Melard Technologies, Inc. announces the availability of the SIDEARM All-Terrain Handheld PC[TM] with an integrated one-dimensional laser scanner. Similar to retail bar code scanning, the 1-D high-capacity bar code scanner can capture and decode data, allowing technicians who use the new SIDEARM to quickly access important information through traditional laser scanning.

Consistent with the SIDEARM's one-of-a-kind lightweight, yet rugged design and construction, Melard was able to equip the SIDEARM with the smallest and lightest, low-powered, rugged scan engine available on the market. With the ability to read 95 percent of all bar codes, the new SIDEARM with integrated scanning capability will save technicians from having to punch in identification codes manually, resulting in quantifiable time savings and a much lower margin of error. Accessing bar code information is crucial for many different field service tasks for which the SIDEARM is currently used, such as asset accounting, inventory management, shipping and receiving, field inspection, cable and route delivery.

The SIDEARM is a Microsoft Windows[R] CE-based, rugged computer with integrated wireless communications. Unlike other devices in its class, the SIDEARM. leverages Melard's 18-plus years of experience with wireless data communications to provide field service organizations with real-time wireless access to the Internet, automated dispatch and peer-to-peer communications in the field. The SIDEARM with 'scanner is available immediately at an estimated price of $3,299 per unit.

For more information, visit www.melard.com.