Trucking Technology Report - April 6
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Both the online report and e-mail are sponsored by @Track Communications, a supplier of wireless communications and dispatch services.
Today's Technology Headlines:
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Office Depot Launches Wireless Shipping
In an effort to gain a competitive edge, Office Depot has launched a wireless shipping system called the Signature Tracking and Reporting System (OD STAR), similar to systems already used by FedEx and UPS.
Data collected through the PDA, including delivery e-signatures are communicated to the back-office system through a Cingular Wireless network package. The OD STAR enables employees and customers to track products and verify deliveries through the Office Depot Web site. Computerworld; Brewin, Bob
Cingular Eases High-Speed Transmissions
ingular Wireless recently announced plans to offer General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) [an emerging technology standard for high-speed transmission over networks] before the end of this year.
Cingular's move calls for GPRS to be deployed over its existing networks, which provide coverage on the West Coast and southeastern seaboard. The company did not unveil its intentions for its remaining networks.
According to Cingular's vice president of technology and product development, Kris Rine, the company is continuing to evaluate its options, but says it plans to skip interim technologies and go straight to high-speed services. Cingluar plans to deploy GPRS over its networks in California, Washington, Nevada, North and South Carolina, eastern Tennessee, and Georgia. Telephony (03/26/01); Fitchard, Kevin
Two-way Wireless Takes Off With Carriers
Two-way wireless messaging services have taken off in places where operators allow customers to send messages via their Global Standard for Mobile (GSM) [a digital communication technology used by some carriers to provide personal communications services] cell phones.Most service providers charge customers over 10 cents per message, leading to substantial revenues. Forrester Research reports that the typical subscriber is expected to spend roughly $52 yearly on short messaging, comprising about 11% of a subscriber's yearly revenue. teledotcom (03/26/01); Collins, Jonathan
Handheld Devices Unveil Slots for Add-Ons
Palm, Handspring, and Compaq Computer have unveiled handheld devices with slots to connect add-on modules. These modules can offer a wide range of new functions including wireless calling and digital camera applications.Handspring's new Visor Edge model is the most prominent of the new devices. Visor Edge is designed with a detachable slot to connect an array of application and hardware modules. Handspring offers over 50 Springboard modules for the unit through its Internet site.
The modules allow users to add applications when needed and trim down the size of the device for easy portability. The use of modules also leaves more room in a device's on-board memory. eWeek (03/26/01); Popovich, Ken
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