Starwood Galaxy Hotel Systems, owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts, turned to Symbol Technologies, IBM, and Computerized Security Systems (CSS)-Saflok to build a wireless application that lets a hotel guest avoid spending precious time at the front desk. Equipped with Symbol's handheld computers, hotel agents can check in, process credit cards, print receipts and, program room keys whether a hotel guest is hopping into cab, in meeting or at a gambling table in a casino. StarWalker features IBM middleware, software, and mobile and wireless technology to integrate a hotel’s property management system with Symbol’s handhelds.

At present Starwood is testing the system at the Sheraton Hotel in Parsippany, New Jersey. The International hotel chain plans to install the system in many Sheraton, Four Points by Sheraton, Westin, St. Regis, Luxury Collection, and W Hotels.

• Symbol PT 1740 Palm power terminal, a Web-enabled handheld computer, incorporating Symbol's Spectrum® 24 wireless LAN and featuring a bar code scanner and pen access
• Symbol's Portable Encoding Printer (PEP) produces receipts and programs room keys
• IBM developed the application software, which handles the integration, customization, installation, along with providing technical support services
• IBM xSeries e-server, running WebSphere Application Server, and MQ Series middleware are part of the application
• CSS-Saflok’s electronic locking system is integrated into the application to program room keys

"This specialized technology creates a more pleasurable travel experience. With shorter lines and less hassles, our guests have more valuable time to relax, get work done or have fun," said Danny Hudson, vice president, Property Technology Strategy, Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

For more information: http://www.symbol.com/news/pressreleases/pr_hospitality_starwood.html