Ericsson Unveils PCMCIA Wireless Modem

Anywhere, anytime data communication is, in large part, a reality today. However this convenience often comes at a price. Unfortunately, this price currently includes extra bulk and weight, in addition to the computing device that hopes to exchange data with a remote system.

All that is changing. The Swedish telecommunications giant, Ericsson, has demonstrated a wireless packet radio data modem for the OEM market that resides on a Type III PCMCIA card. The device, currently dubbed the M2190, is part of an important advance in the state of wireless technology that enables sophisticated new options for laptop and PDA-class computers.

The M2190 relies on the computer’s main batteries for much of its power, though it is supplemented by a small booster battery using a trickle charge. The modem operates using the Ericsson-designed Mobitex packet radio network, which also features an additional power saving mode.

To improve reception, the M2190 uses a small, external antenna that is connected to the PCMCIA case. The device offers protection from radio frequency interference, and features software-controlled temperature compensation. Physically, the M2190 measures 86 x 53 x 10 mm (3.4″ x 2.1″ x 0.4″) and weighs approximately 56 g (2 ounces).

The Mobitex network itself is perhaps the most widely used mobile data network architecture, in use in about 15 countries worldwide. In the United States and Canada, the Mobitex network is operated by RAM Mobile Data and Rogers Cantel, Inc. respectively.

Currently, Cedar Rapids, Iowa-based Norand Corporation is integrating the M2190 in its family of PEN KEY ruggedized handheld computers for use in vertical markets that require wide-area communication options.

Ericsson Inc.
Contact Patricia Nicolas or Dona Shelton of Alexander Communications (404) 325-7555