Intermec Adds Wireless Voice Over Internet Protocol to 802.11b-enabled 700 Series Mobile Computer

January 16, 2002

-- Simplifies infrastructure and management by combining voice and data traffic over wireless network -- no special servers or gateways needed

-- A complete voice solution for retailers -- eliminates separate walkie-talkies, cell phones and radios

Intermec Technologies Corp. has added VoIP capabilities to its wireless-enabled 700 series of mobile computers, allowing retail clerks to stay accessible to answer questions, make decisions, and take customer requests, whether on the floor or in the back room, improving customer service and employee productivity.

The 700's "Voice over Internet Protocol" (VoIP) technology enables unit-to-unit voice communications over existing 802.11b wireless LAN infrastructures. Unlike current in-store voice communications technology, the 700 with VoIP provides enterprise-level communications, allowing workers to talk to anyone else on a corporate network with a 700 -- whether they are in the same store, a store across town or the distribution center across the country.

"Now workers in every store and warehouse can have instant voice communication to locate merchandise and solve problems for customers," said Scott Medford, director of retail business development for Intermec. "And it's done with the existing wireless and wired LAN infrastructure simply by adding software to a retailer's in-store data collection device."

The rugged 700 weighs less than 16 ounces with battery and is designed to fit comfortably in the hand. Using Microsoft's Pocket PC(R) 2002, it runs virtually all 32-bit Windows CE applications. To support the voice application, the 700 comes standard with full duplex audio capability and a standard 2.5mm headset jack designed to accept the widest possible variety of headset options available. The user-replaceable, rechargeable lithium ion battery delivers 8-to-10 hours of continuous use on a single charge for a full shift's work. Its rugged case withstands multiple four-foot drops onto concrete and its high-contrast, VGA touch screen delivers excellent readability indoors and out.

The 700 with VoIP solution package includes application software, installation guide, installation CD and standard cell phone-style hands-free earphone with microphone. The product will be available in the second quarter of 2002.

The 700 Series was named the best handheld/PDA device at the Field Enterprise Solutions 2001 trade show. Entrants were judged on innovation, end-user ROI, and quantifiable customer satisfaction.

Digital voice quality, comprehensive coverage, and manageability

The 700 Series with VoIP delivers consistently high, conversational quality voice throughout the coverage area without the garbled sound, echo or gaps typical of some VoIP systems. All that's required are 700 handhelds with integrated 802.11b, the VoIP application and a wireless 802.11b infrastructure. No servers or gateways are needed. Both the voice application and unit directory services can be centrally managed with all other aspects of the 700 via the Intermec 6920 enterprise device manager.


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