Compaq and Proxim Announce Plans to Deliver the Internet the Way it Should Be -- Wirelessly
Business Wire - November 15, 1999 08:37
LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 15, 1999--
--Number One Retail PC Provider, Leading Wireless LAN Supplier
Align to Provide HomeRF-based Products for Cordless Internet
Access and Home Networking--
Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE:CPQ) and Proxim, Inc., (Nasdaq:PROX) today announce a ground-breaking alliance to deliver wireless home networking products to consumers.
These products will be based on the HomeRF(TM) Working Group's industry standard protocol for untethered Internet access and networking of devices. This alliance brings significant value to the customer by delivering on the consumers' desire for a lifestyle of convenience and flexibility at a low cost.
Starting in the first quarter of 2000, Compaq will provide HomeRF-based products licensed from Proxim to complement its line of Presario Internet PCs, delivering advanced wireless Internet access and wireless networking solutions to home and small office/home office (SOHO) customers. Compaq will offer the Cordless Universal Serial Bus (USB) Adapter for Presario desktops and the Cordless PC Card for Presario notebook users. Any combination of these products creates a seamless wireless home network, enabling simultaneous Internet sharing, printer and file sharing, head-to-head gaming, and distribution of V.90 or broadband Internet throughout the home and small office environment.
"In today's corporate office, people tend to work at their desks," said Michael Wolf, Cahners In-Stat senior analyst, home networking. "But in the home, mobile devices such as the cordless phone have created a demand for convenient, untethered connections that afford a higher degree of comfort and freedom. We see wireless home networking as the solution providing that lifestyle. This announcement by Compaq and Proxim marks an important step toward the future of wireless data and voice convenience in the home."
HomeRF technology implementations planned for 2H'00 and beyond will support high-quality voice and audio communications, higher data rates and wireless Internet access outside the home. These enhancements will enable a whole new class of applications, including cordless telephony, streaming music and video, and broadband wireless Internet connectivity in public "hot spots." Ultimately, wireless networks will extend beyond PCs to include innovative web appliances and other mobile devices seamlessly communicating to deliver a completely networked home and a truly connected consumer.
"Compaq is leading the industry with PC products optimized for the 'e-lifestyle,' and once again we have stepped forward with a product which will enhance people's lives," said Sean Burke, Vice President of Presario Products, Compaq Computer Corporation. "Now with Proxim's HomeRF technology, our customers will have the flexibility and freedom to access the Internet anywhere they feel comfortable: on the couch, in the kitchen, on the patio, or wherever they choose."
"Compaq's solutions have proven to be the most popular computing products in retail, and we're pleased that they will soon deliver HomeRF-enabled products to their customers for cordless networking in the home at consumer price points," said David C. King, Proxim Chairman, President and CEO. "Utilizing Proxim's technology, consumers will be able to use Compaq products wherever they need to connect -- at home, in the office or on the road
|
