HP and Microsoft Collaborate on Infrared Communications Solution

Developing an infrared communications solution, HP and Microsoft aim to address the growing need for low-cost, wireless communication between PCs and printers and other peripheral products. The collaboration focuses on creating a software solution for PCs and peripherals with IrDA-compliant infrared ports, utilizing Microsoft's Windows 95 operating system. The goal is to enable users to transfer files, print, and communicate without requiring cables or accessories. Industry experts believe that infrared technology holds the key to delivering hassle-free, low-cost, and convenient communication solutions for mobile PC users.

Key Takeaways:

• HP and Microsoft are developing an infrared communications solution to address the need for low-cost, wireless communication between PCs and printers and other peripheral products.
• The software solution will be designed for PCs and peripherals with IrDA-compliant infrared ports that use Microsoft's Windows 95 operating system.
• The IrDA, with over 90 members, including HP and Microsoft, has defined an industry standard for infrared communications to ensure interoperability between devices, regardless of product type or brand.
• HP will introduce a variety of IrDA-compliant products, including desktop PCs, mobile computers, printers, and other peripherals, as part of its Windows 95 Mobile Services.
• The collaboration with HP ensures that full-featured, IR-based connectivity will be available to every Windows 95 user, according to Brad Chase, general manager of Microsoft's Personal Systems Group.
• Infrared communication offers a "point-and-shoot" file transfer, printing, and other communication capabilities without requiring cables or accessories.

Statistics:

• The IrDA, a non-profit organization, has over 90 members, including HP and Microsoft.
• HP has 98,400 employees and had revenues of $25 billion in its 1994 fiscal year.
• The IrDA's President, Mike Watson, stated that the work conducted by HP and Microsoft will help motivate critical mass of IrDA-compliant devices in 1995.
• About 90% of IrDA members have agreed to make their products IrDA-compliant.

Sources:

• Hewlett-Packard Company and Microsoft Corp. (1994, Dec. 12). HP and Microsoft Team Up to Develop Infrared Communications Solution. Business Wire.
• Outlook on Mobile Computing, edited by Andy Seybold, as quoted in the Business Wire article.