Handheld PC taps into back-end applications

EVERETT, WASH. - A specially designed handheld PC, based on the Windows CE operating system, is aimed at an emerging breed of data collection applications.

Intermec Technologies' Inter-mec 5020 breaks with traditional DOS-based devices by running the 32-bit Windows CE operating system, which supports an array of network options and a graphical user interface. The device is now beginning beta testing.

Intermec's new computer has one card slot, typically for a radio interface, and a CompactFlash slot for additional memory or software. The 5020 in standard mode runs as a batch device connecting to a host, but it can be upgraded via the card slot to support the Wireless LAN Interoperability Forum's OpenAir specification, which will let the 5020 work with OpenAir-compatible wireless nets. Alternatively, the device can be upgraded to support IEEE 802.11 2.4-GHz radio links to corporate LANs.

The 24-ounce Intermec 5020 can be used to scan bar code data. An Intermec program called Intelligent Data Server reads the data and connects to an Ethernet LAN via a wireless radio link. The program sends the data to the appropriate server application. For example, data about a new shipment of parts will be sent to the inventory server, while data on a user's timecard will be sent to a payroll application.

"This will be a compelling device," says Jill House, an analyst with International Data Corp., a Framingham, Mass., market research company.

"Using Windows CE lowers the cost of these devices, and they can be pretty easily incorporated into Windows computing environments. The Intermec product offers the ability to incorporate support for back-end systems. That makes possible enterprise-wide data collection - you can collect data, and it's available for everyone," she says.

Intermec has also created other software programs for the data collection device.

The Remote Unit Manager includes a compact HTTP server as well as an SNMP agent that lets administrators remotely manage the device over a network.

The SNMP support allows administrators to update software applications and run backups, as well as delete and replace corrupted data.

Intermec has more than 200 value-added resellers and integrators that develop applications for specific industries or create interfaces to back-end applications, such as SAP AG's R/3. Intermec competes with Symbol Technologies, among others.

The 5020 will be available in mid-April, with a list price ranging from $2,000 to $4,000, depending on whether the customer includes the radio interface and bar code scanner.

Intermec: (800) 347-2636