IRVINE, CA, July 20, 2000 (PRIMEZONE) -- (www.ibchannel.com) - In an article published on CBS MarketWatch, Tom Taulli reported: "There are many types of services to allow for high-speed Net access. But they all have limitations. For example, DSL is typically not good in overseas markets. Cable networks are expensive to upgrade and many office buildings do not have cable access. Satellites? Well, the costs are very high. But there is another way: fixed wireless systems. With this method, there is no need for costly cable or fiber networks. Instead, data is broadcast from central offices to base stations using wireless transmissions. For the most part, it is easy and cost-effective to establish these systems. For nations that have inadequate telecom infrastructures, fixed wireless systems have become a great solution."
Leading companies in this space include Usurf America (Amex:UAX), Metricom (Nasdaq:MCOM) and Airspan Networks (Nasdsaq:AIRN).
Usurf America (www.usurf.com), a wireless telecom infrastructure company, provides Wireless Internet access products and other Internet services. The Company's proprietary US.RF Quick-Cell Wireless Internet access system is a turn-key, plug-and-play, system that is capable of delivering customers Internet access at burstable T-1 equivalent speeds, at prices that range from 40% to 60% below those charged for traditional T-1 hardwire Internet access service. Usurf America is making its proprietary "Quick Cell" Wireless Internet System available to qualified CLECs, Telco's, independent telephone companies, DSL providers and Internet Service Providers (ISP's) through several modest revenue sharing relationships.
Providers can offer their customers and others, who cannot get "hardwired" DSL, wireless "DSL" and "T1" broadband for home or office at 40-60% below the market rate. Usurf's "Quick Cell" system affords very attractive margins. Each system operates in the 2.4GHz spectrum, which requires no FCC License. Each system is also easily expandable to cover cities of all sizes and can be launched in less than 48 hours.(For more information visit www.usurf.com and www.ibchannel.com.)
Airspan was founded eight years ago and introduced its first products four years ago. At the heart of these products is CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). This makes the wireless transfer of data wide-range, secure, and resistant to fading. In all, the company has been granted 19 patents on its technology and there are another 19 pending. Airspan Networks prices Wednesday. The lead underwriter is CS First Boston. The company plans to issue 5 million shares in the price range of $9-$11.
Backed by Sprint (NYSE:FON) and Paul Allen's Vulcan Ventures, Metricom designs, provisions, and operates digital networks and services for mobile users. As a leading provider of mobile information access, Metricom offers Ricochet -- the always-on, high-speed, secure solution that delivers on the promise of true mobility.
IBC has an equity position in the companies mentioned herein, please visit our disclaimer at www.ibchannel.com .