Transceiver uses RF232(TM) transparent protocol.

Press Release Summary:




AC4490 900 MHz spread spectrum transceiver interfaces via serial TTL level connection to provide transparent, bi-directional wireless communication in point-to-point and point-to-multipoint, client/server, or peer-to-peer networks. Using FHSS technology, module provides interference rejection, enables co-located system operation, and maintains data integrity. With data rate to 115.2 Kbps, it offers variable output power from 5-500 mW and adjustable receiver sensitivity from -96 dB.



Original Press Release:



900MHz RF Module Smashes Price Point and Sets a New Standard In Affordable Wireless



Lenexa, Kansas - March 14, 2003 - AeroComm, Inc., leading developer of complete wireless solutions for local industrial and commercial applications, announces the immediate availability of its feature-enhanced 900MHz spread spectrum transceiver-at less than half the price of similarly specified modules on the market.

Aimed at OEMs producing equipment for the Americas, the new 900MHz AC4490 module interfaces via serial TTL level connection, providing transparent bi-directional wireless communication in point-to-point and point-to-multipoint, client/server or peer-to-peer networks using AeroComm's proprietary RF232(TM) transparent protocol.

Typical low-cost radios provide only RF transmission; they do not contain protocol to manage "over the air" issues such as how to overcome interference and multipath problems, detect data errors, address messages to individual radios, secure transmissions from eavesdropping, and verify link quality. RF232 handles these issues with the same robust protocol found in radios costing hundreds of dollars.

RF232 allows AC4490 modules to be used as direct cable replacements, requiring no special host software for communication. Communications include both system and configuration data. All frequency hopping, synchronization, and RF system data transmission/reception is performed by the transceiver. Plus, AC4490s feature a number of on-the-fly control commands, providing OEMs with a very versatile interface for any application.

Using field-proven FHSS technology - which needs no additional FCC licensing - 900MHz AC4490s provide interference rejection, enable co-located system operation, increase output power, and maintain data integrity. Product enhancements include:

o Highest data rate currently available in a 900 MHz radio: Up to 115.2 Kbps.

o Smallest form factor on the market: 1.65 x 1.9 inches, ideal for portable applications.

o Variable output power, from 5mW to 500mW.

o Adjustable receiver sensitivity from -96dB, depending on data throughput.

o Socket-compatible with AeroComm's 2.4GHz AC4424 for network interchangeability.

o Adapts across the entire -40C to +80C industrial temperature range.

o Various antenna options, including integrated, external or soldered pad.

o (1) A/D input line; (1) A/D output line.

o Lowest cost 900 MHz transceiver: Less than $30 in quantities of 10k.

"OEMs are searching for low-cost communication alternatives that replace wires or existing wireless (such as infrared, serial/wired, memory card download, or other less sophisticated options)," said Jim O'Callaghan, AeroComm's Vice President of OEM Sales. "Factors driving this need include the costs associated with installation, maintenance, relocation, convenience, and market acceptance.

"AeroComm has designed AC4490 to help these manufacturers give their cost-sensitive systems robust wireless capability - fast - with little or no RF experience."

Typical applications for AC4490 modules include vending machines, automated meter reading, gaming, electronic signs and scoreboards, wheel alignment, pool and spa control, point of sale, fleet management, lighting control and security. Visit www.aerocomm.com/oem/applications.htm for a list of both industrial and commercial uses of 900MHz wireless.

AC4490 is approved for use in portable, mobile and fixed applications in the US, Canada, Australia and South America. To comply with additional markets, AC4490 is software- and hardware-compatible with AeroComm's 2.4GHz AC4424. This enables OEMs to design once and subsequently interchange 900MHz or 2.4GHz radios to increase performance and/or expand into new markets. The modules will be available from AeroComm, Avnet, and premier distributors worldwide. Developer tools and engineering support back every AeroComm RF product.

About AeroComm

Formed in 1990, AeroComm was the first manufacturer to gain FCC approval for 2.4 GHz spread spectrum transceivers. Since then, AeroComm has become the leading developer of high-performance, cost-effective 2.4 GHz FHSS solutions for OEMs. The company's proprietary technology enables OEMs to integrate wireless communication into their systems faster, more reliably and at lower total cost than to design internally. The ConnexRF line of standard transceivers, custom solutions, and development tools was designed to help OEMs replace bulky, costly wiring in applications where low cost, high reliability and fast data throughput are essential. An award-winning line of consumer/commercial packaged transceivers (GoPrint(TM), ConnexLink(TM) and ConnexModem(TM)) are also available. For more information visit the company online: www.aerocomm.com.

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