Sunday, July 06, 2003 4:37:34 PM
New Digital Portable Products Focus of e.Digital, Softeq Partnership
2/20/2003 - e.Digital Corporation (OTC: EDIG) and independent systems integrator Softeq Development Corporation have entered into an agreement to partner on the development of new products for the digital audio market. The agreement paves the way for the companies to collaborate on the development of products using e.Digital's patented MicroOSTM technology and applying its expertise in portable product design.
An early customer of the partnership is Hewlett-Packard, who is working with the companies to explore opportunities for future digital audio products.
"This partnership is an example of HP's strategy of working with innovative partners," said Robert Corbett, director for Retail Industry Solutions at HP. "HP believes that doing so will result in the development of exciting new products that provide consumers with simple and rewarding experiences by making technologies work better together. It will also allow retailers to provide a more satisfying environment for their customers, and facilitate better customer service."
e.Digital brings to the partnership broad experience in the design of portable products, proven, patented technologies and success in integrating such sophisticated technologies as infrared communications into portable devices.
"We have developed, enhanced, and integrated several technologies that have resulted in a number of exciting uses for digital audio technology," said Atul Anandpura, vice president of research and development for e.Digital. "Our experience and expertise complements the strong reputation that HP has for putting innovative technology into the hands of the customer."
Research into possible new products is already underway.
---------------------------------------
Please discuss your development plans as they relate to wireless technology.
A: We are incorporating wireless communication modules into our reference designs and expect to see products combining e.Digital technology with wireless features reach the market during 2003. As part of a project announced February 19, 2003, we are working with Softeq Development Corporation to develop and deliver a headset product incorporating a unique infrared interface for OEM customer Hewlett-Packard. In another development, we are working closely with a new OEM to incorporate wireless connectivity (not infrared) for other products and we expect to release more details this spring.
---------------------------------------
TWIRLTM - Two-Way Infrared Link - Embedded firmware for bi-directional data transfer using high-speed infrared.
==========================================
HP Mobilizes Management, Information and Checkout with Wireless Retailing Solutions
Associate Mobility Offerings Help Companies Deliver Customer Service Anywhere in the Store
CHICAGO, Retail Systems 2002, June 26, 2002
Bringing wireless services out of the back room and into the storefront, HP (NYSE: HPQ) has launched a suite of wireless solutions specifically designed for retailing operations. Announced here at the retailing industry's premier technology exposition, HP's Associate Mobility solutions enable managers and employees to perform a wide variety of activities and transactions vital to retail sales and customer service operations.
"HP is continually taking mobility into new frontiers with our unsurpassed range of services, products and partners," said Jim Milton, managing director, HP Americas, and senior vice president, HP Enterprise Systems Group. "Retailers have been at the forefront of wireless applications for inventory control and management, but bringing this kind of 'smart mobility' to store managers and associates will help retailers bring customer service to a new level."
The HP Associate Mobility solutions operate on an IT backbone of industry-standard HP ProLiant servers and Evo desktop PCs, which wirelessly bridge via local area network or wide area network storewide and system-wide information systems and applications operated on HP iPAQ Pocket PCs in an associate's hand. The solutions are based on Windows® operating systems to support a broad variety of in-store applications.
To suit each retailing customer's unique business needs, HP will design or adapt a variety of applications, including:
"Queue busting" mobile checkout capabilities, incorporating point-of-sale (POS) functions and credit card/signature capture;
Fully mobile access for managers to their email, customer and merchandising information applications, providing them constant contact with their support systems even as they circulate in their store to work with employees and customers;
Wireless alerts to management or associates, such as inventory level and reorder or backorder status, or fraudulent credit card notification that will instantly signal a manager via their iPAQ Pocket PC when and where a suspicious card is presented; and
e-Learning, for training that helps store associates access and learn pricing, product information, store practices and checkout procedures, among many options.
"HP has built the Associate Mobility solutions to meet needs we've heard directly from leading retailers, all adding up to a wish for greater, more immediate customer care and ways to keep an interested customer engaged," said Robert Corbett, director, HP Retailing Solutions. "If the customer's satisfied with the quality and timeliness of service and information they receive, the store will make the sale."
About HP
HP is a leading global provider of products, technologies, solutions and services to consumers and businesses. The company's offerings span IT infrastructure, personal computing and access devices, global services and imaging and printing. HP completed its merger transaction involving Compaq Computer Corp. on May 3, 2002. The company would have had combined revenue on a pro forma basis giving effect to the Compaq transaction of approximately $81.1 billion in fiscal 2001 and operations in more than 160 countries. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com.
================================
http://h18000.www1.hp.com/retail/
http://h18004.www1.hp.com/retail/news/05062003.html.
===============================
Softeq Projects 2003
MP3 Headset
Softeq has partnered with HP and e.Digital to design, develop, and deliver an MP3 player headset with a unique IR interface. Softeq is responsible for beginning-to-end design, specification, development, and delivery. A multi-unit battery charger is also in development.
Read the press release
iPAQ Developer Program
Softeq has been selected to manage and administer the HP iPAQ Developer Program, and is acting as the system integrator between HP, the website developer, and the support portal. Softeq is responsible for day-to-day support, website management, loaner programs, and administration.
---------------------------------
------------------------------------
The Infrared Data Association Announces MP3 Special Interest Group
Walnut Creek, California . . . January 20, 2000. . . The Infrared Data Association
(IrDA) has formed a Special Interest Group to produce a standard for inter-appliance
MP3 data exchange using IrDA's infrared technology. "Infrared data ports are the
smallest, lowest power, highest bandwidth, lowest cost ports available today" said
Lawrence Faulkner, IrDA's Executive Director. "Most of the notebook computers, Palm
Computing products and WinCE devices have IR ports. Every major mobile phone brand
has at least one IR-enabled handset and coming this fall wristwatches will begin to
incorporate IrDA data ports."
The rapid deployment of MP3 capable appliances begs for a standard connection between
the MP3 players, computers and the network. "This technology (MP3) will take an even
stronger hold when you can easily move music from device to device without a cable or
docking port. The handheld player should be able to transfer a song into your car stereo
or your home entertainment system," Faulkner said. The MP3 SIG will help coordinate
the process of identifying concerns specific to transferring MP3 data and building
solutions into the protocol. For example, we may need a standard way of identifying
copyrighted content and describing distribution restrictions to handle the MP3 content
appropriately."
IrDA's SIG will use its recently approved "Point and Shoot" Application Profile as a
starting point for the MP3 file transfer. Naming conventions and application specific
meta-data will be defined to serve the special needs of the MP3 Player industry.
Participation in the SIG is open to all IrDA member companies.
For more information contact Lawrence Faulkner via e-mail at lawrence@irda.org or by
telephone at (925) 944-2930.
------------------------------------
The Infrared Data Association (IrDA®) Announces the Release of Infrared Financial Messaging (IrFM™) "Point & Pay" Specification Version 1.0
Walnut Creek, CA., January 8, 2003 - A three year effort to develop a global, wireless, proximity payment standard, that enables a true electronic payment application, culminated with the General Membership and Board of Director's approval at the end of December, 2002. Infrared is the ideal technology for transmitting confidential wireless payment information, utilizing cell phones and PDA's (beaming between card readers, ATMs, kiosks, gas pumps, turnstiles and toll booths) due to its low cost, superior security, and one-to-one, short-range, very high speed directional connection.
The IrFM™ specification utilizes existing financial services infrastructures to process wireless payment transactions (credit cards, debit and smart cards, checks and loyalty programs) at the point of sale. The Financial Services Technology Consortium (FSTC) established a working relationship with the IrFM Work Group early in the development of the specification.
IrDA Executive Director Ron Brown stated, "the principle use cases developed by the work groups were proven through a massive commercial implementation effort led by Harex InfoTech in South Korea during the past 9 months." The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) in Korea revealed on December 24, 2002 that Korea will require compliance with IrFM v1.0 for that country's wireless payment standardization effort. Brown also said, "additional implementations and trials have been announced for 2003 in Japan, Europe and the U.S."
IrDA will officially introduce its IrFM Specification at The Association for Retail Technology Standards (ARTS) booth at the National Retail Federation (NRF) Show in New York City from January 13 through 15. The Digital Receipt specification developed by ARTS is the receipt of choice for use with IrFM. The IrFM Specification is now available to the general public and can be obtained from the IrDA website at no charge.
About IrDA
IrDA (www.irda.org) is an International Organization formed in 1993 and is dedicated to creating global, interoperable, low-cost infrared technology specification standards. The standards support a broad range of computing and communications devices. During the past 4 years an estimated 200+ million IrDA enabled cell phones and PDA's have been shipped throughout the world. For more information about an IrDA Market Report, or IrFM contact Ron Brown, Executive Director of IrDA at (925) 944-2930, email: ron@irda.org.
About Harex InfoTech
Harex InfoTech, Inc.(http://www.mzoop.com) is the originator of the ZOOPä Universal Mobile Payment Service (UMPS) based on infrared technology and is uniquely positioned as the world leader in implementing UMPS services for mobile phones.
CONTACT:
Ron Brown, Executive Director
(925) 944-2930, email: ron@irda.org
Mike Watson, IrDA Board President
(408) 799-5829, email:mwatson@mZOOP.com
==========================================
hp completes its offerings for retailers with
introduction of hp rp5000 point-of-sale device
HP rp5000 designed to meet the unique demands of retailers.
CHICAGO, RETAIL SYSTEMS 2003, JUNE 9, 2003 - HP (NYSE:HPQ) today unveiled the HP rp5000 point-of-sale (POS) device that brings HP technology from the back office onto the retail floor, completing the company's full line of offerings for retailers.
The HP rp5000 POS is an open-standards based platform that has been customized to withstand the rigors of the retail environment with enhanced peripheral support via powered serial and USB ports, enhanced power and cooling capabilities, as well as components that combine the functionality of popular proprietary systems with the low price and flexibility of PC-based POS systems.
"The rp5000 brings together the best traits of the PC with those of a high-quality, reliable POS system," said Leigh Morrison, vice president, retail sales and solutions, HP Enterprise Systems Group. "This device is truly the future of transaction management at the point of sale."
The introduction of the rp5000 is an example how HP is implementing its recently announced Adaptive Enterprise strategy to improve the ability of customers to respond to and capitalize on change, as well as their return on investment in IT.
Expected to be available by end of summer, the system's long, five-year lifecycle and industry-standard PC-based architecture make it easy for retailers to gradually transition from more expensive, proprietary POS systems. The combination of increased flexibility, manageability and low purchase price significantly reduces total cost of technology ownership for retail customers.
"The rp5000 is adaptable, cost-effective to acquire and operate, and able to power a broad range of applications," said Robert Corbett, director, retail industry solutions, HP Enterprise Systems Group. "It is made for forward-thinking retailers who want to have all the features of the very latest POS offerings, but who are keen to buy this at a PC-POS price.
The HP rp5000 POS device features four powered serial ports, four powered USB 2.0 ports, two standard USB 2.0 ports and two full height PCI slots for maximum connectivity to today's most common POS peripherals and tomorrow's high-speed USB 2.0 devices.
The configurable rp5000 incorporates embedded technology from Intel, including the Intel® Pentium® 4 processor with the 845GV chipset, and a choice of Microsoft Windows 2000, Microsoft Windows XP Embedded or Microsoft XP Professional operating systems.
"The HP POS solution is an ideal platform for the development and deployment of retail-specific applications," said Brian Scott, general manager, retail and hospitality industry solutions group, Microsoft Corp. "HP's rp5000, powered by Windows XP Embedded, offers retailers a rich set of retail-oriented features, including remote boot functionality, a Device Update Agent to aid in deployment and management, dual-display support, enterprise-class connectivity, and an extended support lifecycle to meet the needs of retailers."
"HP's new Intel Pentium 4 processor-based POS system, the rp5000, will offer retailers the ability to transform their store environments to better manage their business and improve customers shopping experience," said Tom Gibbs, director of industry marketing, software market development group, Intel. "We're delighted to be working with HP to help retailers take advantage of Intel open-standards based technology to build flexible, high-performance solutions to improve the customers' experience in the store, reduce operating cost and improve inventory management processes. "
The device is designed to maximize space in constrained work areas, such as check-out areas, by allowing retailers to position it on the cash wrap or mounted vertically or horizontally under the cash wrap. It is also designed for easy serviceability with single latch entry into the unit, tool-less drive and motherboard removal, and rotating drive cage. Color-coded cables make set up easy, as well.
In addition to the new rp5000, HP offers other in-store technologies such as wireless networking, kiosks, printing, imaging and messaging solutions, as well as store-to-headquarters infrastructure. It also offers the services expertise to link these systems into a dynamic extended retail enterprise with solutions for Right-Now-Retailing such as: ZLE, eCRM, payment systems, financials, merchandising, and supply chain and remote store management.
HP Services also can customize comprehensive solutions or integrate new clients into a retailer's legacy system to extend their useful life.
about hp
HP delivers vital technology for business and life. The company's solutions span IT infrastructure, personal computing and access devices, global services and imaging and printing for consumers, enterprises and small and medium business. For the last four quarters, HP revenue totaled $70.4 billion. More information about HP is available at www.hp.com.
-----------------------------------------
PC Based Cash Registers or POS
PT-4000 Integrated Touch Screen Terminal PT-3000 Integrated Touch Screen Terminal
IT-2000 Flat LCD Touch Screen Terminal or PC Micro Plus Additional or Kitchen Display System
PT-4000 Integrated
Touch Screen Terminal
The CRS touch screen POS terminal is designed to simplify system integration with more functionality, performance, durability and reliability. With its expansion capabilities, connection with peripherals can be maximized. The POS Touch Screen can work in stand alone or network operation. it's dirt and spill resistant design provides reliable operation even in rough environments.
Intel Celeron 566-700 MHz+ or Pentium III 566-750 MHz+ Processor.
64MB up to 512 MG memory.
12.1" color TFT active matrix dual back-lit LCD.
Tilt and touch screen maximum 40°
Optional card reader.
Optional adjustable rear display.
CRS Part No. PT-4000
Options:
705002 PT-4000 Bar Code Reader
705003 PT-4000 Rear Display
705004 PT-4000 Pole Display
705007 PT-4000 External CD ROM
705008 PT-4000 Wireless Keyboard
705009 PT-4000 Slimline CD ROM
705010 PT-4000 Slimline Floppy Drive
705011 PT-4000 WKB EPROM
705012 Memory 32 Mg 168 PIN DIMM
705013 Memory 64 Mg 168 PIN DIMM
705015 Processor 233 MHz MMX
703007 Windows 98 Second Edition
Windows 98 includes license, manual and CD ROM
The PT-4000 Integrated Touch Screen Terminal is a complete self contained terminal designed to simplify system integration with more
functionality, performance, durability and reliability. With its expansion capabilities, connection with peripherals can be maximized. The PT-4000 Integrated Touch Screen Terminal can work in stand alone or network operation. It's dirt and spill resistant design provides reliable operation even in harsh environments.
SPECIFICATIONS
Processor: Intel Celeron 566-700 MHz+ or PIII 566-750 MHz+
Memory: 64 Mb SDRAM Standard, Expandable to 512 Mb
Flash Memory: DiskOnChip expandable to 288 MB, shares with SSD (optional)
Hard Drive: 3.5" IDE or 2.5" Internal
Display LCD: 12.1", Color, TFT Active Matrix Dual Back-Lit LCD
Resolution: 800 x 600
Touch Panel: 5 Wire Resistive or Capacitive
Dual Display: Dual Independent Video Output
LED Status Ind.: 5 LED for Power, Hard Drive, Keyboard Status I/O Interfaces: 4 RS-232C Ports, 3 External with D9 Pin Connector
Standard with +5V and +12V
1 Parallel Port Standard
1 Ethernet, 10/100 BASE-T with Boot ROM Standard
1 PS/2 Keyboard Port Standard
1 PS/2 Mouse Port Standard
1 SVGA Standard (CRT Support to 1024 x 768)
1 External Floppy Connector Standard
2 Cash Drawer Ports (24V) Standard
4 USB Ports Standard
1 Audio Out
Power Supply: AC 115/230 External Adapter Standard
Power Consumption: 5V/10A, 24V/3A, 12V/2A, 150W
Operating System: DOS, Windows, Windows NT, OS/2, Unix, Netware, Linux
Dimensions: 12.8"W x 13.4"H x 12.4"D
Weight: Net Weight 15.9 lbs.; Gross Weight 28.s lbs.
Safety and EMI: UL, CUL, FCC, CE, VCCI Classs A
FEATURES
DUAL BACK-LIT LCD Display
Tilt Angle Touch Screen Maximum 40°
OPTIONS
Magnetic Card Reader, Track 1 & 2 or Track 1, 2, & 3
Bar Code Card Reader
Adjustable Two-Line Rear Display
Two Line Pole Display
PCMCIA Interface
External Floppy Disk Drive
External CD ROM
Remote Wireless Keyboard
Disk on Chip
APPLICATIONS
POS Hospitality PC/Workstations
Financial/Banking Retail Scanning Hotel Front Desk
Medical Kiosks
Optional Customer Display
Optional MSR and Pole Display
Tilt Angle Maximum 40°
Easy Access Cable Management
PT-4000 touch screen terminal shown with optional magnetic card reader.
POS software not included.
-----------------------------------------
iPAQ Developer Program
printable version
» iPAQ Developer
Program
The new iPAQ Developer Program is designed to enable you to produce, promote and bring to market your solution for the iPAQ Pocket PC. This program assists iPAQ Developers over the entire product life cycle from concept to end-of-life by providing tools and services to enable you to design and manufacture iPAQ applications and solutions quickly and efficiently. In addition, the program has a variety of new opportunities that facilitate product certification and distribution and drive customer awareness.
In just a few minutes you can be registered and exploring the new iPAQ Developer's site. From the all-new Developer support portal to marketing guidelines and new certification and co-marketing programs, we're confident you'll be able to find something to help you.
===============================
http://www.executivetechnology.com/images/pdf/retalixpdf.pdf
In moving from proprietary to open systems,
retailers have numerous paths to choose from.
For most retailers, an immediate "rip and
replace" strategy is not practical. Instead, some
retailers use the freedom offered by open systems
to expand their choices in the hardware
area, selecting non-proprietary POS terminals,
state-of-the-art peripherals and in-store devices.
Others replace in-store controllers first, while
others see a need to move file systems from
proprietary to open systems.
The combination of Microsoft, Hewlett-
Packard and Retalix offers supermarkets a number
of tools for the migration path that's right for
them. HP offers a wide range of hardware
designed for an open, standards-based retail
environment. These include mobility devices
such as Tablet PCs and handheld iPAQ devices
as well as in-store kiosks, for use by both customers
and store associates. HP also offers POS
terminal hardware as well as printers for any
kind of retail application.
HP's ProLiant servers running Windows are
already installed in numerous retail locations.
"Many retailers choose the ProLiant as they are
moving from their proprietary in-store systems
to an open architecture in their stores," said
Robert Corbett, Director, Retail Industry
Marketing at HP. "They are designed to support
not only the store's POS systems but other
crucial applications such as merchandising,
labor management and customer relationship
management."
Multiple Migration Tools Available
Microsoft and the companies it partners with recognize that supermarkets
need to leverage their existing investment in information technology.
They need to migrate to open, standards-based solutions at a pace that
makes sense for their business needs--and in the areas that will give
them the fastest, and biggest, return on investment.
One of the most visible benefits
of moving to open systems is
easier support for mobility solutions.
For the retail environment,
Hewlett-Packard's iPAQ comes
equipped with a scanner and
credit card reader, and is able to
communicate wirelessly to the
in-store server.
===================================
Multi-Purpose Mobile Solutions
Create Shopper Satisfaction
Because of the high-volume, fast-paced nature of supermarket retailing, these companies are
often intently focused on the basics of customer service: keeping shelves stocked, ensuring
prices are accurate and maintaining fast throughput at the checkout. But as they move to
open, standards-based information technology solutions, supermarkets are discovering they
have the capacity to expand their range of offerings, significantly enhancing their customers'
experience in the store.
............................
The Mobility Movement
With the solid foundation of the Windows XP
Embedded operating system in place, retailers can
focus on a wide range of in-store improvements.
One of the most important ways supermarkets can
enrich the shopping experience is to take advantage
of mobility solutions in the store environment.
"When managers are freed from their desks
in the back office, they can get a better sense of
what's needed to make their stores run more
efficiently and to make customers happy," said
Robert Corbett, Director of Retail Industry
Marketing at Hewlett-Packard. "When store associates
can get easier access to information,
either from kiosks located throughout the store
or from handheld wireless devices, they can offer
information on pricing, products and promotions
when and where the customer needs it."
HP provides a wide range of mobility devices,
including tablet PCs and handheld iPAQs that run
on Microsoft Windows-based operating systems.
These devices can take advantage of retailers'
existing wireless in-store architectures. In addition,
"The flexibility of open systems allows retailers
to add new functions to their existing mobile
and handheld wireless devices, allowing them to
improve customer service while leveraging their
information technology investment and lowering
their total cost of ownership," said Corbett.
Store managers using an iPAQ as a portable
terminal can gain access to numerous backoffice
and communication applications while on
the move, including customer relationship management
databases, sales associate databases,
product, pricing, promotion, merchandising and
inventory information. They can also gain mobile
access to their e-mail via Pocket Outlook, as well
as web access via Internet Explorer.
"The iPAQ becomes not simply an extension of
what's available on the manager's desktop but a
completely portable productivity tool," said Corbett.
The Retalix PocketOffice application is another
simple way for retailers to gain additional usage
from their investment in mobile handheld technology.
"PocketOffice, based on Windows CE, is really
another ‘terminal' for accessing traditional backoffice
and front-office application functions," said
Jeff Yelton, CEO of Retalix. "Because of the tight
integration that the Windows platform provides,
PocketOffice can receive vendor orders through
the back office system, and also provide queuebuster
functionality through the POS system.
Windows CE provides the common platform to
allow multiple mobile applications to reside on a
single device. And the GUI user interface is consistent,
which greatly reduces training time. The
retailer's information technology department isn't
re-learning the whole application development
standards or database--it all just plugs right in."
Managers can also be better informed about
key operational issues within their stores, such
as ensuring that checkout lanes are adequately
staffed when a promotion is about to begin. In
addition, exception-based reporting alerts can let
them know when stock levels on key items are
reaching dangerously low levels.
Mobility solutions for store associates can
also be an important element in the customer
service equation, especially when the handheld
devices they use give them deeper information
about the products and services the supermarket
offers. With the tens of thousands of SKUs carried
by the typical grocery retailer, providing associates
with access to this data while they are in
the store aisles can not only address customer
service queries but can lead to upselling and
cross-selling of related items. For example, a customer
inquiring about gourmet pasta could be
directed to a "store-within-a-store" selling all the
makings of an Italian meal, including sauces,
breads and wines.
Conversely, if store associates have to go off
the store floor to check on prices or product
availability, time-pressed customers can get a
negative impression of the store's offerings and
its customer service capabilities.
"Mobility solutions allow store associates to
be productive for the entire time they are working,"
said HP's Corbett. "And by giving these
associates an increased ability to do their jobs
more effectively, the retailer is likely to see benefits
in the form of improved employee loyalty and
retention of their top-performing people."
It's even possible to make mobility solutions
part of the customer's own shopping experience.
HP's capabilities include being part of a cartmounted
mobility device equipped with RFID
technology that would be activated with a customer's
loyalty program card. When the cartmounted
device is activated with a particular
customer's card, the store manager would be
made aware that this customer is in the store. If
the customer is a high-spending, valued shopper,
the store manager could greet the customer by
name and offer him or her special promotions,
based on the customer's spending level, past
purchase history, or a combination of factors.
The ability to track this customer's movement
throughout the store opens up new opportunities
for customer service and improved sales, especially
in the higher-margin "perimeter" departments
such as meat, seafood, deli, floral and bakery.
deployed in StoreNext is the same application
infrastructure we're selling to the larger retailers
on an enterprise basis," said Yelton, adding that
120 U.S. supermarket stores are already connected
to StoreNext Retail Technologies USA.
2/20/2003 - e.Digital Corporation (OTC: EDIG) and independent systems integrator Softeq Development Corporation have entered into an agreement to partner on the development of new products for the digital audio market. The agreement paves the way for the companies to collaborate on the development of products using e.Digital's patented MicroOSTM technology and applying its expertise in portable product design.
An early customer of the partnership is Hewlett-Packard, who is working with the companies to explore opportunities for future digital audio products.
"This partnership is an example of HP's strategy of working with innovative partners," said Robert Corbett, director for Retail Industry Solutions at HP. "HP believes that doing so will result in the development of exciting new products that provide consumers with simple and rewarding experiences by making technologies work better together. It will also allow retailers to provide a more satisfying environment for their customers, and facilitate better customer service."
e.Digital brings to the partnership broad experience in the design of portable products, proven, patented technologies and success in integrating such sophisticated technologies as infrared communications into portable devices.
"We have developed, enhanced, and integrated several technologies that have resulted in a number of exciting uses for digital audio technology," said Atul Anandpura, vice president of research and development for e.Digital. "Our experience and expertise complements the strong reputation that HP has for putting innovative technology into the hands of the customer."
Research into possible new products is already underway.
---------------------------------------
Please discuss your development plans as they relate to wireless technology.
A: We are incorporating wireless communication modules into our reference designs and expect to see products combining e.Digital technology with wireless features reach the market during 2003. As part of a project announced February 19, 2003, we are working with Softeq Development Corporation to develop and deliver a headset product incorporating a unique infrared interface for OEM customer Hewlett-Packard. In another development, we are working closely with a new OEM to incorporate wireless connectivity (not infrared) for other products and we expect to release more details this spring.
---------------------------------------
TWIRLTM - Two-Way Infrared Link - Embedded firmware for bi-directional data transfer using high-speed infrared.
==========================================
HP Mobilizes Management, Information and Checkout with Wireless Retailing Solutions
Associate Mobility Offerings Help Companies Deliver Customer Service Anywhere in the Store
CHICAGO, Retail Systems 2002, June 26, 2002
Bringing wireless services out of the back room and into the storefront, HP (NYSE: HPQ) has launched a suite of wireless solutions specifically designed for retailing operations. Announced here at the retailing industry's premier technology exposition, HP's Associate Mobility solutions enable managers and employees to perform a wide variety of activities and transactions vital to retail sales and customer service operations.
"HP is continually taking mobility into new frontiers with our unsurpassed range of services, products and partners," said Jim Milton, managing director, HP Americas, and senior vice president, HP Enterprise Systems Group. "Retailers have been at the forefront of wireless applications for inventory control and management, but bringing this kind of 'smart mobility' to store managers and associates will help retailers bring customer service to a new level."
The HP Associate Mobility solutions operate on an IT backbone of industry-standard HP ProLiant servers and Evo desktop PCs, which wirelessly bridge via local area network or wide area network storewide and system-wide information systems and applications operated on HP iPAQ Pocket PCs in an associate's hand. The solutions are based on Windows® operating systems to support a broad variety of in-store applications.
To suit each retailing customer's unique business needs, HP will design or adapt a variety of applications, including:
"Queue busting" mobile checkout capabilities, incorporating point-of-sale (POS) functions and credit card/signature capture;
Fully mobile access for managers to their email, customer and merchandising information applications, providing them constant contact with their support systems even as they circulate in their store to work with employees and customers;
Wireless alerts to management or associates, such as inventory level and reorder or backorder status, or fraudulent credit card notification that will instantly signal a manager via their iPAQ Pocket PC when and where a suspicious card is presented; and
e-Learning, for training that helps store associates access and learn pricing, product information, store practices and checkout procedures, among many options.
"HP has built the Associate Mobility solutions to meet needs we've heard directly from leading retailers, all adding up to a wish for greater, more immediate customer care and ways to keep an interested customer engaged," said Robert Corbett, director, HP Retailing Solutions. "If the customer's satisfied with the quality and timeliness of service and information they receive, the store will make the sale."
About HP
HP is a leading global provider of products, technologies, solutions and services to consumers and businesses. The company's offerings span IT infrastructure, personal computing and access devices, global services and imaging and printing. HP completed its merger transaction involving Compaq Computer Corp. on May 3, 2002. The company would have had combined revenue on a pro forma basis giving effect to the Compaq transaction of approximately $81.1 billion in fiscal 2001 and operations in more than 160 countries. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com.
================================
http://h18000.www1.hp.com/retail/
http://h18004.www1.hp.com/retail/news/05062003.html.
===============================
Softeq Projects 2003
MP3 Headset
Softeq has partnered with HP and e.Digital to design, develop, and deliver an MP3 player headset with a unique IR interface. Softeq is responsible for beginning-to-end design, specification, development, and delivery. A multi-unit battery charger is also in development.
Read the press release
iPAQ Developer Program
Softeq has been selected to manage and administer the HP iPAQ Developer Program, and is acting as the system integrator between HP, the website developer, and the support portal. Softeq is responsible for day-to-day support, website management, loaner programs, and administration.
---------------------------------
------------------------------------
The Infrared Data Association Announces MP3 Special Interest Group
Walnut Creek, California . . . January 20, 2000. . . The Infrared Data Association
(IrDA) has formed a Special Interest Group to produce a standard for inter-appliance
MP3 data exchange using IrDA's infrared technology. "Infrared data ports are the
smallest, lowest power, highest bandwidth, lowest cost ports available today" said
Lawrence Faulkner, IrDA's Executive Director. "Most of the notebook computers, Palm
Computing products and WinCE devices have IR ports. Every major mobile phone brand
has at least one IR-enabled handset and coming this fall wristwatches will begin to
incorporate IrDA data ports."
The rapid deployment of MP3 capable appliances begs for a standard connection between
the MP3 players, computers and the network. "This technology (MP3) will take an even
stronger hold when you can easily move music from device to device without a cable or
docking port. The handheld player should be able to transfer a song into your car stereo
or your home entertainment system," Faulkner said. The MP3 SIG will help coordinate
the process of identifying concerns specific to transferring MP3 data and building
solutions into the protocol. For example, we may need a standard way of identifying
copyrighted content and describing distribution restrictions to handle the MP3 content
appropriately."
IrDA's SIG will use its recently approved "Point and Shoot" Application Profile as a
starting point for the MP3 file transfer. Naming conventions and application specific
meta-data will be defined to serve the special needs of the MP3 Player industry.
Participation in the SIG is open to all IrDA member companies.
For more information contact Lawrence Faulkner via e-mail at lawrence@irda.org or by
telephone at (925) 944-2930.
------------------------------------
The Infrared Data Association (IrDA®) Announces the Release of Infrared Financial Messaging (IrFM™) "Point & Pay" Specification Version 1.0
Walnut Creek, CA., January 8, 2003 - A three year effort to develop a global, wireless, proximity payment standard, that enables a true electronic payment application, culminated with the General Membership and Board of Director's approval at the end of December, 2002. Infrared is the ideal technology for transmitting confidential wireless payment information, utilizing cell phones and PDA's (beaming between card readers, ATMs, kiosks, gas pumps, turnstiles and toll booths) due to its low cost, superior security, and one-to-one, short-range, very high speed directional connection.
The IrFM™ specification utilizes existing financial services infrastructures to process wireless payment transactions (credit cards, debit and smart cards, checks and loyalty programs) at the point of sale. The Financial Services Technology Consortium (FSTC) established a working relationship with the IrFM Work Group early in the development of the specification.
IrDA Executive Director Ron Brown stated, "the principle use cases developed by the work groups were proven through a massive commercial implementation effort led by Harex InfoTech in South Korea during the past 9 months." The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) in Korea revealed on December 24, 2002 that Korea will require compliance with IrFM v1.0 for that country's wireless payment standardization effort. Brown also said, "additional implementations and trials have been announced for 2003 in Japan, Europe and the U.S."
IrDA will officially introduce its IrFM Specification at The Association for Retail Technology Standards (ARTS) booth at the National Retail Federation (NRF) Show in New York City from January 13 through 15. The Digital Receipt specification developed by ARTS is the receipt of choice for use with IrFM. The IrFM Specification is now available to the general public and can be obtained from the IrDA website at no charge.
About IrDA
IrDA (www.irda.org) is an International Organization formed in 1993 and is dedicated to creating global, interoperable, low-cost infrared technology specification standards. The standards support a broad range of computing and communications devices. During the past 4 years an estimated 200+ million IrDA enabled cell phones and PDA's have been shipped throughout the world. For more information about an IrDA Market Report, or IrFM contact Ron Brown, Executive Director of IrDA at (925) 944-2930, email: ron@irda.org.
About Harex InfoTech
Harex InfoTech, Inc.(http://www.mzoop.com) is the originator of the ZOOPä Universal Mobile Payment Service (UMPS) based on infrared technology and is uniquely positioned as the world leader in implementing UMPS services for mobile phones.
CONTACT:
Ron Brown, Executive Director
(925) 944-2930, email: ron@irda.org
Mike Watson, IrDA Board President
(408) 799-5829, email:mwatson@mZOOP.com
==========================================
hp completes its offerings for retailers with
introduction of hp rp5000 point-of-sale device
HP rp5000 designed to meet the unique demands of retailers.
CHICAGO, RETAIL SYSTEMS 2003, JUNE 9, 2003 - HP (NYSE:HPQ) today unveiled the HP rp5000 point-of-sale (POS) device that brings HP technology from the back office onto the retail floor, completing the company's full line of offerings for retailers.
The HP rp5000 POS is an open-standards based platform that has been customized to withstand the rigors of the retail environment with enhanced peripheral support via powered serial and USB ports, enhanced power and cooling capabilities, as well as components that combine the functionality of popular proprietary systems with the low price and flexibility of PC-based POS systems.
"The rp5000 brings together the best traits of the PC with those of a high-quality, reliable POS system," said Leigh Morrison, vice president, retail sales and solutions, HP Enterprise Systems Group. "This device is truly the future of transaction management at the point of sale."
The introduction of the rp5000 is an example how HP is implementing its recently announced Adaptive Enterprise strategy to improve the ability of customers to respond to and capitalize on change, as well as their return on investment in IT.
Expected to be available by end of summer, the system's long, five-year lifecycle and industry-standard PC-based architecture make it easy for retailers to gradually transition from more expensive, proprietary POS systems. The combination of increased flexibility, manageability and low purchase price significantly reduces total cost of technology ownership for retail customers.
"The rp5000 is adaptable, cost-effective to acquire and operate, and able to power a broad range of applications," said Robert Corbett, director, retail industry solutions, HP Enterprise Systems Group. "It is made for forward-thinking retailers who want to have all the features of the very latest POS offerings, but who are keen to buy this at a PC-POS price.
The HP rp5000 POS device features four powered serial ports, four powered USB 2.0 ports, two standard USB 2.0 ports and two full height PCI slots for maximum connectivity to today's most common POS peripherals and tomorrow's high-speed USB 2.0 devices.
The configurable rp5000 incorporates embedded technology from Intel, including the Intel® Pentium® 4 processor with the 845GV chipset, and a choice of Microsoft Windows 2000, Microsoft Windows XP Embedded or Microsoft XP Professional operating systems.
"The HP POS solution is an ideal platform for the development and deployment of retail-specific applications," said Brian Scott, general manager, retail and hospitality industry solutions group, Microsoft Corp. "HP's rp5000, powered by Windows XP Embedded, offers retailers a rich set of retail-oriented features, including remote boot functionality, a Device Update Agent to aid in deployment and management, dual-display support, enterprise-class connectivity, and an extended support lifecycle to meet the needs of retailers."
"HP's new Intel Pentium 4 processor-based POS system, the rp5000, will offer retailers the ability to transform their store environments to better manage their business and improve customers shopping experience," said Tom Gibbs, director of industry marketing, software market development group, Intel. "We're delighted to be working with HP to help retailers take advantage of Intel open-standards based technology to build flexible, high-performance solutions to improve the customers' experience in the store, reduce operating cost and improve inventory management processes. "
The device is designed to maximize space in constrained work areas, such as check-out areas, by allowing retailers to position it on the cash wrap or mounted vertically or horizontally under the cash wrap. It is also designed for easy serviceability with single latch entry into the unit, tool-less drive and motherboard removal, and rotating drive cage. Color-coded cables make set up easy, as well.
In addition to the new rp5000, HP offers other in-store technologies such as wireless networking, kiosks, printing, imaging and messaging solutions, as well as store-to-headquarters infrastructure. It also offers the services expertise to link these systems into a dynamic extended retail enterprise with solutions for Right-Now-Retailing such as: ZLE, eCRM, payment systems, financials, merchandising, and supply chain and remote store management.
HP Services also can customize comprehensive solutions or integrate new clients into a retailer's legacy system to extend their useful life.
about hp
HP delivers vital technology for business and life. The company's solutions span IT infrastructure, personal computing and access devices, global services and imaging and printing for consumers, enterprises and small and medium business. For the last four quarters, HP revenue totaled $70.4 billion. More information about HP is available at www.hp.com.
-----------------------------------------
PC Based Cash Registers or POS
PT-4000 Integrated Touch Screen Terminal PT-3000 Integrated Touch Screen Terminal
IT-2000 Flat LCD Touch Screen Terminal or PC Micro Plus Additional or Kitchen Display System
PT-4000 Integrated
Touch Screen Terminal
The CRS touch screen POS terminal is designed to simplify system integration with more functionality, performance, durability and reliability. With its expansion capabilities, connection with peripherals can be maximized. The POS Touch Screen can work in stand alone or network operation. it's dirt and spill resistant design provides reliable operation even in rough environments.
Intel Celeron 566-700 MHz+ or Pentium III 566-750 MHz+ Processor.
64MB up to 512 MG memory.
12.1" color TFT active matrix dual back-lit LCD.
Tilt and touch screen maximum 40°
Optional card reader.
Optional adjustable rear display.
CRS Part No. PT-4000
Options:
705002 PT-4000 Bar Code Reader
705003 PT-4000 Rear Display
705004 PT-4000 Pole Display
705007 PT-4000 External CD ROM
705008 PT-4000 Wireless Keyboard
705009 PT-4000 Slimline CD ROM
705010 PT-4000 Slimline Floppy Drive
705011 PT-4000 WKB EPROM
705012 Memory 32 Mg 168 PIN DIMM
705013 Memory 64 Mg 168 PIN DIMM
705015 Processor 233 MHz MMX
703007 Windows 98 Second Edition
Windows 98 includes license, manual and CD ROM
The PT-4000 Integrated Touch Screen Terminal is a complete self contained terminal designed to simplify system integration with more
functionality, performance, durability and reliability. With its expansion capabilities, connection with peripherals can be maximized. The PT-4000 Integrated Touch Screen Terminal can work in stand alone or network operation. It's dirt and spill resistant design provides reliable operation even in harsh environments.
SPECIFICATIONS
Processor: Intel Celeron 566-700 MHz+ or PIII 566-750 MHz+
Memory: 64 Mb SDRAM Standard, Expandable to 512 Mb
Flash Memory: DiskOnChip expandable to 288 MB, shares with SSD (optional)
Hard Drive: 3.5" IDE or 2.5" Internal
Display LCD: 12.1", Color, TFT Active Matrix Dual Back-Lit LCD
Resolution: 800 x 600
Touch Panel: 5 Wire Resistive or Capacitive
Dual Display: Dual Independent Video Output
LED Status Ind.: 5 LED for Power, Hard Drive, Keyboard Status I/O Interfaces: 4 RS-232C Ports, 3 External with D9 Pin Connector
Standard with +5V and +12V
1 Parallel Port Standard
1 Ethernet, 10/100 BASE-T with Boot ROM Standard
1 PS/2 Keyboard Port Standard
1 PS/2 Mouse Port Standard
1 SVGA Standard (CRT Support to 1024 x 768)
1 External Floppy Connector Standard
2 Cash Drawer Ports (24V) Standard
4 USB Ports Standard
1 Audio Out
Power Supply: AC 115/230 External Adapter Standard
Power Consumption: 5V/10A, 24V/3A, 12V/2A, 150W
Operating System: DOS, Windows, Windows NT, OS/2, Unix, Netware, Linux
Dimensions: 12.8"W x 13.4"H x 12.4"D
Weight: Net Weight 15.9 lbs.; Gross Weight 28.s lbs.
Safety and EMI: UL, CUL, FCC, CE, VCCI Classs A
FEATURES
DUAL BACK-LIT LCD Display
Tilt Angle Touch Screen Maximum 40°
OPTIONS
Magnetic Card Reader, Track 1 & 2 or Track 1, 2, & 3
Bar Code Card Reader
Adjustable Two-Line Rear Display
Two Line Pole Display
PCMCIA Interface
External Floppy Disk Drive
External CD ROM
Remote Wireless Keyboard
Disk on Chip
APPLICATIONS
POS Hospitality PC/Workstations
Financial/Banking Retail Scanning Hotel Front Desk
Medical Kiosks
Optional Customer Display
Optional MSR and Pole Display
Tilt Angle Maximum 40°
Easy Access Cable Management
PT-4000 touch screen terminal shown with optional magnetic card reader.
POS software not included.
-----------------------------------------
iPAQ Developer Program
printable version
» iPAQ Developer
Program
The new iPAQ Developer Program is designed to enable you to produce, promote and bring to market your solution for the iPAQ Pocket PC. This program assists iPAQ Developers over the entire product life cycle from concept to end-of-life by providing tools and services to enable you to design and manufacture iPAQ applications and solutions quickly and efficiently. In addition, the program has a variety of new opportunities that facilitate product certification and distribution and drive customer awareness.
In just a few minutes you can be registered and exploring the new iPAQ Developer's site. From the all-new Developer support portal to marketing guidelines and new certification and co-marketing programs, we're confident you'll be able to find something to help you.
===============================
http://www.executivetechnology.com/images/pdf/retalixpdf.pdf
In moving from proprietary to open systems,
retailers have numerous paths to choose from.
For most retailers, an immediate "rip and
replace" strategy is not practical. Instead, some
retailers use the freedom offered by open systems
to expand their choices in the hardware
area, selecting non-proprietary POS terminals,
state-of-the-art peripherals and in-store devices.
Others replace in-store controllers first, while
others see a need to move file systems from
proprietary to open systems.
The combination of Microsoft, Hewlett-
Packard and Retalix offers supermarkets a number
of tools for the migration path that's right for
them. HP offers a wide range of hardware
designed for an open, standards-based retail
environment. These include mobility devices
such as Tablet PCs and handheld iPAQ devices
as well as in-store kiosks, for use by both customers
and store associates. HP also offers POS
terminal hardware as well as printers for any
kind of retail application.
HP's ProLiant servers running Windows are
already installed in numerous retail locations.
"Many retailers choose the ProLiant as they are
moving from their proprietary in-store systems
to an open architecture in their stores," said
Robert Corbett, Director, Retail Industry
Marketing at HP. "They are designed to support
not only the store's POS systems but other
crucial applications such as merchandising,
labor management and customer relationship
management."
Multiple Migration Tools Available
Microsoft and the companies it partners with recognize that supermarkets
need to leverage their existing investment in information technology.
They need to migrate to open, standards-based solutions at a pace that
makes sense for their business needs--and in the areas that will give
them the fastest, and biggest, return on investment.
One of the most visible benefits
of moving to open systems is
easier support for mobility solutions.
For the retail environment,
Hewlett-Packard's iPAQ comes
equipped with a scanner and
credit card reader, and is able to
communicate wirelessly to the
in-store server.
===================================
Multi-Purpose Mobile Solutions
Create Shopper Satisfaction
Because of the high-volume, fast-paced nature of supermarket retailing, these companies are
often intently focused on the basics of customer service: keeping shelves stocked, ensuring
prices are accurate and maintaining fast throughput at the checkout. But as they move to
open, standards-based information technology solutions, supermarkets are discovering they
have the capacity to expand their range of offerings, significantly enhancing their customers'
experience in the store.
............................
The Mobility Movement
With the solid foundation of the Windows XP
Embedded operating system in place, retailers can
focus on a wide range of in-store improvements.
One of the most important ways supermarkets can
enrich the shopping experience is to take advantage
of mobility solutions in the store environment.
"When managers are freed from their desks
in the back office, they can get a better sense of
what's needed to make their stores run more
efficiently and to make customers happy," said
Robert Corbett, Director of Retail Industry
Marketing at Hewlett-Packard. "When store associates
can get easier access to information,
either from kiosks located throughout the store
or from handheld wireless devices, they can offer
information on pricing, products and promotions
when and where the customer needs it."
HP provides a wide range of mobility devices,
including tablet PCs and handheld iPAQs that run
on Microsoft Windows-based operating systems.
These devices can take advantage of retailers'
existing wireless in-store architectures. In addition,
"The flexibility of open systems allows retailers
to add new functions to their existing mobile
and handheld wireless devices, allowing them to
improve customer service while leveraging their
information technology investment and lowering
their total cost of ownership," said Corbett.
Store managers using an iPAQ as a portable
terminal can gain access to numerous backoffice
and communication applications while on
the move, including customer relationship management
databases, sales associate databases,
product, pricing, promotion, merchandising and
inventory information. They can also gain mobile
access to their e-mail via Pocket Outlook, as well
as web access via Internet Explorer.
"The iPAQ becomes not simply an extension of
what's available on the manager's desktop but a
completely portable productivity tool," said Corbett.
The Retalix PocketOffice application is another
simple way for retailers to gain additional usage
from their investment in mobile handheld technology.
"PocketOffice, based on Windows CE, is really
another ‘terminal' for accessing traditional backoffice
and front-office application functions," said
Jeff Yelton, CEO of Retalix. "Because of the tight
integration that the Windows platform provides,
PocketOffice can receive vendor orders through
the back office system, and also provide queuebuster
functionality through the POS system.
Windows CE provides the common platform to
allow multiple mobile applications to reside on a
single device. And the GUI user interface is consistent,
which greatly reduces training time. The
retailer's information technology department isn't
re-learning the whole application development
standards or database--it all just plugs right in."
Managers can also be better informed about
key operational issues within their stores, such
as ensuring that checkout lanes are adequately
staffed when a promotion is about to begin. In
addition, exception-based reporting alerts can let
them know when stock levels on key items are
reaching dangerously low levels.
Mobility solutions for store associates can
also be an important element in the customer
service equation, especially when the handheld
devices they use give them deeper information
about the products and services the supermarket
offers. With the tens of thousands of SKUs carried
by the typical grocery retailer, providing associates
with access to this data while they are in
the store aisles can not only address customer
service queries but can lead to upselling and
cross-selling of related items. For example, a customer
inquiring about gourmet pasta could be
directed to a "store-within-a-store" selling all the
makings of an Italian meal, including sauces,
breads and wines.
Conversely, if store associates have to go off
the store floor to check on prices or product
availability, time-pressed customers can get a
negative impression of the store's offerings and
its customer service capabilities.
"Mobility solutions allow store associates to
be productive for the entire time they are working,"
said HP's Corbett. "And by giving these
associates an increased ability to do their jobs
more effectively, the retailer is likely to see benefits
in the form of improved employee loyalty and
retention of their top-performing people."
It's even possible to make mobility solutions
part of the customer's own shopping experience.
HP's capabilities include being part of a cartmounted
mobility device equipped with RFID
technology that would be activated with a customer's
loyalty program card. When the cartmounted
device is activated with a particular
customer's card, the store manager would be
made aware that this customer is in the store. If
the customer is a high-spending, valued shopper,
the store manager could greet the customer by
name and offer him or her special promotions,
based on the customer's spending level, past
purchase history, or a combination of factors.
The ability to track this customer's movement
throughout the store opens up new opportunities
for customer service and improved sales, especially
in the higher-margin "perimeter" departments
such as meat, seafood, deli, floral and bakery.
deployed in StoreNext is the same application
infrastructure we're selling to the larger retailers
on an enterprise basis," said Yelton, adding that
120 U.S. supermarket stores are already connected
to StoreNext Retail Technologies USA.
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