Posts filed under 'Wireless Tech'
Nokia today expanded its business device portfolio with an addition to its high-end smartphone range, the Nokia 9300i. Incorporating WLAN connectivity with a full keyboard, 65,536-color screen, support for a broad range of enterprise email solutions and an attachment viewer, the Nokia 9300i is the perfect combination of design and function and is ideally suited to meet the tough demands of mobile professionals.
With the addition of WLAN connectivity, the Nokia 9300i enhances productivity by providing a reliable and cost-effective data connection for downloading large files or email1 with attachments. 80 MB of memory capacity (expandable up to 2GB with an optional MMC card) provides ample space for file storage, and the wide color screen makes it easy to view different types of documents, spreadsheets, presentations and web sites. Add outstanding voice capabilities and the Nokia 9300i enterprise smartphone is a great all-in-one device.
“Nokia continues to offer more choices for individuals looking for fully featured smartphones built specifically for business use,” said Niklas Savander, senior vice president of Nokia’s business device unit for the Enterprise Solutions business group. “Our business customers want continuity as well as a constant stream of improvements in our products. The Nokia 9300i delivers just that as it combines WLAN and other features with a suite of powerful applications and email solutions.”
The Nokia 9300i smartphone supports E-GPRS (EDGE) and WLAN 802.11g, five party conference calling via an integrated speakerphone and multiple email clients (with attachments), including BlackBerry Connect, Nokia Business Center, IBM WebSphere, Oracle Collaboration Suite, Seven Always-On Mail and Visto Mobile. The Nokia 9300i smartphone also integrates infrared and Bluetooth capabilities, giving users two different ways to wirelessly synchronize their devices to a desktop PC or laptop, as well as exchange data with other mobile devices.
Planned availability for the Nokia 9300i smartphone is Q1 2006. Nokia will offer one tri-band version of the Nokia 9300i optimized for mobile networks in Europe and Asia (900/1800/1900 MHz) and capable of operating in compatible GSM networks in the Americas. For further information on features and availability, please visit www.nokia.com. For information on pricing, please contact your local Nokia representative.
November 29th, 2005
Motorola and Skype announced the first Skype-certified Bluetooth headset solution in America, the Motorola Wireless Internet Calling Kit. Available at 3,500 RadioShack stores nationwide, the Motorola wireless Internet Calling Kit enables Skype users to experience the freedom of wireless while making free, unlimited voice calls over the Internet*.
Comprised of a Motorola H500 Bluetooth Headset and PC850 PC Adapter, the Motorola Wireless Internet Calling Kit also includes 30 free SkypeOut minutes so users can make Skype calls to mobile and landline phones without additional charges. To experience wireless communications, users plug in the Motorola PC850 PC Adapter to equip traditional laptops and PCs with Bluetooth technology, load the required software onto the PC and follow a simple, step- by-step procedure to establish the cordless connection between the PC and Motorola H500 headset**.
The Motorola Wireless Internet Calling Kit is the latest offering from Motorola and Skype. Leveraging Motorola’s strength in seamless mobility, advanced technologies, devices and accessories along with Skype’s rapidly- growing global user base and rich voice and messaging communication tools, the companies aim to provide greater connectivity options and access for Skype’s more than 66 million registered worldwide users.
“Motorola and Skype are combining the power of Internet telephony with Bluetooth technology, redefining the ways that consumers can stay in touch,” said Bruce Hawver, vice president and general manager, Motorola, Inc., Companion Products. “Multi-taskers will be impressed with the streamlined communications, using the Motorola H500 Bluetooth Headset for either wire-free mobile or Internet-based calls.”
“By working with Motorola, we’re delivering products that make Skype more accessible to consumers and businesses,” said Niklas Zennstrom, Skype CEO and co-founder. “The Motorola Wireless Internet Calling Kit is the first Skype- recommended Bluetooth solution in America, reinforcing our mission to evolve the Skype solution beyond the desktop for on-the-go communications.”
With up to approximately eight hours of talk time and a lightweight, ergonomic fit, the Motorola H500 empowers Skype users to embrace wireless connectivity for Internet calls — up to 30 feet away from a Bluetooth-enabled PC. Skype users can also have calls automatically forwarded to their compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones when away from the PC and use the Motorola H500 Headset to wirelessly conduct cord-free conversations on their mobile phone***.
Pricing and Availability
The Skype Motorola Kit is available today at RadioShack and at the online Skype store, for $99.99.
November 22nd, 2005
NetGear today announced its RangeMax 240 family of wireless networking products, the industry’s first wireless networking solution capable of delivering data at speeds previously possible only through wired Ethernet connections.
Offering superior reliability and coverage, hallmarks of the RangeMax line of products, while increasing wireless speeds up to 240 Mbps, NETGEAR’s RangeMax 240 family eliminates dead spots in home or office environments and provides fast enough wireless speeds to support simultaneous bandwidth-intensive applications such as high-definition video, Voice-over-IP (VoIP) telephony, streaming audio, and online gaming.
NetGear’s RangeMax 240 Wireless Router (WPNT834) incorporates advanced MIMO technology with Adaptive Channel Expansion. It provides a data rate of up to 240Mbps when used with the RangeMax 240 Wireless Notebook Adapter (WPNT511) and USB 2.0 Adapter (WPNT121), meaning that for the first time wireless has attained an effective throughput of up to 100Mbps comparable to that of 10/100 Fast Ethernet wired networks. In addition, it is compatible with and connects simultaneously to RangeMax 240, RangeMax, and all other 802.11b/g clients. Adapting to changing wireless conditions is unique to NetGear’s RangeMax technology, and RangeMax 240 dynamically avoids interference from neighboring wireless networks to maintain the most reliable, high-performance, long-range network connections to clients.
RangeMax 240 incorporates new advanced True MIMO Gen 3 technology from Airgo Networks which uses spatial multiplexing to stream multiple data streams over a single channel, new Adaptive Channel Expansion (ACE) technology for dynamically increasing performance to support bandwidth-intensive applications in a Wi-Fi friendly way, and automatic channel selection to provide the clearest and most available channel connections. True MIMO Gen 3 also offers full speed hardware accelerated encryption for the 128 bit AES, TKIP and WEP standards as well as the latest quality of service mechanisms for video, voice and audio. Secure and easy-to-use, RangeMax 240 incorporates NetGear’s popular SmartWizard Installation Assistant and Assisted Firmware Update to ensure ease-of-installation and management, and enable automated retrieval and installation of firmware upgrades. NetGear’s “Touchless” Wi-Fi Security provides a simple interface enabling users to easily set up and connect to a secure network using standards-based Wi-Fi network security including Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA-PSK and WPA2-PSK).
“Consumers are becoming increasingly interested in network-connected devices such as digital video recorders and digital audio/video players for sharing multimedia throughout the home. Add these to the rapidly growing array of portable digital music players, digital still and video cameras, and online game consoles and it quickly becomes apparent that network bandwidth is becoming a critical component of the networked home, especially in an expanding wireless environment,” explained Mike Wolf, Director at InfoTrends Research Group. “The ability to maintain network performance with multiple bandwidth-hungry devices connected to the wireless home network requires a robust infrastructure that can deliver both speed and whole-home coverage. Solutions like the RangeMax 240 product family provide a wireless broadband infrastructure that can support the use of simultaneous applications from simple Internet access to digital media sharing, console gaming and Voice-over-IP telephony.”
“Customers have responded to the significant coverage benefits that NetGear’s initial RangeMax product line has to offer, making it the #1 selling MIMO G in the world. NetGear’s next-generation RangeMax 240 product family now combines fantastic coverage with ultra-fast 240 Mbps wireless speeds,” explained Patrick Lo, NetGear’s chairman and chief executive officer. “With many types of digital multimedia content now being stored and streamed locally on the home network, customers are finding that they require even more speed at longer distances from their wireless equipment. The wireless network now needs to provide simultaneous support for bandwidth-intensive applications such as streaming audio and high-definition video, online gaming, and Voice-over-IP telephone service. With the recent release of NetGear’s Storage Central to provide high-capacity, high-performance network-connected storage, consumers are turning to NetGear for complete solutions to securely store and share digital assets such as photos, videos and music across the entire network. RangeMax 240 extends NetGear’s undisputed leadership in the new era of wireless digital home solutions.”
“Airgo is excited to see consumers benefit from the faster speeds and extended wireless coverage of our True MIMO Gen 3 technology, the industry’s first family of wireless chipsets to deliver high quality wireless at wired speeds,” said Greg Raleigh, president and chief executive officer. “NETGEAR and Airgo are partnering to transform the wireless networking market with Airgo True MIMO Gen 3 powered solutions, enabling consumers to enjoy the full benefit of the all-digital wireless home multimedia network.”
NETGEAR RangeMax 240 Wireless Router (WPNT834)
The NETGEAR RangeMax 240 Wireless Router (WPNT834) utilizes an Advanced ‘Gen 3’ MIMO technology from Airgo Networks with both Spatial Multiplexing and Adaptive Channel Expansion (ACE) to provide speeds of up to 240 Mbps when used with RangeMax 240 wireless adapters. Spatial Multiplexing enables it to transmit multiple wireless streams of data on a single wireless channel, while ACE dynamically expands into a 2nd clear channel to provide additional speeds in a way that is Wi-Fi friendly. The RangeMax 240 Wireless Router, which simultaneously supports and improves the performance of existing legacy 802.11b and 802.11g wireless devices by up to 50 percent, delivers ultra-fast wired speeds with superior wireless coverage to eliminate dead spots throughout the home.
Equipped with an integrated wired 4-port auto-sensing 10/100 Mbps switch, the RangeMax 240 Wireless Router provides a robust set of network security features including: NAT and SPI firewalls, 64- and 128-bit WEP encryption, Wi-Fi Protected Access Pre-Shared Key (WPA-PSK and WPA2-PSK), MAC address authentication, Denial of Service (DoS) attack protection, Intrusion Detection and Prevention (IDS), Exposed Host (DMZ) for secure gaming, and support for two VPN pass-through tunnels (IPSec, L2TP, PPTP).
It also features a variety of privacy and parental controls including: “trusted user” controls, time-based usage controls, Web site logging, remote management capability, and URL content filtering.
November 8th, 2005
Intel and Motorola have announced that they are to collaborate closely to ensure that their WiMAX devices inter operate satisfactorily and to inject some momentum into development of the standard for long range wireless broadband.
WiMAX, which stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is based on the proposed IEEE 802.16e standard for both fixed and wireless broadband applications. Proposed applications include bringing broadband access to remote rural areas and also blanketing whole cities with potentially free wireless access to the internet.
“WiMAX is beginning to deliver on its promise to provide broadband wireless access to businesses and consumers, and the promise of full mobility is around the corner with the anticipated ratification of the 802.16e standard,” said Scott Richardson, general manager of Intel’s Broadband Wireless Division. “By working with Motorola on mobile WiMAX standards and technology, we can jointly develop and test equipment to meet the requirements necessary for truly mobile broadband.”
“We believe 802.16e is going to be the way to go for both fixed and nomadic applications,” said Dan Coombes, chief technology officer, Motorola Networks. “With its robust specifications and ability to support high-value services like voice over IP and mobility, 802.16e is an ideal choice for many applications. Teaming with Intel to work on 802.16e standards and interoperability matters will complement our strategy of using 802.16e with our MOTOwi4 WiMAX solutions.”
Motorola and Intel are members of the WiMAX Forum, an industry-led non- profit corporation formed to promote and certify compatibility and interoperability of broadband wireless products.
October 28th, 2005
The whole world is going Wi-Fi, or so it seems. Nikon have unveiled the first cameras to support Wi-Fi (IEEE802.11b/g) to ease the transfer of images to your computer, or direct to a network-enabled printer.
Wireless shooting automatically transfers each picture to a selected computer as soon as it is shot.
Of course, if Wi-Fi isn’t your thing you can still use the traditional memory card / USB methods of getting your shots onto a PC.
In all the excitement about Wi-Fi we nearly forgot to check whether these are actually good cameras, after all, there’s no fun in wirelessly transmitting rubbish photos. Well, we weren’t disappointed. The Coolpix P1 is 8 megapixel and the P2 is blessed with 5 megapixels.
The Coolpix P1 and P2 will be available in September 2005 with an RRP of
$549.95 and $399.95, respectively. A Wireless Print Adaptor (PD-10) will be
available in October 2005 with an RRP of $49.95.
Nikon promises that many future models will include Wi-Fi functionality as they move to position the camera as a device in which network support is ubiquitous.
September 2nd, 2005
If our UK readers have been getting jealous of the WiMax trials going on across the pond, fear not. Pipex and Airspan are teaming up to provide a 6 month trial of the technology.
Unfortunately you have to live in the Midlands (no word as to where exactly) to take part. Pipex will use Airspan to deliver broadband to businesses and to homes. In addition to data services, the trial will also test VoIP services that would allow Pipex to offer innovative product bundles.
Mike Read, Pipex’s CEO, said, “WiMax is an exciting new opportunity for Pipex and this test will help determine how we offer wireless broadband services to our customers using our licensed spectrum. Combined voice and data offerings using WiMax will enable Pipex to deliver differentiated products in addition to our existing services. We are pleased to be working with Airspan, as they are one of the world’s leading broadband wireless companies and their products will help us evaluate the full potential of WiMax.”
The technical tests will include a wide-ranging assessment of the acceptability of wireless broadband data and voice services by end-users, and a series of radio performance measurements designed to assess the long-term stability and availability of WiMax. The trial will be based on Airspan’s indoor WiMaxmodem, which will enable end-users to self-install their wireless broadband service. Future trial phases will assess the performance of other WiMaxdevice types, including laptop cards and handheld devices for both fixed and nomadic applications.
This is the first 802.16-2004 compliant WiMAX trial in the UK.
August 23rd, 2005
New research from intelligent broadband network equipment maker, Sandvine reveals that Skype is leading the VoIP provider pack in North America.
2004 was termed the ‘year of VoIP rollouts’ and the first half of 2005 has seen explosive consumer adoption. Yankee group projects that by year-end 2008, VoIP will serve 17.5 million U.S. households.
With over 1,100 VoIP providers identified Skype takes the lead and garners an astounding 35.8% of all VoIP calls in the US.
Skype takes an even more commanding lead of 46.2% when it comes to share of minutes, suggesting that Skype users are also making longer calls. Other PC-based VoIP services like Microsoft, Yahoo and AOL chat are distant seconds.
Third party paid VoIP providers represent 35.7% of all VoIP minutes. Broadband service providers hold the strongest position in this category since joining the race, quickly closing the gap with an 18.1% share of all VoIP minutes on their network. Vonage, Primus, and AT&T CallVantage capture the next three positions.
“VoIP consumes minimal bandwidth on a broadband service provider’s network. Understanding which subscribers are using VoIP, how much of it, and for how long gives service providers actionable data to prioritize VoIP traffic and ensure optimal quality of experience,” said Tom Donnelly, Sandvine executive vice president, marketing and sales.
“VoIP represents a small percentage of bandwidth, but a very large revenue opportunity for broadband service providers,” said Lindsay Schroth, senior analyst, Broadband Access Technologies, Yankee Group. “Broadband providers can capitalize on this opportunity by protecting their subscribers’ VoIP service and delivering a consistent, reliable, and high-quality service.”
Sandvine intelligent broadband management solutions monitor traffic across service provider networks representing over 40% of the US broadband market.
August 10th, 2005
It’s the problem that has always held back true interactive services on satellite television. Although the satellite has a lot of bandwidth at its disposal, there’s only a downstream. To get information back to the satellite network the consumer has to use a phone line.
DirecTV are looking at using WiMax as an alternative and are partnering with Alvarion to investigate. WiMax networks may, in the future, provide large areas with high-speed wireless internet access. The first of such networks will be created later this year in major urban centres.
Using a WiMax connection a set-top box could communicate back with a satellite network in real time making online gaming a possibility as well as the transmission of large files.
Source: Reuters
August 10th, 2005
They type and click, but now they no longer have to dial. It’s time to give your fingers a break and let your voice do the work. Now wireless users can make conference calls, send and receive e-mail and instant messages all by using their voice.
MobileVoice, powered by One Voice’s patented voice technology, is a complete carrier-grade voice solution offering unparalleled performance for voice-dialing, sending and receiving e-mail, voice-to-text messages, mobile conferencing, and voice portal. MobileVoice’s services also include a comprehensive array of contact management synchronization and importing tools for Outlook, Outlook Express, and Lotus Notes.
So exactly how much time will fingers save? “On average, it takes a user 90 seconds to add a contact in a mobile phone address book,” said Mike Isgrig, vice president marketing & sales at One Voice Technologies. For a typical user this can easily translate into over 3.0 hours of time for data input in the phone. MobileVoice allows users to download all of their contacts names and numbers directly from their PC in minutes. Everything is server-based, which eliminates the need for excessive maintenance. It requires no voice recording of names, yet allows users to voice-dial anyone in the database by just saying their name. It also has an auto-synchronize function that updates the user’s Address Book when a contact is added or changed in Outlook — automatically.
Cellular One of Amarillo, Eloqui Wireless West Central Wireless, Rural Telecommunications, Plateau Telecommunications, Ztar Mobile, Hector Communications, Golden State, Inland Cellular, and Telispire PCS have all signed a contract with MobileVoice to make the service available to their subscribers. A Spanish and Austrian German version of the service also exists.
July 15th, 2005
Sprint and Motorola are combining forces to develop WiMax technology in the form of chips, base stations and handsets.
WiMax is a term applied to a group of similar wireless protocols that will potentially allows connection speeds similar to today’s wired broadband. Various standards are currently under consideration for ratification.
Sprint’s vice president for technology research and development, Len Barlik, said he expected companies to agree on a format this year and for Sprint, Motorola and Intel to begin testing its service next year. Commercial availability would follow in 2008.
“Sprint is fostering a number of strategic partnerships and investigating multiple technologies in support of future wireless interactive multimedia services,” explained Oliver Valente, chief technology officer and vice president - Technology Development, Sprint. “WiMAX is one of the technologies Sprint is investigating for services which would be considered for deployment in the 2.5 GHz band of spectrum.”
“Motorola will use its deep heritage in wireless radio technology innovation, IP core switching and wireless devices to help Sprint validate next-generation wireless opportunities,” said Dan Coombes, senior vice president and chief technology officer for Motorola Networks.
Sprint previously signed a related agreement with Intel as it begins to develop a range of chipsets, devices, equipment and infrastructure for future wireless broadband services.
July 1st, 2005
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