Europe : Option unveils a comprehensive range of high performance HSUPA and HSDPA wireless broadband devices and an extended software offering at the 3GSM World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, 12-15 February 2007 (Hall 2, Level 1 – B17).

HSUPA, a 3G UMTS enhancement that significantly increases upload data rates from device to network, features in two new PC data cards, a sleek fixed wireless USB device with tactile design, and an embedded wireless module for incorporation in laptops by PC manufacturers.  All of the new HSUPA devices from Option are designed to deliver download speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps and upload data rates of up to 2Mbps. Commercially availability for all these HSUPA products is scheduled during Q2 2007.

The GlobeTrotter GT MAX HSUPA integrates Option’s unique and patented ‘Butterfly’ retractable antenna concept into the familiar PC Card format to create a high performance device that doesn’t need to be removed from the notebook during transport.

The GlobeTrotter Express HSUPA packs advanced data communication capabilities into the slim-line, future-proof, ExpressCard compatible with the 34mm expansion slots increasingly found on the latest laptop models. 

GlobeSurfer® icon HSUPA delivers DSL-like download and upload speeds in a compact tactile device that can plug directly into the USB port of any laptop or desktop PC.  Its sleek and stylish design will appeal to the growing consumer market for flexible wireless data solutions. The GlobeSurfer® icon HSUPA is the latest addition to Option’s portfolio of fixed-wireless devices that enable wireless operators to compete in markets traditionally dominated by fixed telecommunications companies.

The GTM380 is an HSUPA PCI Express Mini Card and is the fourth embedded wireless module developed by Option.  In addition to support for HSUPA & HSDPA, the GTM380 also enables A-GPS and S-GPS capability to any laptop or device in which it is embedded. 

“With its significantly faster upload, HSUPA adds an extra dimension to wireless broadband and empowers operators to offer new bandwidth-intensive, two-way data services.  Enabling mobile access to applications such as video streaming, video telephony and conferencing, ftp file transfer and even multiplayer gaming, HSUPA will revolutionise the lives of many - professionals and consumers,” said Jan Callewaert, CEO of Option. “With these latest additions to our market-leading data card portfolio, HSUPA is now available with Option’s proven performance and reliability.”

The company also announces that its current portfolio of wireless data cards, USB modems and wireless modules fully support Windows® Vista 32 and Vista 64.  All software drivers have been specifically re-designed for Vista, and have been fully validated and signed (certified) by Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WQHL).

A comprehensive review on the software needs of the operators has resulted in a segmented connectivity software portfolio – GlobeTrotter Connect, GlobeTrotter Mobility Manager and GlobeTrotter Unlimited Connection – offering a range of software solutions matching specific customer requirements.

Furthering the evolution of the GlobeSurfer® range of wireless router products Option will also unveil at 3GSM World Congress the GlobeSurfer® II 7.2.  Designed for the home, small office, or temporary office location, the GlobeSurfer® II 7.2 creates an instant hotspot that allows several WiFi-enabled PC’s to share an HSDPA connection to the internet at speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps. The GlobeSurfer® II 7.2 is commercially available as of March 2007.

Reflecting the growing importance of customer taste in a growing consumer orientated market, Option’s established USB device, the GlobeSurfer® icon 7.2,  is now being offered in a wide range of attractive colours.