Motorola Introduces InfoTAC
VANCOUVER, B.C. — September 14, 1992 — The world of wireless communications became considerably more accessible to the average computer user Monday when Motorola's Paging and Wireless Data Group announced its InfoTAC(TM) pocket-sized, dual purpose radio packet modem.
Termed a personal data communicator, InfoTAC is a full function radio packet modem that can be connected to any laptop, notebook or pen-based computer via the standard RS-232 port connection. Until connected to the computer, however, the device acts as a portable server — with the ability to independently receive, store and respond to E-mail messages, files, database transactions and similar data.
InfoTAC is also a stand-alone two-way messaging device. Unlike a one-way alphanumeric pager, InfoTAC's built-in transmitter generates an automatic acknowledgement to each message, so the sender gets immediate proof of delivery. The user can scroll messages received by the unit, then reply via customized response prompts. Messages can ultimately be saved, deleted or uploaded via the RS-232 port for further action.
"Wireless E-mail and similar applications involving short important bursts of data will be an important catalyst to the growth of the wireless data industry," said Glen Brownlee, general manager of Motorola's Mobile Data Division. "InfoTAC is designed to capitalize on those applications by providing the portable computer user with a resource to accomplish them in the most effective, cost-efficient manner possible."
InfoTAC is designed to meet the growing needs of an increasingly mobile workforce. Like its internal radio modem predecessors, the RPM 400i and RPM 405i, which have been integrated into numerous laptop and notebook-sized computers currently on the market, the new modem features a low power consumption radio and logic board designed to communicate over wireless data networks.
When connected to any laptop or notebook computer via the RS-232 port, InfoTAC can provide real time, accurate radio datalink connection to the user's corporate data base or E-mail system.
The modem has two software interfaces for connection to an external computing device. The first, transparent mode, utilizes an industry standard AT command set. This allows a user to get started using standard communications packages.
The second, native mode, provides a more comprehensive DTE interface so that applications can be optimized for the radio packet data environment. Operation in native mode is compatible with Motorola's WaveGuide(TM) software which saves development time and effort.
InfoTAC software can be downloaded into the flash ROM by connecting to a standard PC via the DTE port. Programmable parameters include customization of prompt responses, network protocol, channel scan lists, and transceiver test and calibration.
Protocol Agile
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InfoTAC incorporates Motorola's latest 56156 digital signal processing (DSP) microchip. The DSP modem implementation permits the device to support any one of the following packet radio protocols: MMP31, MDC4800, RD-LAP 9.6 and RD-LAP 19.2.
The modem has the capability to operate on both private and public data communications networks. Among the public data networks currently in operation are ARDIS in the U.S., Bell ARDIS in Canada, Hutchison Mobile Data in Hong Kong and the U.K., and MODACOM in Germany. Other networks will be supported in the future.
"InfoTAC enables instant access to corporate and public information data bases for the millions of existing laptop and portable computer users in the U.S. today," said Frank Wapole, president of ARDIS. "InfoTAC unleashes tremendous functionality for executives and other mobile professionals who need to get closer to their customers and transact business on the move."
InfoTAC will be available for shipment in October 1992. It will be sold direct, through value-added resellers and via traditional computer retail channels. List price in the U.S. is $1,350. Each InfoTAC comes complete with a user manual, quick reference manual and charger. Accessories include external antenna, carrying case, spare battery packs, and an adaptor for trickle charging.
Motorola Inc., headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., is one of the world's leading providers of electronic equipment, systems, components and services for worldwide markets. Products include FM two-way radios, pagers, telepoint systems, cellular telephones and systems, semiconductors, defense and aerospace electronics, automotive and industrial electronics, computers, data communications and information processing and handling equipment.
Motorola was a winner of the first Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, in recognition of its superior company-wide management of quality processes.
MOTOROLA InfoTAC(TM) FACT SHEET
DESCRIPTION: InfoTAC(TM) is a personal data communicator that combines the features of a full-function modem and a stand-alone two-way messaging device. As a radio packet modem, InfoTAC operates on both public and private data communications networks. It can be connected to any laptop, notebook or pen-based computer through the RS-232 port. The modem can run standard communications software packages or applications optimized for the radio data packet environment.
InfoTAC also independently receives, stores and responds to E-mail and other short data transactions. It automatically generates a message acknowledgement to the sender, and data received can be scrolled, saved, deleted or uploaded for further action by the user.
Physical: Size – (L) 6.8 x (W) 1.3 x (H) 1.3 inches
Weight – 17.65 ounces
Display – 4 x 20 backlit LCD
Battery Life – 8 hours
Operating Temperature – 14 to 140 degrees F
Water resistant and splash-proof
Protocols: Motorola MMP31, MDC4800 (both 4.8 Kbps)
Motorola RD-LAP (19.2 Kbps and 9.6 Kbps)
Other protocols to be announced in future
Connectivity: ARDIS (U.S.)
Bell ARDIS (Canada)
Hutchison (U.K. and Hong Kong)
MODACOM (Germany)
Other networks to be announced in future
Communications: DTE port supports RS-232 signalling levels
Supports two modes of operation:
-Transparent (extended AT command set)
-Native (for RF-optimized applications)
Accessories: Batteries
AC Wall Adaptor
External Battery Charger (3 or 16 hour)
12V DC Power Adaptor
Leatherette Carry Case
RS-232 Cable
Availability: Volume Shipments- 4th Quarter, 1992
Price: $1,350 in the U.S.
CONTACT:
Motorola Inc.
Erin Kingston, 604/241-6132
Paul Battaglia, 708/692-5884
Mike Doheny, 708/576-6931