3Com Corporation have announced that it has acquired Nomadic Technologies, Inc., developers of wireless networking products that 3Com will incorporate into solutions for both home and small business customers. The acquisition builds on 3Com`s strength in wireless LAN solutions for PCs by enabling connectivity for a wide variety of Ethernet-ready devices, such as Internet access appliances, printers and other non-PC devices. 3Com will acquire Nomadic Technologies, Inc. for $33 million in cash plus the assumption of debt and other obligations.
"3Com`s focus is to deliver rich and radically simple connectivity solutions to its commercial and consumer customers," said Paul Fulton, vice president and general manager of 3Com`s Wireless Connectivity Division. "In acquiring Nomadic, 3Com extends its competitive edge with the ability to offer a truly complete wireless solution to consumers and small business customers. Specifically, combining Nomadic`s technology with 3Com`s broadening line of Internet devices, such as the Audrey Internet appliance and the Kerbango Internet radio, will help 3Com to form the foundation of the digital home."
3Com`s acquisition of Nomadic targets critical needs for consumers interested in deploying a wireless LAN in the home or small business. Rather than being limited only to PCs for wireless connections, Ethernet-enabled devices can be transformed into wireless devices, bringing greater flexibility, mobility, and simplicity to wireless LANs. By focusing on the real life challenges that users are likely to encounter when they attempt to extend Internet access and data communications throughout the home, 3Com is helping to enable wireless networking as a viable consumer technology.
"Becoming a part of 3Com creates incredible synergy in the wireless arena," said Jim Slater, CEO, Nomadic Technologies. "Nomadic`s technology and people combined with 3Com`s global brand and strengths in wireless technology, manufacturing, distribution, and strategic alliances will help drive our products into the broader marketplace."
Nomadic Technologies, Inc.
Nomadic Technologies, Inc., originally founded in 1990 as a robotics company, has been specializing in the development of specialized wireless networking devices since 1993. The company`s OEM customers include several of the world`s leading companies including Lucent, Texas Instruments, and Symbol Technologies. For more information about Nomadic, visit their web site at www.nomadiccomm.com/.
3Com Corporation
3Com simplifies how people connect to information and services through easy-to-use, connectivity products and solutions for consumers and commercial organizations. The company also provides access infrastructures and IP services platforms for network service providers. For further information, visit www.3com.com or the press site at www.3com.com/pressbox.
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