Hand Held Products Announces Dolphin Handheld Computer with Image Capture

Business Wire, Oct 30, 1998

CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 30, 1998--Hand Held Products, Inc. announces the introduction of Dolphin (tm) with Image Capture, a new version of the handheld computer that incorporates both laser bar code scanning and industry-leading image capture technology.

Dolphin(tm) with Image Capture combines Dolphin's original ergonomic design with a small CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) camera and bar code scanner, making it the perfect automatic identification tool for package delivery, transportation and logistics applications.

In just seconds, a package delivery worker can scan bar code tracking numbers and capture and store images such as signatures or non-signature authentications like stamps or seals, as required in international markets. The device also is equipped to capture images in total darkness with an internal lighting source and intelligent sensor that activates when there is insufficient lighting.

"Dolphin with Image Capture will allow mobile workers to do their jobs more efficiently than traditional signature-capture devices like touchscreens because the Dolphin does not need to be passed back and forth," said Scott Cardais, president and CEO of Hand Held Products. "We've also used industry-standard technology so that Dolphin with Image Capture is compatible with many image retrieval systems already on the market."

The pocket-size, 14 ounce computer enables single-handed data collection in the right or left hand. Dolphin is one of the most rugged devices available and, is designed to withstand repeated 5-foot drops onto a concrete floor. The display, protected by a polycarbonate "lens," can withstand 60 lbs. of pressure compared to touchscreens now used for signature capture that, typically, can break with 11 lbs. of pressure.

For workers on the move, Image-Capture Dolphin is compatible with VehicleBase(tm) for charging and providing connectivity to serial devices including printers, on-board computers and vehicle monitoring systems. The device is also compatible with Hand Held's HomeBase(tm) desktop charging communication cradle.

Founded in 1982, Hand Held Products manufactures and markets a wide range of portable, computer-based data collection products and easy application development software used in a variety of commercial markets. Hand Held has offices in Europe, Latin America, U.K., and Australia, in addition to the US. More information is available at www.handheld.com, or 1-800-582-4263.