A Core Competence Product Evaluation

Conclusion

At the conclusion of any trial, a good way to judge a product's utility is to ask ourselves "Would I Buy It?". In this case, there isn't a simple answer. If I lived and worked in a GSM service area, I'd be very tempted to convert my cell phone subscription - and probably will when Omnipoint extends its Philadelphia-area GSM network. But without a GSM phone, I can't use the GSM Connection Kit. And although I frequently travel in metropolitan areas where GSM roaming coverage is available, I can't cost-justify a separate GSM phone subscription for wireless data.

On the other hand, if I were already a GSM subscriber, there's no question that I'd want to buy this GSM Connection Kit for my Xircom PC Card. The ability to transfer data using an existing cell phone, modem, and service plan is compelling. Yes, there are recurring air time costs, but corporate users may find this "one bill" approach easier to deal with than a separate monthly tab for wireless data. The Xircom GSM Connection Kit is a great fit for corporate travelers who roam within major US cities or outside North America.

For more information about Xircom's GSM Connection Kits, visit Xircom's web site.

-- Reviewed by Lisa Phifer, April 16, 1998



Read about Xircom's PC card in our IW Labs Review
Read more about wireless in our White Paper
To the CoreCom Technology Corner