Through IBM's WebSphere Everyplace Connection Manager (WECM) software Intermec's 700 Series of mobile computers can now stay connected to applications as they move between wide area and local area wireless networks.

According to the companies, IBM's WECM software supports Intermec's dual-radio computers to provide seamless roaming that does not require users to log on each time they re-enter network coverage. The Intermec-IBM system continually monitors the airwaves to determine what coverage is available and automatically routes wireless traffic through the lowest-cost network.

We agree with the companies assessment that seamless roaming between networks is important for wireless computing, as it provides cost savings to users by reducing wireless airtime charges and leveraging investments in 802.11b wireless LANs and public-access "hot spot" connection services.

Intermec claims the 700 Series is the first handheld computer line to offer wireless roaming. IBM's WECM solution allows session persistence over any of the radio options available in the Intermec 700 Series, including GPRS, CDMA, or IEEE 802.11b. The 700 Series also supports Bluetooth wireless for short-range connectivity between computers and peripherals, and can simultaneously support all three forms of wireless communication in a single device. Intermec's SymPhone option allows workers to use their 700 Series computers to make voice-over-IP (VoIP) phone calls over wireless LANs.

About the Intermec 760
The color Intermec 760 Pocket PC integrates three radios that support wireless local area networks (LAN) via 802.11b, personal area networks (PAN) via Bluetooth, and wide area networks (WAN) via either GPRS or CDMA. The device also offers integrated imager options to read 1D and 2D bar codes and supports photography applications, including signature capture.