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It's not often that the entire computer industry unites behind a standard. But that's exactly what has happened with infrared (IR) data transmission technology. More than 130 companies, including Compaq, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Intel, Microsoft and Sun Micro-systems, have signed on with the Infrared Data Association's (IrDA's) Serial InfraRed (SIR) specification. Along with such consumer electronics behemoths as Sony and Nokia, they anticipate a future where computers, cash machines, telephones and other "appliances" can easily exchange information. They favor an IR wireless connection because it's inexpensive, easy to use and secure.
That vision will take years to reach fruition, of course. VARs, however, shouldn't neglect the many IR-enabled computers, printers, network connectors and other products that are already on the market. Those types of machines offer a simple, stress-free way to add polish-and margin-to otherwise humdrum solutions.
IrDA member Extended Systems Inc. is pushing the envelope with JetEye Net Plus, the first IR connector for token ring networks, and the first that allows simultaneous access to a LAN and a local printer. We asked VAR beta testers Michael Canton of Dataflex Corp. and Steve Piper of Inacomp Computer Centers what they thought of it. Canton and Piper say the product is terrific and that it fills an important customer need.
VARs Push the Limits
According to Mark Willnerd, Extended Systems' infrared product manager, the main design goal for JetEye was providing "extreme" ease of use. The VARs say that's on target. "We're selling to mobile professionals, salespeople and senior executives," says Canton. "If they think your technology is too difficult, they'll reject it-period." He and Piper see JetEye as a replacement for a whole range...