Northern Telecom Ltd used CeBit to launch its Companion CT2 wireless telephone system, and has signed distribution agreements in Holland, Sweden, the UK and Germany. Companion is claimed to be the first complete system to conform fully to the CT2 Common Air Interface CAI standard. It comprises lightweight handsets, radio base stations and a wireless controller that incorporates the mobility software. The system operates in the 864MHz to 868MHz band, rather than the public CT2 wavelength of 900MHz. As such, it is targeted at private use within organisations. The CT2 wavelength is open, in that any approved equipment can use it, without the need to obtain a licence. Two models are available: the Companion 100, a wireless controller supporting up to 80 portable phones behind an existing telephone system, and the Companion 10, a stand-alone system that supports up to 32 portables. Radio diagnostic and deployment tools are also available. The company has demonstrated mobile voice and data services capable of roaming and hands-off operation. Applications include mobile facsimile, data sharing and transfer and remote computer access. Companion will be distributed in Holland by Koninklijke PTT Telecom Nederland NV, Sweden’s Televerket and by British Telecommunications Plc from this year. No word on the German market.
