BLUETOOTH MODULE
Mike: The module’s back is flush with the
back of the Visor. A tombstone-like antenna rises from the top, adding perhaps a
half inch to the height of the Visor. I am not a cellphone user; hated using
even a beeper. I still do not understand why I would want or need Bluetooth. I
was told about wireless HotSyncing and communicating with other Bluetoothed
Visors. This paragraph is here mainly for people who are interested in
Bluetooth. It exists for the Visor. Go to http://www.widcomm.com
for info about this Springboard module.
Marcus: Bluetooth is an exciting
technology that one day will replace today’s infrared beam. Bluetooth enabled
devices uses radio waves to communicate with each other - up to 30 ft apart
according to Justin Nguyen, VP at Widcomm Inc ( I have not been able to confirm
Mike’s 150 ft distance). For longer distances a repeater or base network of
Bluetooth hubs are required.
Bluetooth is quite fast - up to 1MBs. At Internet World Widcomm demonstrated
a chat program, very much like AOL instant messenger, where two separate Visor
users could chat with each other wirelessly. The Bluetooth software can
"hijack" the Visor’s communication system - rerouting all data headed
for the serial/USB/IR port to the Bluetooth module. This feature guarantees that
all current Palm software will work with Bluetooth.
QUO
VADIS HANDYGPS
Marcus: Six months in development, the
HandyGPS is almost ready to be released. It will be introduced during November,
carrying a price tag of $139.99. Quo Vadis mapping system is stored in Flash ROM
on the Springboard, enabling street-level mapping with GPS precision. The map
data itself, small files stored in the Visor’s internal memory, are available
for all of US territory and will be downloadable over the web. International
versions are in the works.
The software does not yet offer a "routing" function - that is,
point to point driving instructions. "We don’t want to compete with car
navigation systems, said Marco Frigino, President of MarcoSoft.
SIX-PACK MODULE
Mike: Innogear displayed a prototype Springboard module that floored me. It is tentatively called the "Six
Pack." It contains, 1) Flashing Alarm Light, 2) Vibrating Alarm,3) Cell
Phone Modem, 4) Landline Modem (33-point-whatever is the target), 5)Voice
Recorder, 6) EIGHT MEGS OF FLASH RAM! All of this in a module that is flush with
the Visor back and which rises about an eighth of an inch from the top (if that;
what rises is the light for the alarm!). The RJ-11 jack is on the back of the
module and pops open on a slant. This will be a Must Get item, I believe.
Even more Springboards >>
