Compact Module Links Older Equipment to Wireless Networks

Molex Inc. is entering the data translation market with a fax/data card that lets legacy equipment communicate over a number of new communication protocols. The TelEnable Fax/Data Card is the first of a standard products line that will also include custom versions.

Digital Conversion

The TelEnable translates signals, converting them to the new protocols. The 3 x 4.5-inch module uses a touchtone phone and serial interface that works with any circuit data-enabled wireless phone, including CDMA, PCS, TDMA, GSM/GPRS, and IDEN. It converts serial data or a digital fax from an analog device to the digital technologies needed for transmission over a wireless network.

The modules are designed for fields such as transportation, emergency medical systems, and remote monitoring applications, where older equipment may need to communicate over comparatively new data links. Secure remote communications and document exchange are among the target applications.

Forthcoming modules will add more protocols, targeting new market segments that make heavy use of older equipment. Changing from one technology to another is mainly a software issue, so it's fairly easy to alter the modules, even customizing them for users who have unusual data communication technologies.

Embedding Functionality

"We've allowed for broad market coverage and for custom applications. We're already engaged in custom developments," says Tim Tsouchlos, director of business development at the company's Integrated Products Davison in Lisle, IL. He added that Molex has been researching the concepts for seven years.

The modules can be embedded into a customer system by using a standard harness or attached to equipment via external cabling. In low volumes, the standard modules cost $350. Evaluation products ship in late October.

Molex Inc. http://rbi.ims.ca/3858-576