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Technology Stocks : Bluetooth: from RF semiconductors to softw. applications -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Jim Oravetz who wrote (170)	2/28/2000 2:03:00 PM
From: Mats Ericsson	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 322

Bluetooth testing + news on TER, MSFT, XTND, SCKT, etc Ericsson Microelectronics Selects Teradyne's MicroWAVE6000(TM) for Bluetooth(TM) Radio Device Testing BOSTON, Feb. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Teradyne, Inc. (NYSE: TER - news) announced today that Ericsson Microelectronics has selected Teradyne's MicroWAVE6000(TM) instrumentation suite for testing its Bluetooth(TM) radio and mobile phone RF IC devices. The instrumentation was installed along with multiple new Teradyne test systems at Ericsson's Kista, Sweden facility and at an Asian subcontractor's facility during the fourth quarter of last year with additional shipments slated for this quarter. Teradyne and Ericsson Microelectronics have together developed the first test application to be used on the purchased Teradyne equipment for Bluetooth wireless technology. Ingemar Svedin, Senior Test Specialist for Ericsson Microelectronics, said, ``We selected Teradyne's MicroWAVE6000 because it offers aggressive performance specifications and the unique functionality required for full test coverage of Bluetooth devices. Cooperation between leading-edge companies is required to cope with the demands that technologies like Bluetooth put on testing. We are pleased to work with Teradyne to enable cost efficient production testing of these complex and high volume RF devices.' David Derian, Teradyne Wireless Product Manager, said, ``We are proud to be teamed with Ericsson Microelectronics as it leads the Bluetooth technology development ramp-up. We support Ericsson by providing wireless test solutions and worldwide service. We are excited to be working with the leader and meeting the challenges in Bluetooth testing.' Socket Demonstrates World's First Bluetooth Plug-in Card for Windows-powered Mobile Devices CompactFlash Card Shown Working with HP's PC Companions at CTIA and CeBIT Shows NEW ORLEANS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 28, 2000-- Socket Communications Inc. (OTC BB:SCKT - news, SCKTW - news; PSE:SOK) today became the first company to publicly demonstrate a Bluetooth-compatible plug-in card for Pocket PCs and Handheld PCs powered by the Microsoft Windows CE operating system. At the CTIA Wireless 2000 trade show in New Orleans and the CeBIT trade show in Hannover, Germany, Socket conducted technology demonstrations of the Personal Network Card(TM), a fully integrated CompactFlash CF+ card that supports the Bluetooth short-range wireless interconnect standard for personal area networking. In the demonstration, two Handheld PCs from Hewlett-Packard Company's Jornada product family used Personal Network Cards to exchange files and conduct chat sessions wirelessly. Production versions of Socket's Personal Network Card, expected to be available in the second half of 2000, will enable users to connect mobile computers cordlessly to a variety of Bluetooth-enabled devices including printers, display monitors, and mobile phones for wireless web browsing, e-mail, or remote access to corporate networks. Socket's demonstration units incorporated Cambridge Silicon Radio's BlueCore(TM), the world's first chip to combine all the elements of the Bluetooth standard on a single chip. Bluetooth is a worldwide technology specification that uses short-range radio signals to connect multiple intelligent devices that can be up to 10 meters (30 feet) apart, enabling ad hoc cordless connectivity scenarios such as using a Pocket PC or Handheld PC to browse the web via a mobile phone stored in a coat pocket or briefcase. Socket is a member of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), which currently has more than 1500 member companies. For more information on Bluetooth, visit the Bluetooth SIG's web site at www.bluetooth.com. ``A great attraction of using Bluetooth to connect Pocket PCs to mobile Extended Systems to Support SyncML Initiative Company to support SyncML in future generation XTNDConnect data synchronization and management products BOISE, Idaho--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 28, 2000-- Extended Systems (Nasdaq:XTND - news), a leading provider of mobile information management solutions, announced today that it will support the SyncML Initiative being driven by IBM, Lotus, Motorola, Nokia, Palm, Inc., Psion and Starfish Software. The SyncML Initiative is focused on developing and promoting an open industry specification for universal data synchronization of remote data and personal information across multiple networks, platforms and devices. Extended Systems has been providing server, desktop and Internet synchronization solutions since 1997. Because of Extended Systems' success with these solutions and its experience in the global development of Bluetooth (RF), IrDA (infrared) and WAP (wireless application protocol) standard specifications, the company will serve as a key contributor and promoter of the SyncML Initiative. Extended Systems CEO and President Steve Simpson commented on the impact of the initiative, saying that it is important that the industry create a protocol that will enable data management and synchronization over a variety of devices and databases. ``The SyncML Initiative validates the market segment we have been focused on for the past three years,' said Simpson. ``We have a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer in this area, as proven by our strategic relationships with IBM, Microsoft, Ericsson and AnyDay.com, and we are pleased to be one of the first companies to support the SyncML standard.' Simpson said that while SyncML will be included in future generation XTNDConnect data synchronization and management products, Extended Systems will continue to support standards for its current customers and technology partners. RangeStar Redefines Wireless Connectivity with New, Embedded Bluetooth Antenna for Notebook Computers Latest Bluetooth embedded antenna offers significant size advantage and effortless integration into the next generation of wireless computing devices NEW ORLEANS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 28, 2000-- Building on RangeStar's industry-leading advancements in embedded (internal) antenna technology, the company today introduced the industry's smallest Bluetooth embedded antenna. Currently available for Bluetooth adopters, RangeStar's latest 2.4 GHz embedded antenna for notebook computers provides the most reliable, easy-to-use, adjustment free antenna technology for implementation of Bluetooth technology - all without the awkward wires of yesterday! ``Notebook manufacturers will be the driving force behind the initial wave of Bluetooth technology,' said David McCartney, executive vice president for RangeStar Wireless. ``RangeStar's acceptance as the de facto Bluetooth embedded antenna provider allows us to integrate the industry's smallest Bluetooth embeddable antenna into the next generation of micro-computing devices.' The demands of a notebook for integrated wireless connectivity are many. Notebook computers are continuously communicating in a variety of orientations; in a docking station, on a desktop and in the carrying position. RangeStar's industry distinguished antenna design team created this antenna for optimum Bluetooth signal propagation in a host of orientations. RangeStar's new Bluetooth antenna, which provides spherical coverage, is unique in two ways: First, it is the smallest offering to date, providing a significant size advantage to Bluetooth integrators. OEM manufacturers now have the ability to mount Bluetooth embedded antennas onto boards as if they were components. In addition, they are able to fit the antennas into much smaller devices without sacrificing performance. Microsoft Using Systems from Silicon Wave to Develop Software Support for Bluetooth Wireless Technology SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 23, 2000--Silicon Wave Inc. announces today that it has provided Microsoft Corp. with hardware necessary to develop software to enable Bluetooth(TM) wireless technology support. Microsoft is currently using Silicon Wave's Wireless Development Systems (WDS) to develop software support for Bluetooth wireless technology in various Microsoft© Windows© platforms. ``Since becoming a Bluetooth SIG promoter, Microsoft has been aggressive about delivering Bluetooth wireless technology solutions to its Windows application developers,' said Mike Wehrs, group planning manager for the mobile devices division at Microsoft. ``Silicon Wave was first to market with reliable silicon that has enabled us to begin development immediately.' Based on Silicon Wave's SiW015(TM) Radio Modem IC and SiW016(TM) Controller IC, Silicon Wave's development systems provide the physical layer for Bluetooth wireless technology, as well as the microprocessor functions below the Host Controller Interface (HCI). In this development effort, software from Microsoft will interface directly with Silicon Wave's baseband controller protocol stack through the HCI layer. ``Interoperability and applications: these are two very critical steps to Bluetooth's entry into the consumer market,' added Dave Lyon, Silicon Wave's chairman and chief executive officer. ``We're excited that Microsoft has chosen our platform for software development, and are confident that they can deliver on both these steps.' Both companies are supporting interoperability between hardware and software providers to ensure complete end-to-end solutions for the Bluetooth wireless technology. www.siliconwave.com Emkay Innovative Products To Unveil Second Generation Bluetooth Wireless Headset at CeBit 2000 Fair HANNOVER, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 25, 2000--Emkay Innovative Products, a Knowles Electronics company, one of the leading manufacturers of audio transducers and microphone headsets, announces today that it will unveil its second generation Bluetooth Audio Headset at CeBit `00 (Hall 17, Floor 6, Stand No. 2). Emkay's Bluetooth headset is a wireless solution for your computer, telephone, or other communication needs. The headset incorporates a built-in Bluetooth chipset that provides a wireless link between the headset and base station. Also utilized is Emkay's noise canceling microphone, rated the best in the industry. Through the combination of Bluetooth technology and Emkay's acoustics, the computer can be up to 30 feet away while you dictate, chat online, or engage in Internet telephony.

To: Jim Oravetz who wrote (170)	3/31/2000 12:45:00 PM
From: Jim Oravetz	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 322

Development Delays, High Chip Prices Keep Bluetooth Devices Off the Market By DAVID PRINGLE THE WALL STREET JOURNAL INTERACTIVE EDITION Consumers eager to get their hands on Bluetooth devices will have to wait a few more years before the much-hyped wireless technology is widely available. The short-range radio protocol, which will be able to link all kinds of electronic devices wirelessly, is starting to be rolled out, but the high cost of Bluetooth chips may keep deployment from becoming widespread until 2003 or later. Named after a 10th-century Viking king, Bluetooth has the potential to banish cables from the world of computing, with devices such as computers, wireless phones and household appliances using radio signals to communicate. It also could dramatically reduce the time consumers spend in line. For example, it will be possible to link mobile phones wirelessly to gasoline pumps so that when a driver fills up the tank, the cost of the fuel is automatically deducted from a credit-card account through the customer's handset. Bluetooth technology could be used in a similar way for rail fares, cinema tickets, parking fees and other everyday purchases -- making for less hassle for consumers and lower transaction costs for companies. But that potential is still a ways off. It will be at least another three years before Bluetooth chips will be cheap enough to be included in devices such as mobile phones and handheld computers, says Richard Duffy, principal analyst for U.K. consultancy ARC Group. The consensus view is that the chips will have to cost $5 or less before they penetrate the mass market. "The hype was that it was going to be exceptionally cheap this year. ... There was a lot of talk about a $5-per-device sweet spot," Mr. Duffy says. "In reality they will be lucky of they get it down to $100." Delays in Development Swedish mobile-phone maker Telefon AB L.M. Ericsson began the Bluetooth Special Interest Group in 1998 with International Business Machines Corp., Intel Corp., Nokia Corp. and Toshiba Corp. Those five have since been joined by 1,600 other companies, all working to develop a single specification that would allow low-cost, short-range wireless communication and networking among PCs, mobile phones, digital cameras and other devices, as well as connections to the Internet. The first Bluetooth-enabled devices were supposed to be appearing on the market by now, but most product launches have been pushed back to the summer or beyond. Because of that, an anticipated avalanche of advance orders from members of the consortium for Bluetooth-enabled devices just never materialized. Prices will only fall once Bluetooth chips are being mass-produced, but semiconductor manufacturers have yet to receive the large orders that would make such price cuts feasible, partly because of delays in the development of the standard. Furthermore, consumer-electronics companies also have to contend with the upfront cost of developing or licensing software that will allow their devices to use the Bluetooth chips. An Opening for Competitors IBM has licensed TDK Corp. to produce Bluetooth modules for IBM laptops. But the modules will not be available until the third quarter and will cost between $100 and $200. Ronald Sperano, program director of mobile market development for IBM, says it will be 2002 before Bluetooth chips, which contain radio transmitters, are integrated into IBM laptops as a matter of course. "Even next year, the cost is not going to be at a point where it makes sense," he says. The consortium of companies backing Bluetooth had hoped that the technology would be built into hundreds of millions of devices before 2002. But a report by U.S. research firm Cahners now forecasts that it will be 2005 before the technology has that kind of market penetration. For retailers and transportation companies looking to Bluetooth to help them communicate with consumers, the delays are bad news. U.K. supermarket group Safeway PLC is now testing a check-out scanner that can link wirelessly with the store's computer network. But it isn't a Bluetooth device: Safeway's scanners use another radio technology called IEEE 802.11, which is primarily used by businesses to link office computers wirelessly. "Bluetooth wasn't available when that product [the scanner] started its life," says Jeremy Wyman, business-solutions manager at Safeway. Mr. Wyman expects the scanners, which can display personalized marketing messages on their color screens, to be in use in eight stores within six months. Despite the delay, the sheer weight of industry support for Bluetooth should eventually ensure that the standard will become commonplace. The European market for Bluetooth chips will be worth $699.2 million by 2006, compared with $36.7 million this year, according to research firm Frost & Sullivan in London. And in the much-hyped world of mobile communications, Bluetooth is not the first technology to appear late, nor will it likely be the last. By last fall, Wireless Application Protocol was supposed to have had Europeans surfing the Internet on their mobile phones. But handsets equipped with WAP technology, which allows users to view customized Web pages, are only now arriving in volume on the European market. Raising Expectations Ericsson officials said their first Bluetooth-enabled products would be available "very soon." But Ericsson's first Bluetooth product -- a hands-free wireless headset for mobile phones -- won't be launched until some time this summer. Bluetooth was promoted well before it was ready for commercial release so as to give it the time to garner enough support to become an industry standard, says spokesman Peter Boder. "We had to announce it early to create momentum, because we wanted lots of companies involved," he says. To be sure, it is becoming common for developers of new hardware to release specifications early so that software and services companies can begin developing related products in time for the eventual launch. For example, Microsoft Corp. recently unveiled details of its planned X-Box games console 18 months before its planned launch date, in the hope that developers would begin designing games for the new machine. But in this case, Bluetooth may have overdone it. "In some cases it may have been over-hyped because of its potential," says Steve Parker, a product manager at consortium member 3Com Corp. Although Bluetooth technology is largely ready for commercial release, some work still needs to be done on software development, Mr. Parker says. The telecom-equipment manufacturer says it plans to release its first Bluetooth products in the second half of this year as originally intended. Write to David Pringle at david.pringle@wsj.com Jim