The new Cordless Hand Scanner from Socket Communications combines barcode scanning technology and Bluetooth and is capable of reading damaged, poorly printed, or hard to read barcodes.

The new scanner has the ability to automatically enter scanned data into Windows, Palm or Symbian applications on a Pocket PC, Palm, mobile phone, laptop or desktop up to 300 feet away. It supports all popular bar code symbologies including UPC/EAN/JAN, Code 39, Code 128 and RSS-14 and is 2005 Sunrise Date compliant. The device uses minimal power, so it can be operated for hours without having to recharge batteries. Additionally, a stylus tip built into the device handle allows the scanner to double as a stylus for PDAs and other touch screen devices.

Socket's Cordless Hand Scanner is compatible with Pocket PC 2003 devices and is scheduled for first customer shipments on 25 June 2004, The product will be available for use with Windows XP/XP Tablet, Palm OS v5.0 and later, and Symbian OS devices on 31 August 2004.