Phone space race has fortune at stake

Article Abstract:

A variety of companies and consortia are racing to launch hugely expensive satellite services that would beam signals to individuals carrying portable computers, phones and pagers almost anywhere on the planet. These planned systems face tough competition from the cellular services industry and existing international satellite networks such as Inmarsat. Motorola Inc has already invested $100 million in its Iridium telephone-satellite project and expects a final cost of $3.37 billion. Iridium would be the first satellite system to dispense entirely with ground stations. Analysts see a variety of reasons not to invest in the fledgling systems, including continuing high capital costs and the high costs of the service.

Semiconductors and related devices, Planning, Satellite communications, Capital investments, Motorola Inc., Satellite communications services industry, New Product, Outlook, Strategic Planning, Market Analysis, Capital Investment, Iridium (Telecommunications service)

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Spectrum presses computer firms for licensing pacts

Article Abstract:

Spectrum Information Technologies Inc, the holder of various patents for hardware and software that allows laptop computers to send data over cellular phone networks, is aggressively seeking licensing agreements with major computer and communications companies. Peter Caserta, Spectrum president, admits that the company chose to sign up as many customers for its pioneering technology over an eight-year period rather than secure royalties or licensing fees. Spectrum has filed suit against Microcom Inc for patent infringement. It has also secured a letter of intent from Data Race Inc, a major modem supplier, to license Spectrum technology.

Holding companies, not elsewhere classified, Computer networks, Telecommunications equipment, Contracts, Licensing agreements, Communications Equipment, Licensing, Patent, Spectrum Information Technologies Inc.

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