March/April 2003

Printer manufacturer Printronix is to manufacture and sell a Symbol-branded wireless- and Web-enabled printer - drawing on Symbol experience in the radio data arena and underlining its compliance with Symbol technology. The arrangement is covered by a new strategic alliance between the companies.

The TPS5000 is a Web-enabled, industrial-grade thermal barcode printer designed for exacting label applications. It features Symbol's Spectrum 24 wireless local-area network technology, which is based on the 802.11b standard.

When equipped with Printronix's PrintNet Enterprise system, it is said to give users total visibility over their enterprise printer remotely. The printer has a completely sealed case design, and is said to offer "industry-best" print speed and throughput. It targets harsh industrial environments such as warehouses, factory floors and shipping docks.

The product line includes 4in, 6in and 8in models equipped with wireless local area network and wired network interface connectivity. Each has been "pre-qualified" by Symbol to ensure compatibility with other Symbol systems and with Symbol's AirBEAM network management software.