Socket Releases Windows XP Notebook and Tablet Support for Popular Cordless Hand Scanner with 'Fuzzy Logic'

NEWARK, Calif.--Nov. 9, 2004--

Innovative Bar Code Scanner with Integrated Bluetooth(R) Wireless Technology is Popular in Healthcare and Automotive Applications Because of its Small Size and Ability to Scan Auto VIN Numbers

Socket Communications, Inc. , the Mobile Connection(TM) Company, today announced the availability of software device drivers for its revolutionary Cordless Hand Scanner (CHS) for Windows XP Notebook and Tablet computers using Socket, Microsoft, or Widcomm-based Bluetooth radios. The Socket designed and developed bar code scanner has quickly become popular with Pocket PC users because of its small size, light weight and ultra-high performance fuzzy logic scanning that enables easy reading of damaged, poorly printed and hard-to-read bar codes. Combining the CHS with Bluetooth equipped Windows XP based notebooks, laptops and tablets, enables a wide range of scanning applications in the healthcare market, such as medication administration, pharmaceutical inventory control, and other mobile data collection activities which use these larger computers.

"This uniquely ergonomic product is proving that a traditional bulky scanner isn't necessary to achieve high performance scanning, excellent cordless range and great battery life," said Jack Brandon, Socket's senior business manager for scanner and RFID products. "At only nine ounces, the Cordless Hand Scanner can be comfortably carried in a pocket, attached to a belt loop or hung around the neck with the included retractable tether."

The Cordless Hand Scanner is part of Socket's growing Auto ID product line, all supported by Socket's proprietary SocketScan(TM) keyboard emulation software and software developer's kit (SDK). The CHS has the ability to automatically enter scanned data into Windows applications on a PDA, notebook, laptop, tablet or desktop up to 300 feet away without the hassle of cables or the awkwardness of a protruding antenna. It supports all popular bar code symbologies including UPC/EAN, Code 39, Code 128 and RSS-14 and is 2005 Sunrise Date compliant. The device uses minimal power, so it can be operated for hours without having to recharge batteries.

Pricing and Availability

Socket's Cordless Hand Scanner is compatible with Bluetooth enabled Pocket PC 2003 (Windows Mobile) and Windows XP Notebooks and Tablet computers and is available through Socket's website (www.socketcom.com) and through Socket's worldwide distribution channels. Software drivers for the product for use with Bluetooth enabled Palm OS v5.2 and later, and Symbian OS devices will be available later this quarter. The product comes in two configurations:

-- CX2800-489, Class 1 laser, for an MSRP of $649

-- CX2802-491, Class 2 laser, for an MSRP of $699

Customers who already have a Cordless Hand Scanner can download the latest SocketScan XP software from Socket's web site: http://www.socketcom.com/support/support_bar.asp.

About Socket

Socket Communications, Inc., the Mobile Connection(TM) Company, provides the broadest range of data collection and connectivity products for mobile computers, including Windows Mobile- based Pocket PCs, Windows CE devices, Palm PDAs and Smartphones, as well as Tablet PCs and notebooks. Socket's Mobility Friendly(TM) products are feature-rich while promoting ease of use and lead the market with the smallest footprint and the most Battery Friendly(R) power consumption in their class. Socket's Embedded Systems Group provides hardware developers with solutions using mobilityIC(TM) interface chips and KwikBlue(TM) modules with embedded Bluetooth(R) Wireless Technology. Socket is headquartered in Newark, California and can be reached at 510-744-2700 or www.socketcom.com.

Socket and Battery Friendly are registered trademarks of Socket Communications, Inc. The Mobile Connection Company, Mobility Friendly, and KwikBlue are trademarks of Socket Communications, Inc. The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Socket Communications, Inc. is under license. All other trademarks and trade names contained herein may be those of their respective owners. (C) 2004, Socket Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.