In line with Compaq's claim to provide an end-to-end wireless solution, the new range includes the Wireless Pack for GSM/GPRS Networks. Scheduled to ship in late December, the Wireless Pack provides 'always on' Internet access via GPRS, WAP support, and voice communication through the inbuilt speaker and microphone. Dialling is integrated with the Contacts List, and the pack has its own battery to avoid draining that of the iPAQ. The Wireless pack can use up to six GPRS time slots when greater bandwidth is needed.
Also displayed was a prototype POS pack that incorporated a credit card reader, thermal printer and PC Card slot. This device would be ideal for mobile sales and service staff, allowing debit and credit card processing to be integrated with other applications yet handled on the spot. Still under development, a product is expected early next year.
Wireless "unleashes the potential of so many other information technologies," said Gene Blackley, who hosted the event for Compaq Australia. Companies are already deploying mobile wireless, he said, warning the capacity audience that "if you don't, you risk losing a competitive advantage."
Compaq's marketing message stresses the way its partnerships with companies such as Oracle, Siebel, Elcom, Freedom Technologies and Optus can provide customers with complete wireless systems that are integrated with existing IT infrastructure.
The new iPAQ H3700 and H3800 series were announced earlier this month but were on display for the first time at the roadshow. They include 64M of memory, Microsoft's Pocket PC 2002 Permium Edition, and a collection of extra software including ViaVoice. The H3800 series also features a 65,000-colour screen and a Secure Digital (SD) memory slot. The wireless theme continues with the H3870, which sports Bluetooth communications as standard.
