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Abstract
Challenging the mobile data terminal (MDT) in both cost and function, the mobile personal computer (PC) is a new class of microcomputer whose use in radio can be traced to the evolution of the office PC. Because of the unique hardware and proprietary software languages involved, MDT services are only available from a few specialists, whereas many PC resources are available that permit customized applications. Since most organizations have PCs, there is familiarity with applications, and support personnel are in place. While the MDT approach is oriented toward organizations with many mobile units, the mobile PC approach is geared toward a larger population of users. Being intelligent, the mobile PC can preprocess information, which increases traffic capacity. From another viewpoint, an MDT advocate says that MDTs increase efficiency of airtime. Utilizing data, messages can be packaged and transmitted in short bursts. MDTs are a proven product that provides the efficiency of a radio network. MDTs will continue to meet user specifications.