Sign in Subscribe
Software

HP and Microsoft Join Forces for Infrared Communications

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Hewlett-Packard Co. and Microsoft Corp. are working together to create infrared communications software that will enable wireless communications between PCs, printers, and other peripheral products without the need for cables or accessories. This collaboration is aimed at addressing the growing demand for low-cost wireless solutions, particularly for mobile users. The software is being designed for PCs and peripherals with IrDA-compliant infrared ports, which will utilize the Windows95 operating system upgrade expected in early 1995. The move is seen as a significant step towards making PCs more accessible and user-friendly for mobile users.

Key Takeaways:

  • HP and Microsoft are jointly developing infrared communications software to enable wireless communications between PCs, printers, and peripherals.
  • The software is designed for PCs and peripherals with IrDA-compliant infrared ports, which will use the Windows95 operating system upgrade.
  • The IrDA standards group has over 90 members, including HP and Microsoft.
  • The goal of the collaboration is to make using PCs away from the desk easier and more powerful for everyone.
  • HP's Brad Chase, general manager for Microsoft's personal systems group, and Richard Watts, say the software will enable mobile users to perform functions like file transfers, printing, and sharing information between devices.
  • HP already includes an infrared interface in its handheld, desktop, and mobile PCs, and has licensed its serial port infrared interface to other companies.
  • Andy Seybold, editor of Outlook on Mobile Computing, sees infrared communications as the best solution to meet the needs of mobile PC users.

Statistics:

  • Over 90 companies, including HP and Microsoft, are members of the IrDA standards group.
  • Windows95 operating system upgrade is expected in early 1995.
  • HP includes an infrared interface in its handheld, desktop, and mobile PCs.
  • Infrared interoperability will give mobile users the ability to perform "point-and-shoot" file transfers and use printers without cables or accessories.

Sources:

  • "HP and Microsoft Team on Infrared Communications" - no specific publication or date mentioned.
  • HP and Microsoft press release - no specific publication or date mentioned.
  • IrDA President Mike Watson, cited in an unnamed publication.
  • Andy Seybold, editor of Outlook on Mobile Computing, cited in an unnamed publication.

Read more