Mobile Unified Communications Featured Article

Enterprises need a free hand when they launch services. They need assurance that they have the flexibility to change network providers or use preferred mobile operators in order to make business strategies work, but how practical is this? Is a seamless change possible? Is such adaptable hardware available?

Sierra Wireless (News - Alert) says yes, advocating the use of its newly introduced  AirPrime SL9090 – a new, multimode product that gives device manufacturers the ability to operate on networks that use EDGE, HSDPA, HSPA+ and EV-DO networks cellular standards with a single product design.

“With the AirPrime SL9090, Sierra Wireless is early-to-market with a multimode, compact module that works on both HSPA+ and EV-DO networks, providing the flexibility our customers need in building new devices,” noted Didier Dutronc, senior vice president, M2M embedded solutions.

The AirPrime SL9090 modules are compact and ruggedized and have been designed for use in fixed or mobile M2M deployments across a wide spectrum of industry. It is a perfect fit for use in challenging environments with extreme temperatures, and its dual microphone design makes it ideal for use in noisy industrial settings.

He also indicated that this would benefit device manufacturers as they didn't have to commit to a single network standard and also end customers, who could freely choose their network providers according to their budget needs.

In addition, developers can create innovative M2M apps while OEMs are provided with an efficient, flexible and scalable solution.

The North American market, where both network technologies are used, will specially benefit from the multimode product, which is slated for commercial release in the Q4 2012.

Furthermore, Sierra Wireless will be shipping Air Prime SL9090 with embedded software images specific to each mobile operator. Customers can also make their choice according to their individual requirements.

According to Sierra Wireless, the AirLink GX440 rugged wireless gateway, which is now available for the AT&T (News - Alert) 4G LTE network, delivers the higher bandwidth required by applications including wireless video surveillance, multi data-stream wireless connections to branch locations, or mobile office applications for public safety and field service activities.

Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO West 2012, taking place Oct. 2-5, in Austin, TX.  Stay in touch with everything happening at ITEXPO (News - Alert). Follow us on Twitter.