Option N.V. today unveiled its first ExpressCard wireless data card, the GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2. ExpressCard technology is the latest hardware expansion based on the PCI-standard for mobile computers. GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 is currently sampling and initial shipments to leading network operators are scheduled for January 2007.

Operating on multiple frequency bands, the GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 is capable of connecting in virtually every country worldwide. The GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 automatically scans networks for HSDPA, UMTS, EDGE and GPRS in order to establish the fastest possible connection. For launches before availability of HSDPA 7.2 Mbps networks, the product can optionally be provided with HSDPA 3.6Mbps and boosted to 7.2 Mbps via a simple firmware upgrade. In all cases backward compatibility ensures HSDPA connections at lower data rates of 3.6 Mbps and 1.8 Mbps or UMTS connections up to 384 Kbps.

In spite of its advanced performance, the GlobeTrotter EXPRESS 7.2 is a truly “plug and play” device. When the EXPRESS 7.2 is inserted into the ExpressCard slot of a laptop, Option’s patented Zero CD technology automatically loads all necessary software and drivers from the data card itself: no software needs to be installed from a CD-ROM.

Product Highlights

• Card Type: ExpressCard/34
• Miniature External Antenna Connection
• Easy installation with the Plug ‘n’ Play zero CD® installation
• HSDPA and UMTS: up to 7.2 Mbps downlink and 384 kbps uplink 
• EDGE/GPRS/GSM: up to 247 kbps
• Global connectivity
• Triple band HSDPA/UMTS (850/1900/2100 MHz) 
• Quad Band EDGE/GPRS/GSM (850/900/1800/1900 MHz)
• Compatible with nearly all modern Desktop and laptop PCs equipped with Microsoft OS (2000, XP, XP Pro and Vista) and MAC OS X

via engadgetmobile