Symbol Technologies Introduces Next Generation Wearable Mobile Computer

Symbol Technologies Introduces Next Generation Wearable Mobile Computer

October 10, 2006

Industry Pioneer Meets Demand for Hands-Free, Voice-Directed Functionality in Extreme Environments

    AMSTERDAM, Netherlands, Oct. 10 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
Post Expo -- Symbol Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: SBL), The
Enterprise Mobility Company(TM), today introduced a new
wearable mobile computer and scanner system for
high-performance computing in extreme environments. 
Designed for warehouse and distribution customers that
require hands-free operation, the WT4000 series of wearable
mobile computers deliver increased productivity to
industrial applications including distribution center order
picking, receiving, replenishment, loading, maintenance and
repair. In addition, it is well-suited for logistics
applications including package sorting and handling.

    (Logo: 
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041029/SYMBOLOGO )  

    Worn on either the wrist or the hip, Symbol's WT4000
series of wearable mobile computers allow users to move
freely and scan data, access business-critical information,
and accurately perform data entry in real-time.  For maximum
flexibility, Symbol's new wearable mobile computer also
offers headset support for voice picking.  

    "Target Express chose Symbol's wearable mobile
computers and MC3090 series of mobile computers because
they offered all of the features needed to connect our
people in real-time and drive our business expansion,"
said Chris Bale, information technology director, Target
Express.  "One critical benefit has been the reduction
of our integration workload which has been simplified by the
fact that Symbol's products are optimized to work together
across data capture, wireless data transmission and device
management. Symbol's platforming approach also meant that
the application work we did earlier this year for the
MC3090 mobile computer was easily adapted for the new
wearable mobile computer -- delivering on the investment
protection promise." 

    Featuring IP-54 sealing rating and the ability to
withstand four foot drops to concrete across a range of
operating temperatures, the new WT4000 wearable mobile
computer system is built to withstand the rigors of
everyday use in the most demanding environments including
dusty warehouse floors and cold storage freezers.  With its
hands-free and highly ergonomic design, Symbol's new
wearable mobile computer supports voice-only, text-only and
combination voice and text applications to meet the
versatile needs of Symbol customers. 
   
    "Symbol's new wearable mobile computer and scanner
system offers the multi-modal voice and data capabilities
necessary to significantly improve warehouse and supply
chain operations," said Steve Banker, analyst, ARC
Advisory Group.  "I believe this new device will not
only increase productivity, but will also improve worker
satisfaction with a versatile mobile computing tool for a
variety of applications."

    Symbol's new RS309 and RS409 scanners deliver
high-performance scanning and accurate reading of both
poorly printed and damaged bar codes.  The RS309 wearable
scanner delivers a wide scan range for workers picking
items to fill orders in the warehouse, and also provides
protection from condensation when moving between freezer
and non-freezer environments. Positioned out of the way on
the back of the hand, the RS309 scanner generally can be
worn for a full shift without fatigue. 

    The RS409 ring scanner offers form and function,
allowing unparalleled freedom of movement and versatility
in scanning, picking, and sorting applications.  The RS409
scanner is a lightweight, rugged device delivering the
latest in scanning technology for everyday use both indoors
and outdoors. The RS409 can be worn directly on the finger
or over a gloved hand, and is ideal for a wide range of
applications -- from workers processing deliveries in a
postal facility to pickers loading cases of produce onto a
pallet truck to hospitality workers scanning lift tickets
on a ski slope.

    "Symbol is the pioneer of the wearable mobile
computing category and the new WT4000 series of wearable
mobile computers is the result of more than a decade of
experience designing, selling and supporting wearable
mobile computing products," said Brian Viscount, vice
president of product marketing for Symbol's Mobile
Computing Division. "With the development of
ergonomics that improve user comfort and safety, as well as
increased ruggedization, the new WT4000 series is Symbol's
third generation wearable mobile computer and sets the
standard for productivity enhancements for workers across a
range of warehouse and logistics environments."   

    Symbol devices are utilized in harsh environments and
often subjected to abuse that would cause most other
products to fail. Given their importance to business
operations, even the most rugged and dependable products
require a maintenance plan and a support strategy.  The
WT4000 series of wearable mobile computers are eligible for
Service from the Start with Comprehensive Coverage, which
significantly reduces unforeseen repair expenses by
covering accidental damage to displays, keypads, and other
internal and external components at no extra charge. In
addition, Service from the Start Service Center Support
agreements help to maximize uptime on the RS309 and RS409
scanners -- ensuring customers derive full value from their
technology investment.

    About Symbol Technologies 

    Symbol Technologies, Inc., The Enterprise Mobility
Company(TM), is a recognized worldwide leader in enterprise
mobility, delivering products and solutions that capture,
move and manage information in real time to and from the
point of business activity. Symbol enterprise mobility
solutions integrate advanced data capture products, radio
frequency identification technology, mobile computing
platforms, wireless infrastructure, mobility software and
world-class services programs. Symbol enterprise mobility
products and solutions are proven to increase workforce
productivity, reduce operating costs, drive operational
efficiencies and realize competitive advantages for the
world's leading companies.

    For more information, please contact:

    For media information:

     Traci Hoch                        
     Symbol Technologies, Inc.         
     Tel:   [phone]                      
     Email: [e-mail]      
           
     Susan Toh
     Symbol Technologies
     Tel:   [phone]
     Email: [e-mail]

     Ana Williams                      
     Spark Communications              
     Tel:   [phone]              
     Email: [e-mail]              

     Ethan Rasiel
     Edelman Public Relations
     Tel:   [phone]
     Email: [e-mail]

    For financial information: 
       
     Lori Chaitman                     
     Symbol Technologies, Inc.         
     Tel:   [phone]                      
     Email: [e-mail]          

    For industry analyst information:

     Shirley Schroedl
     Symbol Technologies, Inc.
     Tel:   [phone]
     Email: [e-mail]

SOURCE  Symbol Technologies, Inc.