without dangling cables or protruding antennas to slow the user down, restrict their movement or cause potential hazards...

"When connected to the Class 2 Bluetooth radio found in many host devices, CRS range should be approximately 50 percent greater when used in an indoor environment and 100 percent greater when used outdoors...

"The CRS will be available... for [a manufacturer's suggested retail price] of $1199 starting in February 2006."

[Bluetooth: 18 January 2006]