Motorola Radio Modem Part of New IBM PCradio Model for Wireless Communications
BOTHELL, Wash. — August 13, 1991 — The announcement IBM's PCradio computer, combines IBM's strength in portable computing with Motorola's RPM400i radio packet modem.
This powerful combination allows mobile business users to access critical business information, where they want it and when they want it.
"This is the first time a radio packed modem will be integrated into a portable computer specially designed for mobile environment," says Glen Brownlee, general manager of the Motorola Mobile Data Division, which developed the wireless modem.
"The combination of wireless computing and shared data networks is going to have a profound impact on the way we work and the way companies conduct business in the future," says Brownlee. "Wireless data communications for the mobile workforce will be to the 90's what cellular phone was to the 80's."
IBM will install the Motorola radio packet modem into the new 9075 PCradio Model 002 computer. Without the restriction of wires, the PCradio user will be able to communicate via the Motorola modem over the joint IBM/Motorola ARDIS shared data network in the United States and Mobidata network in Canada.
The new modem features technology breakthroughs in size with the smallest and lightest data radio in the world today, industry standard interface and compatibility with existing national shared data networks. THe RPM400i also features low power consumption, an important consideration for portable computing devices such as laptops, palmtops and the new emerging pen based devices.
The IBM computer with the radio packed modem is aimed at the growing mobile workforce. For example, field service and sales representatives will have the capability for instant two-way communications on a nationwide basis from virtually any location. This places the power of office information systems into the hands of the mobile worker, providing them with immediate access to critical business information without the restrictions of landline based systems.
"Using the system, a field service or sales representative can communicate instantly and directly with office information systems, reducing paperwork and staffing requirements," Brownlee explains. "Mobile data users can enjoy reduced costs and a real edge in the competitive business environment."
The IBM and Motorola announcement marks a new era of information empowerment, bridging the gap between computing, communications and the mobile worker.
Motorola is a world leader in providing electronic equipment, systems, components and services for worldwide markets. Products include two-way radios, pagers, cellular telephone systems, semiconductors, defense and aerospace electronics, automotive and industrial electronic equipment, computers, data communications and information processing equipment.
CONTACT:
Motorola, Bothell
Mobile Data Division
John Mitchell, 604/241-6126