Exclusive License Paves Way for Development of a Broad Range of RFID Products For Mobile Computing and Handheld Devices
NEWARK, CA, – January 26, 2004 – Socket Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCKT, PSE: SOK), the Mobile Connection™ Company, today announced an agreement for Socket to license worldwide SkyeTek’s Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology on an exclusive basis for the development of a broad range of products for mobile computing and handheld devices. The arrangement allows for multiple RFID frequency implementations and multi-function capabilities. This includes SkyeTek’s recently announced multi-protocol RFID reader/writer, SkyeRead™ M1-mini, measuring just 1 inch in diameter – the world’s smallest device of its kind. Early technology demonstration and developer products from Socket are expected to be available in the middle of 2004.
“RFID products will be an extension to Socket’s existing bar code scanning business for the AutoID markets,” said Mike Gifford, Socket’s founder and executive vice president. “The new products will broaden our customer base as RFID technology is implemented and gains momentum. We selected SkyeTek’s technology because of its small form-factor, low power consumption, and firmware adaptability.”
“SkyeTek is extremely pleased to partner with Socket for solutions in the mobile and handheld device markets,” said Jonathan Bein, Ph.D., SkyeTek’s president. “Socket is a leading provider of products and solutions for the AutoID markets with worldwide distribution supported by VARs and system integrators. This partnership is positioned to meet a growing demand for RFID and mobile computing.”
About RFID
Radio frequency identification (RFID) first appeared in tracking and access applications during the 1980s. RFID wireless AIDC systems allow for non-contact reading and are effective in manufacturing and other hostile environments where bar code labels can not survive. RFID systems have tags and readers. Tags are microchip based radios with built-in antennas, which already have shrunk to the size of postage stamps. They listen for a radio query from a reader and respond by transmitting their unique ID code. RFID is established in a wide range of markets including retail, healthcare, livestock identification and automated vehicle identification (AVI) systems because of its ability to register and record moving objects.
About Socket
Socket Communications, Inc., the Mobile Connection™ Company, provides the broadest range of connectivity products for Windows Powered computers, focusing on handhelds including Pocket PCs, Windows CE devices, Palm PDAs and mobile phones. Socket’s Mobility Friendly™ products are feature-rich while promoting ease of use and lead the market with the smallest footprint and the most Battery Friendly® power consumption in their class. Socket's Embedded Systems Group provides solutions using mobilityIC™ interface chips, KwikBlue™ modules with embedded Bluetooth wireless technology and a family of bar code scanning products. Socket is headquartered in Newark, California and can be reached at 510-744-2700 or www.socketcom.com.
About SkyeTek, Inc: SkyeTek transforms RFID into networking technology enabling goods and assets to participate in a connected world. SkyeTek develops readers that serve as intelligent edge devices and software that binds policies to tagged items. By extending networks to the physical world, customers increase revenue through their ability to predict demand, prevent counterfeiting, and personalize user interactions. Based in Westminster, Colo., SkyeTek sells exclusively through OEMs, systems integrators, resellers, and distributors. For more information, visit www.skyetek.com or call 720-565-0441.
Tagnostic®, SkyeWare™, SkyeModule™, ReaderDNA™, AURA™, SkyeOS™, SkyeSecurity™, the SkyeTek logo, and SkyeTek® are trademarks
or registered trademarks of SkyeTek, Inc. All other trademarks or brand names are the properties of their respective holders. Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.