Compaq will produce the first handheld computing device with built-in smart-card technology.
The forthcoming handheld PC will include an embedded smart-card reader and a smart card from Schlumberger Smart Cards and Terminals.
Smart cards increase information security by requiring the insertion of a card along with a typed password.
The as-yet-unnamed handheld is slated to debut this week at the CardTech/SecurTech conference in Chicago.
While Compaq officials would not divulge the product's price tag or a definitive date for its release, they did confirm that the new handheld would ship during the second quarter.
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Package lost? Federal Express will provide wireless access to handheld PC users.
Through an agreement with AvantGo Inc., FedEx customers will soon be able to download free tracking software onto a handheld device.
If all goes well with this week's software tests, package status information should be available starting on 17 May.
Access to listed shipping rates and drop-off locations is set for later this summer.
