WebTech and Iridium to Provide Intelligent Dual-Mode Cellular and Satellite Telematics Solution
WebTech Wireless Inc. (TSX-V:WEW), a provider of location-based
and fleet telematics services, and Iridium Satellite, the global
provider of mobile satellite voice and data communications, today
announced the introduction in Europe of a new dual-mode cellular and
satellite asset tracking and management solution for the
transportation industry.
WebTech's new WT1900system incorporates Iridium's 9601 short-burst
data modem, offering seamless coverage for long-haul customers. The
system utilizes cellular frequencies when in range of terrestrial
wireless networks and Iridium satellite links in other areas. It was
developed under a Value-Added Reseller agreement with Iridium to
provide an alternative solution that significantly reduces customers'
telecommunication costs.
"Our collaboration with Iridium fits with our product strategy to
offer viable, cost-effective telematics solutions that focus on
customer satisfaction. We are proud to deliver an industry first that
highlights our technology leadership and offers considerable cost
savings to customers," said Cameron Fraser, co-founder and chief
technology officer, WebTech Wireless.
The new WT1900 uses signal strength or other user definable
parameters to switch automatically between cellular coverage and
Iridium's satellites, ensuring the least-cost routing for the data
links. This provides more efficient use of technologies and cost
reduction of airtime usage and fleet management services.
The solution takes advantage of significant improvements in
cellular coverage and leverages Iridium's ubiquitous satellite
coverage and low-latency reliable data links to provide an integrated
solution for tracking and managing assets while achieving considerable
cost savings for data transmission. The modularity of the system
enables large fleets to mix and match their connectivity requirements
for continuous monitoring of assets and improvements in the safety and
security for drivers.
"WebTech's new telematics solution is yet another example of the
sizeable advantage that Iridium's global coverage brings to asset
tracking and management applications," said Greg Ewert, executive vice
president of Iridium Satellite. "Our constellation is uniquely
positioned to augment gaps in cellular coverage. The combination of
cellular and satellite data links ensures seamless uninterrupted
coverage wherever the vehicle goes, including remote rural areas not
covered by terrestrial carriers."
Product Information
The WT1900 will be released by the summer of 2007. For more
information on the product, visit, www.webtechwireless.com/wt1900
About Iridium Satellite
Iridium Satellite LLC (http://www.iridium.com/) is the only
provider of truly global satellite voice and data solutions with
complete coverage of the earth (including oceans, airways and Polar
Regions). Iridium delivers essential communications services to and
from remote areas where no other form of communication is available.
The Iridium constellation consists of 66 low-earth orbiting (LEO),
cross-linked satellites and has multiple in-orbit spares. The
constellation operates as a fully meshed network and is the largest
commercial satellite constellation in the world. The Iridium service
is ideally suited for industries such as maritime, aviation,
government/military, emergency/humanitarian services, mining,
forestry, oil and gas, heavy equipment, transportation and utilities.
Iridium provides service to the U.S. Department of Defense. The
company also designs, builds and sells its services, products and
solutions through a worldwide network of more than 150 partners.
About WebTech Wireless Inc.
WebTech Wireless Inc. (TSX-V:WEW) is a global Telematics,
location-based services provider that develops, manufactures, and
delivers turnkey wireless solutions designed to improve productivity
and profitability. WebTech products include wireless hardware and
software services running on cellular and satellite networks, and
include Automatic Vehicle Location, Mapping, Reporting, Vehicle
Maintenance, Driver Status, In-vehicle Telemetry, Messaging,
In-vehicle Navigation, and wireless application and Internet
connectivity. WebTech is currently providing devices and services
worldwide in eight languages to over forty-one countries covering five
continents. WebTech's scalable solutions are used by a broad range of
small, medium, Fortune 500 companies and governments. For more
information, please visit www.webtechwireless.com
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements involving
risks and uncertainties pertaining to, but not limited to product
plans, timing, content, and pricing of products, market and industry
expectations, the wireless communications industry, the mobile fleet
industry, and general economic and political conditions. Given the
risks and uncertainties inherent in the markets and industries
referred to in this press release, WebTech cannot guarantee that any
forward looking statements will be realized.
Trademarks are the property of their owners.