CellNet Data Systems Inc. announced it signed a contract with Puget Sound Energy to expand CellNet’s 700,000-meter network by another 100,000 meters to extend network meter reading to some 85,000 additional natural gas customers and 15,000 electric customers. Under the terms of the agreement, Puget Sound Energy will add up to $5 million in additional financing to its original commitment of $35 million, per an October 1997 agreement.
Omega Research and Development announced it has begun marketing Motorola Inc.’s Command- Link system in the Chicago area. CommandLink is a module car owners can buy to control certain vehicle functions using paging technology. The unit will cost about $200, plus a one-time activation fee of $25 and an annual service fee of $35.
Nortel Networks said its new system software for the DMS-MTX family of digital mobile switching systems can generate new revenues and enhance network operating efficiencies for wireless carriers. The MTX 07 software adds enhanced 911, local number potability, enhanced fraud-prevention capabilities and over-the-air service provisioning to Code Division Multiple Access, Time Division Multiple Access and Advanced Mobile Phone Service carriers.
Sprint Spectrum L.P. and Sanyo Fisher Co. announced Sprint will offer this month nationwide the first Sprint PCS/Sanyo PCS dual-band personal communications services phone, designed for the U.S. market. Co-branded Sanyo and Sprint, the Sanyo SCP-3000 phone weighs 6.5 ounces, is equipped with a standard lithium battery and provides about 2.5 hours of talk time or 60 hours of standby time while in digital mode.
Spyglass Inc. said it created the Windows CE Consulting Practice to aid companies interested in developing products and services for the Microsoft Corp. computing platform. Companies in consumer electronics, telecommunications, office equipment, wireless, cable and direct satellite businesses are expected as clients, the company said. The new unit is part of Spyglass’ expanding Professional Services Group.
