DemoMobile 2003 Debuts Wireless Wares

The show, in its fifth year, provides a proving ground for all things wireless, ranging from instant wireless network to Tapwave Inc.'s Zodiac mobile content device, which merges the capabilities of the Palm operating system with high-performance graphics chips suitable for gaming. Some of the technology demonstrations, however, showed just how fragile—and frustrating—wireless connectivity can be. Early in the show, Firetide launched its HotPoint wireless mesh router, which can be used to create an instant wireless network. While the company's goal was to set up a network during the six-minute time slot allotted for a demonstration and then have it act as the official wireless network for DemoMobile, things didn't go as planned. The network eventually went up, although some attendees complained of slow connectivity speeds. Demonstration issues aside—which are to be expected at a technology conference—Firetide's HotPoint router should appeal to enterprises looking to deploy temporary or even permanent wireless networks. Using advanced routing technologies and IEEE 802.11-compliant radios, HotPoints also allow sites to expand the boundaries of a wireless network using standard AC power outlets. A number of vendors showcased solutions that aim to enhance worker productivity. On the hardware side, Brother International Corp., introduced a Bluetooth version of its Mprint micro-printer, a pocket-size wireless printer that supports Windows-based tablets and laptops as well as Pocket PC and Palm-based PDAs. The printer, which measures 4 by 6.4 by 0.7 inches and weighs in at less than 10 ounces, will be available in October. On the software side, Aventail Corp. announced End-Point Control, which lets IT managers provide secure access to corporate resources via any device running a Web browser, including airport kiosks and mobile PDAs.