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AAD appointed as sole local distributor for Sony Ericsson GSM modules

By Alcatel
Johannesburg, 01 Aug 2002

Arrow Altech Distribution (AAD), Africa`s leading distributor of quality industrial, electronic and computer components, has been appointed as a distributor of Sony Ericsson`s newest GSM dual band 900/1800 and 850/1900 modules incorporating GPRS, the GM47 and GM48 respectively. AAD is a joint venture between the multi-billion Rand JSE-listed Altech Group of companies and Arrow Electronics Inc, one of the world`s largest NYSE listed electronics distribution giants.

A unique benefit of implementing GPRS in machine-to-machine communications is the possibility of transferring large amounts of data rapidly and always being connected. Demand for GPRS modules has increased as GPRS networks are rolled out. This offers new business opportunities within machine-to-machine (M2M) communication for business, convenience and leisure applications.

Modules are used to enable M2M communication via wireless networks. The wireless M2M marketplace is currently undergoing rapid development and until recently most applications have been based on SMS and voice. Now that General Packet Radio Services (GPRS) is being rolled out, innovative business opportunities arise within M2M. The `always on` and the `pay for volume of data` benefits of GPRS, together with the possibility of transferring large amounts of data in a short time (at up to 85.6kbps,) offer notable business opportunities for operators and service providers.

M2M communications solutions with GPRS are well suited for navigation, mobile payment, alarm, traffic information, monitoring and control, mobile office etc. It is also suitable for business applications such as e-mail and remote LAN access, as well as for leisure `fun` applications, for example the downloading of games, video or music.

Features of the GM47 and GM48 modules include: compact size 33 x 50 x 7.2mm; data capability GPRS (4+1) (up to 85.6kbps, P Channel support), HSCSD, CSD; voice (HR, FR, EFR); SMS (MO/MT); SIM interface; GPS interoperability; and digital audio (providing analogue to digital conversion without A/D converter). The Sony Ericsson GM47/48 Developer`s Kit is also available which aids system integrators in developing and testing applications.

General Manager of AAD`s Industrial Components Group, Tony Boardman, says, "We are very excited about our appointment as a distributor for Sony Ericsson as it enables us to provide innovative solutions to the emerging market of wireless M2M communication. The same levels of excellence and manufacturing expertise that have been trademarks of Sony and Ericsson worldwide are evident in the company`s GSM modules, and we are proud to represent this pre-eminent manufacturer locally."

The GM47 is available in stock now. For professional technical support, please contact Gyula Wendler on (011) 923-9600 or gwendler@arrow.altech.co.za.

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