Not content with targeting its range of wireless modems at the Ardis radio network, Motorola Inc has added the Mobitex protocol to enable them to be used with RAM Mobile Data’s competing networks. The RPM400i and RPM405i are designed to be incorporated into laptop and notebook computers, and they have been adopted by Poqet Computer Corp for its Palmtop Communicating Computer, and by Psion Plc, Telxon Corp and Itron Inc for their handheld systems. The enhancement means that Motorola can target Mobitex network users – putting the products into direct competition with the Mobidem, LM Ericsson Telefon AB’s comparable product for Mobitex. The protocol has been added via the MC56156 Digital Signal Processor, which allows the modem to be protocol agile and capable of supporting the four existing Motorola data radio link protocols as well as Mobitex. Also, L M Ericsson Telefon AB cannot make a tit-for-tat move by providing Ardis compatibility since the Ardis protocols are not open; Ericsson would not say what it would do if they were to be opened.
