Honeywell Unveils Revolutionary Area-imaging Scanners

Xenon Series Combines Two Leading-Class Technologies in One Device

Eindhoven, The Netherlands May 4, 2010 Honeywell (NYSE: HON) today announced the introduction of the Xenon series, the companys sixth generation of hand-held area imaging scanners. Xenon is the first Honeywell scanner to combine two proven technologies, Adaptus Imaging Technology and Omniplanars SwiftDecoder decoding software, to create an industry-leading platform that extends depth of field, shortens read time and improves scanning performance, including faster throughput and processing, on almost all types of bar codes. Designed to meet the needs of workers in healthcare, retail, manufacturing, postal/courier and government, Xenon is available in two easy-to-use models: the corded 1900 and Bluetooth-enabled 1902.

Xenon utilises Adaptus Imaging Technology 6.0 to read high density linear bar codes, 2D bar codes and those found on alternative surfaces, such as the screen of a mobile device. Adaptus also provides enhanced image capture capabilities, including auto-cropping, resolution enhancement and sharpening filters that increase flexibility and ease integration into existing applications. Combined with SwiftDecoder software, which improves the scanners ability to decode damaged and hard-to-read bar codes, Xenon delivers unmatched scanning performance.

The Xenon series is not only a major advancement in our scanning portfolio, but also the industry, as it brings the best of two worlds together to form a scanning platform with next-generation capabilities, said Darius Adamczyk, president, Honeywell Scanning & Mobility. In our internal testing, Xenon outperformed the other scanners tested in a wide variety of use case scenarios. We look forward to offering our customers this series of feature-rich scanners that will reshape the AIDC industry.

Another differentiator for Xenon is its custom sensor, optimised specifically for bar code reading to deliver improved scanning aggressiveness. Additionally, as the sensor is manufactured only for Honeywell scanning products, it helps avoid supply chain issues experienced with off-the-shelf camera sensors used by other area-imaging scanners. Unlike most competitors within the AIDC space, Xenons internal infrastructure mounts critical components on a single board, reducing the need for connectors. This improves serviceability and reliability, while minimising downtime and increasing productivity.   

Our customers demand quick, efficient and seamless transactions, said Brad Fick, president, Direct Source, Inc. To meet this need, we collaborate with partners like Honeywell to provide advanced scanning solutions. It serves our customers well that Honeywell is a proven leader in the imaging space.
Xenon also comes equipped with Honeywells TotalFreedom development platform, which expands Xenons functionality by allowing image processing, decoding and formatting application plug-ins to be loaded directly to the scanner instead of the host system. Additionally, the device is compatible with Honeywells Remote MasterMind (ReM) scanner management software, which provides a quick and convenient solution for IT administrators seeking to manage all scanners within their network from a single remote location, enabling users to perform tasks ranging from asset tracking to software upgrades.

EZConfig, Honeywells new scanner configuration software, is launching along with Xenon. With an easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI), EZConfig saves time and increases productivity by simplifying scanner configuration.

Xenons space-saving design fits well in any sized hand, increasing comfort and reducing operator fatigue. The scanners rugged form factor is capable of withstanding up to 50 drops to concrete from distances as high as six feet. Xenon also offers optional disinfectant-ready housing to minimise degradation in environments where scanners must be cleaned frequently with harsh chemicals, such as healthcare facilities.

Corded Xenon scanners are now available, while Bluetooth Xenon scanners will begin shipping in June. For more information on Xenon, please visit www.honeywellaidc.com/xenon_press_release
 
Adaptus, Remote MasterMind, SwiftDecoder and TotalFreedom are trademarks or registered trademarks of Hand Held Products, Inc. or Metrologic Instruments, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries.
 
Bluetooth is the trademark or registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG in the United States and/or other countries.
Honeywell International (www.honeywell.com) is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywells shares are traded on the New York, London, and Chicago Stock Exchanges. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywellnow.com

Media contact:
Lydia Curtis
Weber Shandwick Technology
020 7067 0513
lcurtis@webershandwick.com