The CDU-550 enables PDAs, mini-tablets, and other mobile handhelds lacking PCMCIA slots to connect to the Internet with broadband-like speeds. Additionally, the resulting wireless connectivity is not restricted to WiFi hot spots, resulting in "true mobility," the company noted.
Key features and specifications of the CDU-550, according to Franklin Wireless, include:
- Radio:
- Band Class 0 -- 800MHz (RX: 869-894MHz TX: 824-849MHz)
- Band Class 1 -- 1900MHz (RX: 1930.0~1989.95, TX: 1850.0-1909.95)
- RX Sensitivity -- Nominal -106 dBm
- Data Options:
- Packet data (1x and EVDO Release 0)
- ASYNC data
- Quick Net Connect
- Data rate:
- 1xRTT -- forward/reverse link up to 153Kbps
- EVDO -- forward link up to 2.4Mbps; reverse link up to 153Kbps
- Hardware Interface -- USB Type A, USB 1.1 and 2.0
- Power:
- requires 5VDC, via USB V-bus
- uses less than 300mA during typical CDMA
- uses less than 4 mA in sleep mode
- Physical specs:
- Dimensions -- 3.5 x 1.6 x .3 inches (88 x 41 x 8 mm)
- Weight -- .74 ounces (21 gm)
- Operating temperature -- -20 - +50 deg. C
In addition to Windows Mobile 5.0, "the most prevalent OS running on most PDAs," the CDU-550 also supports Windows XP, Windows 2000, MAC, and Linux, according to the company.
According to Nick Lim, senior VP of technology and business development at Franklin Wireless, the company is currently testing the CDU-550 with a wide range of Windows Mobile handhelds, and will eventually publish a list of supported devices.
In order to be able to use the CDU-550, the mobile device must have a "USB Host" interface, similar to that provided by virtually all modern PCs and laptops. Additionally, software drivers are required for use with each mobile device, Lam said. The company will develop and qualify drivers for using the CDU-550 with selected devices, but will work with device OEMs (original equipment manufactures) and ODMs (original design manufacturers) to provide support on a case-by-case basis, he added (interested companies are asked to contact Franklin Wireless).
Franklin Wireless products are marketed through OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and distributors, as well as directly to operators and end users, the company says.
The company did not disclose end-user pricing.
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