Option today unveiled its first ExpressCard wireless data card, the GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2. ExpressCard technology is the latest hardware expansion based on the PCI-standard for mobile computers. GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 is currently sampling and initial shipments to leading network operators are scheduled for January 2007.
The GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 is also packed with latest technology. Operating on multiple frequency bands, the GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 is capable of connecting in virtually every country worldwide. The GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 automatically scans networks for HSDPA, UMTS, EDGE and GPRS in order to establish the fastest possible connection. With 7.2 Mbps HSDPA, the GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 delivers true wireless broadband performance, while dual-antennae Advanced Receiver Technology sustains faster and more stable connections over wider coverage areas. For launches before availability of HSDPA 7.2 Mbps networks, the product can optionally be provided with HSDPA 3.6Mbps and boosted to 7.2 Mbps via a simple firmware upgrade. In all cases backward compatibility ensures HSDPA connections at lower data rates of 3.6 Mbps and 1.8 Mbps or UMTS connections up to 384 Kbps.
Jan Callewaert Option’s CEO said in the press release: “The GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 builds on Option’s leadership in 7.2 Mbps HSDPA while anticipating customer demand for more compact devices as notebook vendors embrace the ExpressCard format. With the Windows Vista-capable EXPRESS 7.2, Option has created a device that addresses three key drivers of the portable computing market over the next few years: ExpressCard format, Vista capable and fast wireless connectivity.”
When the EXPRESS 7.2 is inserted into the ExpressCard slot of a laptop, Option’s patented Zero CD technology automatically loads all necessary software and drivers from the data card itself: no software needs to be installed from a CD-ROM. An optional ExpressCard adapter ensures the EXPRESS 7.2 is compatible with legacy PCs having the Type II PC Card format slots.
Product Highlights
• Card Type: ExpressCard/34
• Miniature External Antenna Connection
• Easy installation with the Plug ‘n’ Play zero CD® installation
• High throughput
• HSDPA and UMTS: up to 7.2 Mbps downlink and 384 kbps uplink
• EDGE/GPRS/GSM: up to 247 kbps
• Global connectivity
• Triple band HSDPA/UMTS (850/1900/2100 MHz)
• Quad Band EDGE/GPRS/GSM (850/900/1800/1900 MHz)
• Advanced Receiver Technology, incorporating dual-antenna Receiver Diversity and Equalisation, ensures best possible performance at all times, even at the edges of network coverage.
• Compatible with nearly all modern Desktop and laptop PCs equipped with Microsoft OS (2000, XP, XP Pro and Vista) and MAC OS X.
Option has not yet announced pricing.
More info: http://www.option.com/products/globetrotter_expresscard72.shtml
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