Processors in the Banias family will benefit from integrated 802.11a/b dual band WLAN technology - also known as Wi-Fi - allowing wireless networking at speeds of up to 54Mbps and 11Mbps respectively, less interference between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth...
That users can't roam seamlessly between hot spots is a huge obstacle to the widespread adoption of mobile computing, one that stands between Intel and billions in unrealised revenue in the chips that power wireless computers.
All the UK's mobile operators are working on PC cards that provide a simple 3G connection and others that combine GPRS, 3G and even wireless LAN connectivity, though notebook PCs increasingly come with integrated Wi-Fi.
It claims its proprietary technology provides switching between cellular networks and wireless LAN without losing connection. Of course there are technical challenges to overcome, the most important of which is seamless hand over from a wireless...
The WiMax Forum is developing standards for fixed, nomadic, portable and eventually wireless broadband connectivity, without needing direct line of sight to a base station. It says the technology should be able to deliver up to 40Mbps per channel...
Businesses use the technology to connect workers to the internet wirelessly rather than through an Ethernet cable. Airespace makes switches and access radios to build wireless local area networks based on Wi-Fi, the 802.11 standard.