Symbol's PPT 8800 Handheld

HOLTSVILLE, NY, Nov. 18, 2002 -- Symbol Technologies today introduced the PPT 8800, its latest PDA-format handheld computer, at COMDEX Fall 2002. Designed for mobile workers and managers within the enterprise who require a high-performance handheld computer far more durable and reliable than typical consumer devices, the PPT 8800 is powerful enough to execute mission critical applications, yet small and lightweight enough to be carried unobtrusively in a pocket or on the hip.

The Symbol PPT 8800 comes with integrated bar code scanning and wireless LAN connectivity, as well as a Bluetooth option - all in a rugged, sealed form factor similar in size to consumer-grade personal digital assistants. It also satisfies the requirements of corporate IT departments for streamlined wide-scale rollouts by offering enterprise-ready features such as simplified device management, wireless LAN utilities, and a full suite of cradles, peripherals and accessories.

"Our customers are looking for enterprise tools like the PPT 8800 that put the power of real-time information solutions right in the pocket of the mobile worker, supported by a broad array of software, peripherals and support that addresses their real business needs," said Harry B. Lerner, Symbol Vice President of PDA Products. "Symbol's mission is to eliminate the pain felt by IT managers while adding substantively to the operating performance of companies and enterprises in retail, healthcare, hospitality, public safety and many more markets," he added.

In the market for PDA format devices, the real-life needs of the corporate customer and mass consumer could not be further apart. While consumer class PDAs typically sell for a few hundred dollars in local retail stores, the total cost of ownership for a PDA in enterprise, according to a recent study by a leading industry analyst firm, can be as high as $3,000 a year per business user. Adding wireless connectivity to a PDA can increase this figure to nearly $4,400.

The Symbol PPT 8800 Series can lower that TCO substantially and represents a compelling option for IT executives and corporate managers who hope to manage the proliferation of such devices in their environments while harnessing their power for robust value-add operations. The PPT 8800 Series includes the Intel XScale PXA250 processor, Microsoft Windows CE .NET 4.1 and a vibrant transflective color display. These features enable the development of powerful, Windows-based applications for virtually any industry in which fast networking, multimedia, and Web browsing capabilities are a necessity.

The PPT 8800 also supports the Symbol AirBEAM family of mobility management tools, wireless security options and Symbol Spectrum24 wireless network software utilities, so that it fits elegantly into a mobile solution set for any industry.

The PPT 8800 is built and tested to withstand multiple drops to concrete at varying temperatures. It is sealed against water and dust, ensuring reliable performance in less than ideal environmental conditions. It also delivers a unique combination of built-in 1D bar code scanning and wireless LAN or Bluetooth communications.