DUSSELDORF, Germany-Vodafone Germany began UMTS tests for business customers using data cards for PCs. The operator plans to launch commercial third-generation service next year.
Vodafone said the participants of the trial include large corporate groups and tradesmen’s businesses. The Vodafone Mobile Connect Card UMTS is used in a notebook PC and offers data download speeds at up to 384 kilobits per second. The data card will be pre-configured for access to the Internet and intranets, and users can also use it for short message service, e-mail and instant messaging. The package consists of a PC card, software and a user guide, along with encryption mechanisms.
Vodafone said it currently provides UMTS coverage in more than 100 German towns or more than 25 percent of the population.
