Hutchison Mobile Data Ltd is to launch its digital mobile data network on May 30, transmitting two-way data between portable machines and host computers in the M25 area. The network transmits data at 4,800bps using packet switching – rather than the circuit switching method used in data over cellular applications. Hutchison claims that the packet switching digital radio modem will give it an edge over cellular rivals, saying it has better data control and error correction. Sourced from Motorola Inc, the radio modem will attach to any terminal with a serial interface port, although there are plans to build it in to some machines. Unlike cellular modems, which use dialup technology, the radio modem will be preset to relay data to a dedicated point, or, via function keys, several different destinations. Hutchison has established a network of base stations to which portable computers fitted with a modem can automatically lock-on as they move around. The data is then transmitted from the local base stations to regional area communications controllers, which then connect to the public telephone network to carry the message on the final leg of its journey. Hutchison’s partners in the enterprise are Poqet Computer Corp, Grid Systems Inc and Telxon Ltd which act as value added resellers and will all provide terminals to access the network by the May 30 launch. Poqet says the market for mobile data is sizeable. In the area it is intending to exploit, field workers, it believes there are at least 2m workers, 15% to 20% of which will want to take advantage of the network immediately. Hutchison is planning to expand the service nationwide over time, and, eventually, to the rest of Europe.
