Bluetooth connects Palm to other devices, Internet

From...

By John Cox

(IDG) -- Bluetooth vendor Red-M has unveiled a clip-on component for the Palm Vx that lets the handheld device find and work with other Bluetooth-equipped devices.

Dubbed the Red-M Blade, the module plugs into the back of a Palm Vx to discover other nearby Bluetooth devices, such as a PC or cell phone, and transfer files or dial an Internet connection.

IDG.net INFOCENTER NWFusion main page Network World Fusion's product reviews Net.Worker: Resources for teleworkers Free daily newsletters Visit an IDG site Choose a site: IDG.net CIO Computerworld Darwin Dummies.com GamePro.com The Industry Standard ITWorld.com InfoWorld.com JavaWorld LinuxWorld Macworld Online Network World Fusion PC World Publish.com UnixInsider IDG.net search

Blade will also enable users to connect to corporate e-mail and calendar applications via Bluetooth access points within offices.

Bluetooth is a cheap, low-power, radio technology and protocol stack, originally intended to replace cable connections between computer equipment. A large number of vendors have announced plans to bring out Bluetooth adapter cards, access points and plug-in modules for many existing devices, as well as to build Bluetooth into headsets, wireless phones and many other devices.

The module can be left into the Palm, even when the device is being recharged in its cradle. A software program, called BladLink, is also available that lets users set up connections automatically in the office or while traveling, according to the vendor.

Red-M Blade costs $199, and is shipping in August. It's available at selected retail stores.