NPLA Inplay Technologies (MM)

InPlay Technologies (NASDAQ: NPLA) today introduced the InPEN, the first intelligent digital pen for integration with tablet PCs. With a microcontroller inside, the pen is a self-contained smart device capable of a wide range of unique functions while still allowing for additional enhancements in the future. InPlay has scheduled demonstrations of the new technology for various attendees at Microsoft�s 16th annual Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) held this week in Los Angeles, Calif. �Utilizing a microcontroller as the 'brain' inside the pen, we make the pen a self-sufficient, intelligent device,� said Eric Vandewater, chief technology officer for InPlay�s MagicPoint� division. �The microcontroller sends a unique digital identifier to the system. The identifier can be as simple as a highlighter function or can perform a more complex security code. InPEN is a flexible technology platform that can be customized to meet the needs of the designing OEM.� The InPEN pen technology is easily configured in a variety of ways. For example: As a suite of pens for designers including different colors, highlighters and an eraser to offer a digital experience similar to pen-on-paper; As unique identifiers for multiple people accessing the same documents or system; As a collaborative tool for multiple users in a meeting or teaching environment; and As a security device to allow different users different rights and access on the same system. �Our digital stream communication technology enables new possibilities for pen input,� said Ramesh Ramchandani, chief operating officer for InPlay�s MagicPoint� division. �Our competitors� analog pen system used with most tablet PCs today is limited in its expansion capability. With digital, we offer OEMs an almost limitless roadmap for development of features and functions for their product designs.� �By adding intelligence to the pen, making it an even more useful device, we hope to see pen input ultimately become a standard PC user interface such as the mouse or other cursor controllers,� Ramchandani added. The core MagicPoint� technology consists of a digitizer behind the LCD and digital writing pen. InPlay is advancing pen computing technology, using a cordless, active RF digital pen versus the analog pen used with most pen computing systems in the tablet PC market today. More information on MagicPoint� solutions can be found at www.inplaytechnologies.com. About InPlay Technologies InPlay Technologies develops, markets and licenses proprietary emerging technologies. Working with its licensees and OEM customers, InPlay offers technology solutions that enable innovative designs and improved functionality for electronic products. The company�s MagicPoint� technology is the only digital-based pen-input solution for the rapidly growing tablet PC and mobile computing markets. Its Duraswitch� brand of electronic switch technologies couples the friendly tactile feedback of mechanical pushbuttons and rotary dials with the highly reliable, thin profile of membrane switches, making it ideal in a wide range of commercial and industrial applications. InPlay is focused on further commercializing these technologies and seeking additional innovative technologies to enhance its portfolio. Visit www.inplaytechnologies.com for more information.