Socket’s growing family of PC Card adapters for Windows CE-based handheld PCs currently includes the Bar Code Wand Card, the Low Power Ethernet Card, the PageCard wireless receiver, the Serial I/O Card, the Dual Serial I/O Card and the combination Ethernet/Serial Card. Socket intends to release additional low power I/O adapters in the CompactFlash Type II form factor that was recently approved by the CompactFlash Association and that Socket helped develop in conjunction with Microsoft to support the new generation of Windows CE-based palm PCs and automotive PCs. Socket also intends to release a family of embedded I/O adapters that will allow manufacturers of Windows CE-based computers to offer low cost I/O options without taking up available plug-in slots for PC Cards or Type II CompactFlash cards.

Technical services available to participants in the Socket Developer Program will include training workshops and seminars, access to Socket’s proprietary development tools and demo applications, participation in beta programs for new products, technology briefings, plus priority technical support via phone, fax, and e-mail. Marketing support will include product promotion via Socket’s Solutions Guide and web site, trade show participation, joint presentations to major accounts and the press, case studies and success stories, and distribution of product information to Socket’s sales channels. Socket will also link developers to other partners for joint development projects or major sales opportunities. Organizations eligible for the developer program include VARs and ISVs developing applications for sale to commercial or vertical markets, corporations developing applications for internal use, universities, and researchers.

Stellcom, a Microsoft Solutions Provider, developer and systems integrator based in San Diego, California, is one of the first companies to become a member of the Socket Developer Program. “Socket already has a full line of products for Windows CE and is at the forefront of this exciting new technology,” said Bob Rogers, Project Manager at Stellcom. “We look forward to working with Socket’s engineering and marketing groups to take advantage of the enormous opportunity represented by Windows CE.”

“The magnitude of the Windows CE revolution is just beginning to dawn on the computer industry,” said Mike Gifford, founder and executive vice president of business development for Socket Communications. “Windows CE isn’t just going to impact the market for wearable computers. We think this modular, standards-based and processor independent operating system will change the way people think about car stereos, pagers, cellular phones, television sets and a host of smart, purpose-built appliances and control devices. We created the Socket Developer Program because we realize that to stay at the cutting edge of Windows CE technology, we have to facilitate the development of practical, real-world solutions.”

To find out how to apply for the Socket Developer Program, contact Linda Barlow at 510-744-2748, or by sending e-mail to linda@socketcom.com.

Socket Communications, Inc. develops and sells connection solutions for Windows CE based handheld computers and other mobile computers, including a family of low power Battery Friendly™ PC Card adapters for serial communications, Ethernet connectivity, mobile data collection, and wireless messaging. Socket’s PageCard® is the first alphanumeric pager able to download wireless data to a Windows CE mobile computer. Socket offers the largest family of compact flash and PC Card plug-in adapters for Windows CE computers. Socket’s products utilize the company’s low power chip technology, making them ideal for battery-operated mobile computers. For details about Socket’s product family visit Socket’s web site at http://www.socketcom.com.