SAN JOSE, Calif.-News relative to wireless home networking continues, with several players announcing new initiatives this week.
2Wire said it has sold its millionth residential gateway since it launched its flagship product in August 2000. “Service providers need to be able to offer new services in a cost-effective, risk-free way. Subscribers want a convenient, enjoyable broadband experience,” said Brian Hinman, chief executive officer and founder of 2Wire. “Our broadband services platform, comprising of residential gateways integrated with an intelligent back-end management system, meets both their requirements.”
Bartech Systems International announced it has installed a wireless minibar network at the Willard InterContinental Hotel in Washington, D.C. Bartech’s network allows the hotel to charge guests for products removed from the minibar. The wireless facilities that enable the system also provide high-speed wireless Internet access to guests. “As an immediate benefit, the e-fridge will increase our refreshment revenues and enhance guest satisfaction as it streamlines the billing process,” said Pascal Forotti, executive assistant manager of the hotel. “In the longer term, we now have an infrastructure that we can use to offer complimentary wireless Internet in each of our 341 guest rooms.”
Finally, high-speed broadband communications services provider USURF America Inc. said MicroSource Inc. will provide its customers with technology management services. “We are excited about the network-monitoring facilities and technical support MSI will provide to our customers,” said Ken Upcraft, USURF’s executive vice president.
