Two years after the launch of its popular iPaq Pocket PC series, Compaq Computer is finally introducing a range of accessories which provide wireless connectivity options.
They include a GPRS (general packet radio services) jacket that lets the iPaq make voice calls and e-mail or browse the Web.
The iPaq Wireless Pack works with GSM (global system for mobile communications) and GPRS networks and slots into the iPaq hand-held like a sleeve, turning the Pocket PC into a tri-band phone with wireless Internet access, WAP (wireless application protocol) browsing, e-mail and SMS (short message service).
Many similar wireless solutions have long been available on the market. Hutchison Telecommunications has been offering a PC card product called the Freewing which gives 64 kilobits per second of wireless access to the iPaq via its CDMA (code division multiple access) network. In March, HK CSL introduced United States-based Novatel Wireless's Merlin GPRS PC card.
Compaq says the iPAQ Wireless Pack provides faster Internet connection than most GPRS PC cards because it has four channels to download and two channels to upload information. The iPAQ Wireless Pack is priced at HK$3,120 and is available through CSL.
Greater China iPaq and portable product director Franklin Sze said: 'Today's mobile workers are constantly looking for new ways to increase their productivity and flexibility for on-the-go computing and communicating. These new products allow our customers to make the most out of their iPaq Pocket PC by giving them added battery life and more creative expansion solutions.'
Although Palm still sells far more hand-helds than Compaq, iPaq sales have grown quickly since the device was introduced two years ago.