Trucking Technology Alert - Oct. 1
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Both the online report and e-mail are sponsored by @Track Communications, a supplier of wireless communications and dispatch services.
Today's Technology Headlines:
- NTT DoCoMo to Introduce New Services
- PC-EPhone Offers New Wireless Device
- SDR Could Aid Wireless Carriers
- Dunkin' Donuts Hires Tracking Firm
NTT DoCoMo to Introduce New Services
In Japan, the country's largest cell phone operator, NTT DoCoMo, will shortly introduce the world's first third-generation mobile phone network, thereby hoping to stymie skeptics and strengthen its shaky hold on Japan's $70 billion wireless market.The new service, which will initially only be available in the metropolitan Tokyo region, promises Internet connections up to 40 times faster than current phones so users can download video and audio files onto their devices. NTT DoCoMo intends to spend approximately $8.4 billion every year for the next three years to expand the service across Japan. The company does not expect to earn a profit on the service for at least three years.
PC-EPhone Offers New Wireless Device
San Diego-based PC-EPhone is bringing out a new wireless device by the same name that not only provides users with real access to the Internet, but is also acts as a versatile phone and provides users with the synchronizing power of a real computer.Instead of attempting to place an Internet connection in a phone, the company inserted a phone into a tiny portable computer. The PC-EPhone operates on the universal Windows operating system, CE version. An optional handset, which is linked using Bluetooth wireless technology, enables users to work up to 30 feet from the PC-EPhone.
According to David Meltzer, president of PC-EPhone, future models could also have GSM, providing users with worldwide phoning ability. A slot in the device allow the insertion of a wire-line modem or network card. Meltzer says the device can basically do whatever a laptop computer can do, and he says the device can even show video when it is equipped with a high-capacity minidrive. The new devices are expected to come on the market later this year.
I>Investor's Business Daily (09/28/01)
SDR Could Aid Wireless Carriers
Software-defined radio (SDR) could reshape the face of wireless communications by making cellular devices and networks programmable.For instance, cell phone owners could upgrade their devices by downloading software off the Internet. However, most wireless carriers have been reluctant to adopt SDR thus far. To encourage the use of SDR, the Federal Communication Commission released new guidelines this month for using the technology, which cut down requirements for installing the technology in wireless networks. SDR provides a number of advantages, including expanding the number of radio frequencies available for transmitting voice and data services, over existing technologies.
In addition, industry observers note that SDR-enabled cell phones would allow subscribers to roam outside their usual service area. However, Vodafone spokesman Jeffrey Nelson said it remains unclear if SCR will become a long standing solution and notes that no carrier has committed to using the technology. Meanwhile, Cingular Wireless' director of wireless standards, Stephen Blust, predicts that SDR equipment will begin appearing in next-generation networks in 2004 or 2005.
I>Investor's Business Daily (09/28/01) P. A15; Krause, Reinhardt
Dunkin' Donuts Hires Tracking Firm
The world's largest coffee and baked goods chain, Dunkin' Donuts recently hired AirIQ to track vehicles that deliver baking ingredients to 362 franchisees throughout the South.AirIQ will enable the donut firm to watch its fleet in real-time, ensuring deliveries to its franchisees are made on-time. Tractor-trailers, straight-trucks, dry vans, and refrigerated trailers will be outfitted with traceable "black boxes," which will also monitor any problems with the vehicles. AirIQ was also selected by Toronto-based Thrifty Canada to install vehicle-tracking systems in high-quality rental cars in Thrift's fleet.
I>Toronto Star (09/26/01) P. E5; Hamilton, Tyler
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