Notebooks wed wireless tech

Vendors celebrated the union of notebook computers and wireless technology

at the Comdex Fall 2000 trade show in Las Vegas this week.

Such a combination provides the ultimate in mobility: Users are no longer

limited by the need for cables and jacks.

At Comdex, NEC Computers Inc. and Panasonic each showed off models featuring

wireless technology.

NEC recently announced support for two wireless standards for its Versa

notebook line: Wi-Fi, an interoperable wireless local-area network standard,

and Bluetooth, a global standard that enables devices to communicate with

one another via a secure radio frequency.

"Integrating Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies into our notebooks...highlights

our commitment to the wireless arena by providing leading solutions for

mobile users who need constant connectivity," said Ken Yamamoto, director

of product development for NEC Computers.

Panasonic made its mobile wireless notebook rugged, too, with the announcement

of an addition to its Toughbook line of ruggedized notebooks. The new Toughbook

72 offers the usual magnesium alloy case and gel-mounted hard drive, but

adds the advantage of wireless capability.