SkyTel Corp has announced SkyCard, a PCMCIA II-compliant wireless messaging board and Windows 3.1-based software bundle that is said to integrate data received wirelessly via the SkyTel network into users’ computer applications. The SkyCard will enable users to channel incoming information in three ways; with messages either being viewed through an integrated in-box; forwarded to designated folders; or routed directly to applications or files such as spreadsheets, databases and word processing documents without user intervention. SkyCard ships with two ready-made templates: a Microsoft Corp Excel spreadsheet template, which integrates the company’s SkyQuote stock-tracking information, displaying the results graphically; and a Word template that transforms the company’s news service, SkyNews, into a mini-newspaper. The company says a developer kit will enable in-house and custom developers to build on this base to create bespoke forms and documents. Users will be able to send wireless messages directly via modem, via San Jose, California-based SkyTel’s electronic mail connections, or using SkyTel’s operator-assisted 800 number, says the company. For incoming information, they will be able to receive notification based on sender and subject or postcard-length messages, in both cases through a range of public and private electronic mail services. A SkyTel gateway for Lotus Development Corp Notes is also included, enabling Notes users to receive databases and other Notes-generated information wirelessly. The board features 128Kb of memory and is powered by a single AAA battery, said to last up to 30 days. It will be available in several PCMCIA forms with the initial offering based on Motorola Inc’s Newscard. Further versions are planned for later this year. The card is shipping now for $250.
