Any prizes for 4 correct answers ?
Only if they're right. :)
<1) What frequency range does it use?>
2.4 Ghz.
My Cisco IR source said it operates on several bands depending on circumstances.
<2) What distance does it cover? 1 mile? 2 miles? 10 miles?>
You got me there. I'll guess 5 miles.
My source didn't know. "That's not been disclosed," she said.
<3) Who are their customers? Are they in trials or have they installed beyond trials?>
No real customers to my knowledge. Product isn't production yet. As is typical of CSCO acquisitions, they bought people, not product.
Currently primarily an R&D shop. Not shipping any products. They have technology and LMDS is included but it doesn't require in-line transmission. They're in some trials, but no test data available yet.
<4) If they don't use LMDS, what do they use?>
LMDS is at a higher frequency, 24 Ghz in the US but can vary country to country. 2.4 Ghz doesn't have a fancy name, but in the US it is public spectrum. (anyone can use it ... for now )
Cisco claims it includes LMDS and uses several different frequencies.
So Pat, how'd I do
If my Cisco source is correct, then your only completely correct answer is number 3 on products and customers. The others need further clarification. Sorry, I'm a tough grader.
I asked her what else I should know about the company and she ran down the list:
Employs 39 people, Cisco had a small investment before buying them out, the company recently demonstrated 90Mbps of high spectrum, "fiber quality" transmission over wireless. I asked where the demo had been done, and she said it hadn't been public. I then asked who their competitors were and she listed the standard large integrators: Siemens, Lucent, Nortel. . . "How about Newbridge?" I asked, and she paused and said, "It's not on my list. I don't think they're a competitor." I explained about NN's three recent LMDS wins over Bosch and she got really quiet and said she'd have to do some more research. I also asked if Bosch was upset and she said, "No. Clarity is completely complementary. They bring cutting-edge, next-generation technology."
I hope Bosch returns my call. I suspect they could shine light in some dark corners.
To be continued ---
Pat |
