Socket Communications will offer wearable bar code scanning products, as a result of demanding hands free scanning solutions.

The company will offer a tiny Cordless Ring Scanner that transmits scanned bar code data via Bluetooth to mobile computers. It is typically worn on the index finger giving the user hands free operation for increased productivity and ease of use.

“Hands free scanning or data input solutions can provide significant process efficiencies in environments such as warehouses and distribution centers where workers physically handle large volumes of products,� said David Krebs, Mobile & Wireless practice director at Venture Development Corporation.

“Socket continues to expand our family of data collection and connectivity products in response to customer demands. This lightweight and extremely durable new offering will enable customers to collect bar coded data hands free without being tied to a mobile or desktop computer,� said Peter Phillips, vice president of marketing at Socket Communications.

Socket will develop and manufacture the wearable Cordless Ring Scanner, through its exclusive three-year agreement with Liquidmetal Technologies.

Limited production units of the Cordless Ring Scanner will be available late Q4 2005, with full production beginning in Q1 2006. The units will include SocketScanâ„¢, the keyboard emulation software that directs scanned data into any Windows, Palm or Symbian application as virtual key strokes. A Software Developers Kit will be available separately for developers who wish to embed control of the Ring Scanner into their applications.