Novatel Integrates Wireless into HPC

Optional Wireline Modem Will Also be Available

The merging of handheld computing and wireless communication took another step forward with the recent introduction by Novatel Wireless Inc. of a fully integrated wireless device called the CONTACT handheld PC. Featuring a built-in CDPD (Cellular Digital Packet Data) modem, the Windows CE-based device provides users with everything required for wireless data access without the need for any additional equipment.

The CDPD modem, which operates at speeds of up to 19.2Kbps, is capable of providing speedy access to electronic mail, as well as other TCP/IP-based Internet applications. The Korean electronics giant LG Electronics, in partnership with Novatel Wireless, will be offering the wireless solution to its worldwide customers.

“LG Electronics, in partnership with Novatel Wireless, will be offering the wireless solution to its worldwide customers.”

In the meantime, Novatel is working closely with CDPD service providers to define a simple pricing method that will be suitable for a broad range of customers. Three service levels are being discussed: average, heavy, and light, with a predetermined amount of free data transfer offered upon account activation.

For users requiring both wireless and wired connections, Novatel plans to also make available an optional built-in 28.8Kbps wireline modem. The advantage of this arrangement is that both communication options remain constantly accessible while leaving the PC Card slot free for other uses such as additional storage or LAN connections.

The CONTACT HPC should be available in the third quarter of this year. The pricing has not yet been determined.