RangeStar Redefines Wireless Connectivity with New, Embedded Bluetooth Antenna for Notebook Computers - Company Business and Marketing

Edge: Work-Group Computing Report, March 6, 2000

Building on RangeStar's industry-leading advancements in embedded (internal) antenna technology, the company Monday introduced the industry's smallest Bluetooth embedded antenna. Currently available for Bluetooth adopters, RangeStar's latest 2.4 GHz embedded antenna for notebook computers provides the most reliable, easy-to-use, adjustment free antenna technology for implementation of Bluetooth technology - all without the awkward wires of yesterday!

"Notebook manufacturers will be the driving force behind the initial wave of Bluetooth technology," said David McCartney, executive vice president for RangeStar Wireless. "RangeStar's acceptance as the de facto Bluetooth embedded antenna provider allows us to integrate the industry's smallest Bluetooth embeddable antenna into the next generation of micro-computing devices."

The demands of a notebook for integrated wireless connectivity are many. Notebook computers are continuously communicating in a variety of orientations; in a docking station, on a desktop and in the carrying position. RangeStar's industry distinguished antenna design team created this antenna for optimum Bluetooth signal propagation in a host of orientations.

RangeStar's new Bluetooth antenna, which provides spherical coverage, is unique in two ways: First, it is the smallest offering to date, providing a significant size advantage to Bluetooth integrators. OEM manufacturers now have the ability to mount Bluetooth embedded antennas onto boards as if they were components. In addition, they are able to fit the antennas into much smaller devices without sacrificing performance.

Second, RangeStar's new antenna provides both vertical and horizontal polarization when installed on a horizontal plane, making it ideal for integration into notebook computing devices. In other words, unlike the antennas traditionally used in wireless phones, which are generally vertical during use, RangeStar's embedded antenna can be placed horizontally within a device and produce a vertical or horizontal radiation pattern.

RangeStar Wireless offers a Total Bluetooth Solution that will enable the simplification of interaction between people as well as wireless devices. RangeStar's Total Bluetooth Solution is the only program in the wireless industry offering design, integration, testing and production of Bluetooth technology and devices. In addition, the company's engineering team will guide the product through the cumbersome regulatory and qualification process.

RangeStar's family of Bluetooth embedded antennas is commercially available today. Third-party manufacturers interested in any of RangeStar's leading antennas should contact RangeStar directly.

Bluetooth technology will enable users to connect their mobile computers, digital cellular phones, handheld devices, network access points and other mobile devices via wireless short-range radio links unimpeded by line-of-sight restrictions. Eliminating the need for proprietary cables to connect devices, Bluetooth technology will increase the ease and breadth of wireless connectivity. The Bluetooth technology is an open standard jointly developed by leading industry manufacturers. More information can be found at www.bluetooth.com.

RangeStar Wireless is the global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of innovative, high performance embedded antennas for the wireless communications markets. Founded in 1995, the company is recognized for its technological innovation and consistently superior embedded antenna products, conceived by a world-renowned staff of antenna design engineers. RangeStar maintains offices in London, Seoul, Tokyo and Paris with worldwide headquarters at 9565 Soquel Drive; Aptos, CA 95003, US; (888) 647-7100/(831) 661-4200 (phone); (888) 647-7101/(831) 661-4201 (fax). On the Web, go to www.rangestar.com.