SpotWave plans new vehicle-based system for next year
SpotWave Wireless Inc., Ottawa, is developing a vehicle-based wireless signal extension system that it plans to release sometime next year, Report on Wireless has learned. Last month, the company unveiled its first product, the SpotCell 100, which extends cell phone signals into dead spots of buildings (RoW, Oct. 2/01). Steve Adams, VP of marketing for the start-up, told Report on Wireless at Communications 2001 in Toronto last week, that the vehicle-based system is still on the development table but should be announced officially within the next six to eight months. Adams also revealed plans on the vehicle product that will enable, among other things, children to play games on wireless devices while in the back seat. Adams explained to Report on Wireless that the problem with catching a stable RF signal in a vehicle isn’t because it is moving, it’s because the metal contained in the vehicle makes it difficult to establish a stable connection. He says that a multitude of tiny antennas will be placed throughout the vehicle to maintain a constant connection to the wireless network. Adams adds that sales of its first product are going well. One of the country’s national wireless operators is a major customer, but he declined to reveal the name.