Today at the TECHXNY conference, Intel Corporation announced a new high-speed, wireless LAN module for the Palm(1) m500 series handheld devices. With the new module, Intel provides the industry's first family of wireless connections for the leading handheld devices. Xircom, an Intel company, developed the module.
According to Gartner Group, the handheld device market is expected to grow by about 48 percent by 2004, increasing the demand for wireless connectivity options for handheld devices.(2)
"With the explosive growth in the number of mobile workers, organizations are challenged to provide the same level of network access for handheld devices as for desktop and mobile PCs," said Sam Bass, general manager of the Xircom Mobile Communications Division at Intel. "Intel helped design and lay the building blocks for Ethernet, and as Ethernet continues to expand into new areas, such as wireless LANs, we will work closely with our customers to deliver products that enhance mobile freedom."
The Xircom(R) Wireless LAN Module for the Palm m500 series handheld devices is the first WLAN product for the Palm m500 series. The module snaps onto the back of the handheld device and utilizes plug-and-play software for quick installation. Providing Palm m500 series users with high-speed, wireless access to the Internet, e-mail or data stored on the network, the new module can also establish wireless peer-to-peer connections with other WLAN devices.
"Intel and Palm are bringing mobility to a new level for Palm m500 customers," said Barry Cottle, chief Internet officer at Palm, Inc. "The Xircom Wireless LAN Module will greatly expand the functionality of the Palm m500 series by offering users the flexibility to move freely throughout an office or corporate campus with real-time information access."
The new Palm module is based on Cisco Systems, Inc.(1) WLAN technology and joins Intel's existing line of WLAN products for handheld devices, including products for the HandSpring(1) Visor handheld and the Compaq(1) iPAQ. With the introduction of the module, Intel becomes the only company in the industry to offer 802.11b connectivity products for the leading handheld platforms.
The Xircom(R) Wireless LAN Module for the Palm m500 series handheld devices will be available in July for the suggested price of $299. The module will be available through value-added resellers (VARs), direct marketers, e-tailers, system integrators and online at the ShopXircom(SM) store.
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