This Week’s Product Pick

MaxID Corp. (Pleasanton, CA) presented its iDL502 identity management computer with proximity card support. This rugged device now carries the complete portfolio of input functionality--QWERTY keyboard, contact card, contactless card, barcode, optical fingerprint, and optional MSR and MRZ readers--as well as GPS and comprehensive communications capabilities (GSM/GPRS/EDGE, 802.11b/g, and Bluetooth). Model iDL502 can screen credentials for passports, e-passports, Transportation Worker’s Identification Credentials (TWIC), Common Access Cards (CAC), First Responder Authentication Cards (FRAC), Personal Identity Verification (PIV), driver’s licenses, and other documentation. Further, the latest digital camera technology offers fast acquisition of FIPS-201 compliant facial images even under low light levels. Running Microsoft Windows CE .NET 5.0 and 6.0, the iDL500 offers an open, flexible platform accompanied by comprehensive Software Development Kit (SDK). Measuring 9.2 in. x 4.2 in. x 2.3 in. and weighing 1.8 lbs., the handheld accommodates 3.5-inch color TFT LCD display at 320x240 resolution that is readable in sunlight. “Adding proximity card support into our line-up of handheld devices is very important for our system integrators and customers,” stated Brian Skiba, President of MaxID Corp. U.S. “Customers are increasingly demanding the integration of identity with contactless RFID cards and physical access with 125-kHz proximity cards.”

MaxID’s iDL502 Computer

Worth Your While

RetailNOW 2010
Retail Solutions Providers Association
July 25-28
Las Vegas

NACS Show
National Association of Convenience Stores
October 5-8
Atlanta

CTIA Enterprise & Applications
CTIA-The Wireless Association
October 6-8
San Francisco

AIM Expo
Association for Automatic Identification and Mobility
November 1-3
Chicago

Customer Engagement Technology World
(Formerly KioskCom & The Digital Signage Show)
November 10-11
New York

ALL IN THE FAMILY

CipherLab Ships 9600

CipherLab (Plano, TX) has stocked its Microsoft Windows CE-based 9600 industrial mobile computer with integrated multi-modal wireless compatibility and multi-form data entry capabilities. With integrated GPS, Cisco CCX-compatible WLAN powered by Summit Data Communications, and GSM/GPRS/EDGE, the 9600 series lets users upload and download data from virtually any location. The new device carries linear imager, two-dimensional imager or laser options, built-in RFID reader/writer, electronic signature capture, and two-megapixel digital camera. Its combination of 3.5-inch VGA touchscreen, 29-button keypad, Windows CE 6.0 O/S, and small, rugged package makes the 9600 particularly user-friendly, according to the manufacturer.

To expand and customize the 9600 for individual business needs, it comes with CipherLab’s application software and Application Programming Interface (API). In addition, Naurtech’s CETerm terminal emulation facilitates data collection by providing access to legacy mainframe and web-based platforms. Finally, SOTI MobiControl allows remote device monitoring and system updates as well as configuration changes to minimize costs associated with ongoing network maintenance.

“This is by far the most advanced mobile computer, setting industry standards for mobile access and data entry methods, usability, and ruggedness while still retaining CipherLab’s reputation for value and reliability,” declared Sherman Chuang, President of CipherLab in Taiwan. “Since the 9600 comes with integrated GPS, WWAN, WLAN, and WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Network) access, it’s equally at home in the field, on the retail floor, or at the warehouse, keeping employees constantly connected and productive.” For more information on the 9600, click here.

CipherLab’s 9600 Industrial Mobile Computer

An Interruptible Power Supply

Tripp Lite (Chicago) unveiled its line of Hot-Swap Power Distribution Units, or PDUs, which make it possible to remove standard plug-in UPS systems for maintenance or replacement with no disruption of service. These subsystems are offered in five models, 10A to 30A, all universally compatible with UPS systems up to 3000VA. Installation formats include two or four-post racks and space-saving rear-post mounting. UPS, of course, represents Uninterruptible Power Supply.

Hot-Swap PDUs hold dual input power cables that connect both to the UPS and directly to the primary power source. During normal operation, the PDU supplies conditioned power from the UPS to supported equipment. A manual transfer switch enables the load to be shifted from the UPS to direct primary power. The UPS may then be powered down and removed from the network without corruption of normal operations.

“Viewed from the perspective of lifecycle, your standard plug-in UPS system isn’t necessarily uninterruptible,” quipped Rich Feldhaus, Product Manager for Tripp Lite. “At some point it may be necessary to take the UPS off line for maintenance--and that means costly system downtime. But with Tripp Lite’s new Hot-Swap PDUs, the UPS can be repaired or replaced at any time, while keeping connected mission-critical equipment powered and fully operational.”

Hot-Swap PDU from Tripp Lite

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ALLIANCES

Aldata Wields AX for Midsized Retail

Microsoft Corp. (Redmond, WA) and Aldata (Atlanta) will join forces to deliver new vertical applications for midsized retailers to complement Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail. Under the global agreement, Aldata will offer Replenishment and Merchandizing Optimization, Store and POS Management, and Loyalty and Digital Marketing modules “that are ready made, fast to implement, and easy to use.” These new solutions and accompanying go-to-market strategy will augment Aldata’s existing product lines and will not replace or supersede any existing company products, according to the retail software provider.

“The agreement with Aldata demonstrates the ability of Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail to provide a solid, scalable foundation for the retail environment,” suggested Crispin Read, GM, Microsoft Dynamics ERP. “Aldata’s deep experience in the retail sector, as well as international delivery and support organization, help bring the benefits of Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail to store owners worldwide.” On his part, Allan Davies, Chief Marketing Officer for Aldata, pointed to the global brand and stability of Microsoft SQL Server. Aldata, incidentally, will first field the new applications in its home country of Finland.

Almost two years in the making, Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail will be generally available in 16 countries in August, including the U.S., with more geographic roll outs to follow early next year. It seeks to provide an out-of-the-box, end-to-end solution that combines logistics, supply chain, and financials with POS and store management tools to help retailers streamline business processes and more readily connect with their customers. Above and beyond, it especially suits companies that operate in multiple countries because of its built-in multi-language, multi-currency, and multi-legislative features.

Target Markets Include Home Electronics, Do-It-Yourself, and Soft Goods

Godex Driven By Teklynx

Teklynx (Milwaukee) has developed drivers for all of the barcode printers from Godex International (Camarillo, CA). These drivers allow users to design and print barcode labels on Godex printers through Codesoft, Labelview, and Label Matrix from Teklynx, which bills itself as the world’s largest independent Auto ID software publisher. Drivers may be downloaded from that company’s website.

“Teklynx is one of the most respected providers of barcode labeling software in our industry, while Godex is one of the newest and fastest-growing barcode printer brands,” offered Bruce Glenn, GM of Godex Americas. “This driver support event is the perfect combination of the most well-known with an up and coming supplier, which results in new benefits for end-users and resellers alike.”

Established in 1993, with headquarters in Taipei, Taiwan, Godex International manufactures and markets desktop and industrial barcode products. The company sells through resellers, works with Seagull Scientific and Niceware International, in addition to Teklynx, and promotes its portfolio as “value priced and high performance.” RRN.Com readers may remember Bruce Glenn from his years as Sales Director for Eltron International, now part of Zebra Technologies.

EZ-2200Plus Industrial Label Printer from Godex

Code Corner

Sybase, Inc. (Dublin, CA) released SQL Anywhere 12, the latest version of its leading database and synchronization solution. Version 12 carries major new enhancements, including support for spatial data, iPhone devices, and large-scale synchronization environments, in addition to new self-management features. In the area of spatial data, all capabilities have been addressed--tracking, location-aware querying, data management, and storage and synchronization. By adding iPhone to SQL Anywhere 12, Sybase becomes the only database vendor to provide such capabilities for BlackBerry, Windows Mobile, and Apple’s new platform, according to the developer. For self-management, innovations have been made in the case of server thread auto-tuning that adapts to changing workloads, self-healing statistics management, and dynamic cache sizing for environments in which resources are changing in real time and database administrator assistance is unavailable. Lastly, developer productivity has been enhanced through new Oracle/MySQL compatibility, support for .NET 4.0 and Visual Studio 2010, and enhanced full-text search filtering. “The scale out components, migration process, and multi-programming adjustments now available in SQL Anywhere 12 are second to none,” testified David Paiva, CTO at PAR PixelPoint, supplier of restaurant POS software. “While new features have been added, Sybase has made the features we already love simpler and easier to use. SQL Anywhere is absolutely key to the reliability, scalability, and ease of use of our application. It’s been rock solid.”

CERTIFICATION

CognitiveTPG Reaches Point of Success

Inborne Technology Corporation (Mesa, AZ) has approved Advantage DLX thermal barcode printers from CognitiveTPG (Lincolnshire, IL) for use with its Point of Success hospitality software solution. Advantage DLX printers may be employed in labeling delivery or carry-out/take-out order information for bags or boxes, as well as for tracking store inventory and materials. Available in two-inch and four-inch versions, Advantage DLX features 32-bit processor and 16 MB of DRAM, five inches per second (ips) print speed, best-in-class first label out performance, and standard USB connectivity.

“Many of our pizzeria and take-out restaurant customers were replacing their CognitiveTPG Blaster printers,” reported Jeff Ward, CEO of Inborne Technology Corporation. “We wanted to be sure they could continue to use another similar high-quality product from CognitiveTPG, so we made the development investment to certify Point of Success for use with the Advantage DLX. Certification went smoothly and we received all the support we needed.”

Busy spring for Inborne Technology Corporation. In April, the developer released its Point of Success POS Version 2.62 with implementation of loyalty/rewards from Mercury Payment Systems, editing of online orders, and several significant improvements to functionality. This was followed in May by the launch of Point of Success Inventory to help restaurants track stock and manage food costs. This month, Inborne has taken on payment card security, with PA-DSS (Payment Application Data Security Standard) validation expected in the next several weeks, RRN.Com was told.

Advantage DLX Thermal Barcode Printers from CognitiveTPG

Psion, Ryzex, Break, Fix

Psion Teklogix (Hebron, KY) has signed Ryzex (Bellingham, WA) as its Authorized Service Center in North America, marking the first third-party firm thus designated. “Ryzex has been our valued reseller partner for many years,” stated Pascal Llorca, VP of Global Service at Psion Teklogix. “This partnership expands our offering, improves the ability to service our customers, and reflects our dedication to providing the best technology available in the rugged mobile handheld market.”

“We’re excited to partner with Psion Teklogix and extend our repair service offerings to include leading-edge rugged mobile devices such as WorkAbout Pro 3, Ikon, Neo, and their line of vehicle mount computers,” said Lorne Rubis, CEO/President of Ryzex. “This augments our current product offerings, such as new mobile computer sales, implementation, and device management services, enabling us to provide full service solutions that meet the needs of our combined customers.”

Elsewhere, Ryzex also placed mobile device management software from Wavelink (Midvale, UT) into TNT Express, Europe’s largest express delivery company. To date, TNT Express has rolled out nearly 20,000 licenses of Wavelink Avalanche Mobility Center across 72 countries, with plans for well over 30,000 licenses. Avalanche allows network administrators to remotely diagnose and remedy software issues, conduct front-end deployments, and provide assisted guidance for end-users.

Lorne Rubis, CEO/President of Ryzex

Key Advertiser Links

Be sure to visit these vendors for the latest in channel products and offers for resellers.

POS & Auto ID Distribution
BlueStar

POS & Peripherals
Logic Controls
Pioneer POS
Posiflex Business Machines
POS-X

POS Systems - Hospitality
PAR

Barcode & Mobile Printers
Datamax-O'Neil

Barcode & Transaction Printers CognitiveTPG

Cash Drawers
APG Cash Drawer
MMF POS

Data Collection Terminals
CipherLab
Datalogic Mobile
Datalogic Scanning
Janam Technologies

Data Collection Software
Wavelink

Integrated Payment Solutions
Datacap Systems
Payment Processing, Inc.

Keyboards
Cherry Electrical Systems

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Citizen Systems America
Epson America
Star Micronics

Screen Protection
3M Optical Filters

Self-Service Kiosks
Zebra/Motorola

Video Surveillance & Access Control
ScanSource Security

HELLO GOODBYE

Citizen Strengthens Sales Bench

Citizen Systems America (Torrance, CA) has bolstered its sales staff with two strategic placements. First, Ron Brown will focus on the company’s Auto ID printer line and North American channels as Sales Director based in Haslet, TX. In addition, Miguel Gil will help execute Citizen’s Latin American market strategy from his post in Pembroke Pines, FL. Both Brown and Gil bring relevant industry experience to their new positions.

Before joining Citizen, Brown worked at SATO, Printronix, and Domino Amjet. “Ron has had exceptional success driving revenue growth and motivating reps and channel sales teams,” commented Oscar Ibarra, EVP, Citizen Systems America. “He combines business acumen and an analytical approach with a strong commitment to teamwork, loyalty, fun, and results. In addition, he has worked with diverse industry sectors such as manufacturing, supply chain, healthcare, hospitality, and retail, with well-known customers and brands.”

Gil comes to Citizen with technical expertise in POS and barcoding, including four years as Business Development Manager at ScanSource. “Miguel has broad business experience across many disciplines,” Ibarra noted, “including direct and indirect sales, marketing, strategic planning, and relationship building. He also possesses world-class bilingual presentation and communication skills.”

Miguel Gil, Sales Manager, Citizen Systems America

Hive of VAR Activity for Wasp

Wasp Barcode Technologies (Plano, TX) has drafted Chris Wilkes as its National Channels Manager, the first step in its push to energize efforts among resellers. As part of his charter, Wilkes will develop an in-depth VAR strategy that the company will put in place later this year. Prior to joining Wasp, Wilkes served as EVP of Business Development for Incentra, LLC, an IT VAR and MSP. Wasp Barcode, many RRN.Com readers know, enjoys success by providing data capture and tracking systems designed specifically for small business.

“By putting an industry veteran in a leadership channel role, we are bringing new focus and resources to the Wasp reseller community,” indicated Tom O’Shea, GM for Wasp Barcode Technologies. “This will create long-term benefits for our partners, who can provide Wasp’s unique productivity solutions to their clients and gain additional revenue opportunities.”

“I joined the Wasp management team because I was impressed with the strong demand for Wasp’s complete small business offerings, as well as the company’s dedication to the VAR channel,” Wilkes shared. “I’m excited to take our solutions even deeper for VARs and look forward to becoming an integral part of the business.”

Chris Wilkes, National Channels Manager, Wasp Barcode Technologies

Channel Factoid

Nearly one-half of law firms in the U.S. plan to increase spending on IT in 2010, according to the new study from CompTIA, the non-profit trade association. Not surprisingly, many firms in this $300 billion per year vertical segment will focus on core investments such as notebook PCs (24% will buy), desktop PCs (22%), and smart phones (22%). But the study also reveals that growing numbers of law firms will explore emerging technologies in order to address dissatisfaction with IT. To fulfill more specialized applications, purchase intentions include disaster recovery/business continuity (16%), data storage (16%), document/records management (15%), e-discovery applications (15%), case management (14%), and litigation support (14%). Additionally, lawyers cite mobility and remote functionality as their greatest unmet technology needs. Moreover, when presented with the concept of managed IT services, six out of ten law firms express at least some level of interest. “This next wave of IT investment by legal services firms will require more education and assistance from the IT solution providers serving them,” concluded Tim Herbert, VP of Research, CompTIA.

INTEGRATION

No More Secrets at Savi

Savi Technology (Mountain View, CA) has announced that for the first time in its two decades of business it will open up its RFID capabilities to developers who want to leverage them for their own market applications. Currently, Savi provides real-time visibility on the location, security, and condition of supply chain assets for industries such as defense, chemical, transportation, and emergency relief. It functions as the wholly-owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, and provides the backbone of the U.S. Department of Defense’s In-Transit Visibility Network--the world’s largest RFID cargo-tracking system.

Tools available under the Savi Developer Program encompass both RFID hardware and software: Web Services API, Adaptive Applications utilizing Savi SmartChain, and low-power, long-range DASH-7 (ISO-18000-7) hardware components. Savi Web Services allow developers to build their own web solutions for Item Unique Identification (IUID) and supply chain management, while SmartChain gives developers the framework to adapt software applications to their specific market needs. Finally, Savi OEM Reader and Tag Modules include all the core components to build RFID into third-party products.

“The Savi Developer Program will help to accelerate deployment of RFID-based solutions to meet growing demand in a market that continues to mature,” related David Stephens, CEO of Savi. “This is a milestone event for Savi technology and the industry because it helps to rapidly extend proven real-time solutions into existing and completely new supply chain, manufacturing, or consumer goods markets.” In particular, Stephens pointed to the need to better track automotive parts, food and beverages, and pharmaceuticals.

Savi Technology’s RFID Helps Brings Supplies to Haiti