Multi-Tech Systems has introduced its first PCI card to support high-speed EDGE wireless communications. The “MultiModem EDGE” can be used to add quad-band, high speed EDGE cellular communications to a wide range of systems and devices running Linux or Windows, according to the company.

(Click here for larger view of the MultiModem EDGE card)

EDGE (Enhanced Data Rate for GSM Evolution), a faster version of the GSM wireless service, utilizes TDMA multiplexing technology and supports broadband data rates of up to 384 Kbps. Multi-Tech says that EDGE is beginning to be implemented in industrial monitoring and control applications. The technology can therefore be expected to find its way into M2M (machine-to-machine) scenarios, as an alternative to wired connections.

Dan Nelson, VP of National Sales for Multi-Tech Systems, explains, “With the large numbers of servers being shipped every day, there is a corresponding need for communications wherever the server physically ends up. Much of that communications need could involve cellular technology. If a server is deployed with landline network access, there is a potential need for cellular if the network is down as in everyday failures or with natural disasters. And, if the server is deployed where there is no off-premises network or even phone line access, cellular can become vital for any number of tasks.”

Key capabilities and specifications of the MultiModem EDGE cellular wireless modem, as listed by the company, include:

• EDGE (E-GPRS) Class 10
• GPRS Class 12
• Quad-band GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
• Packet data rates up to 240K bps (coding scheme MCS-9, LLC
  layer, 4 time slots)
• Embedded TCP/IP stack
• Circuit-switched data up to 14.4K bps non-transparent mode
• Short Message Services (SMS)
• SMA antenna connector
• LEDs provide operational status

The board is implemented on the Universal PCI design with either 3.3- or 5-volt operation, meets RoHS (Restriction on Hazardous Material) requirements, and has been tested for FCC, PTCRB, and CE compliance, the company said.

From a software compatibility point of view, the board is supported with drivers for Linux, and for Windows 2000, 2003, XP, and Vista, according to Multi-Tech.

Availability

The MultiModem EDGE (MTZPC-E-NV) PCI plug-in card is immediately available, priced at $289, the company said.

 
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