SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 25, 2003--Consumers can now install and use inkjet printers without worrying about cables, software or configuration, thanks to a new wireless printing product from AmbiCom, which allows users to send printer data across a wireless communications link.

The virtual cable is based on a Bluetooth(R) system-on-chip technology developed by Microtune(R), Inc. (TUNE.PK) of Plano, TX, a pioneer in radio frequency (RF) silicon solutions. The wireless printing solution is the first in an expected AmbiCom product family that will provide cable-free USB wireless replacement for other peripherals.

With a suggested retail price of $69.99, the AmbiCom Wireless Printer Kit will be targeted to individuals who want a simple, easy-to-use and inexpensive way to avoid cable clutter in homes and offices. It will also be targeted to corporate IT departments for easy cable-less deployment throughout an organization. The retail price tag is designed to beat the cost of alternative Wi-Fi (802.11) options.

The product will be available initially through CompUSA. It will begin shipping next week.

The Wireless Printer Kit supports the print modes and operations of popular inkjet printers, including Hewlett Packard(R) (HP), Lexmark(TM), Epson(R), and Canon(R) devices. Because this technology does not require line-of-sight transmissions, AmbiCom's kit allows users to send printer files from a system in one room to a printer located in another room.

The kit bundle includes two adaptors with built-in software, power supply and A/B connector converter. A $39.99 PC adaptor will also be available for users who want to enable numerous systems.

"AmbiCom has designed a simple and inexpensive way to eliminate cords and cable clutter. Consumers or businesses can be cable-free and printing files from multiple systems within five minutes. Our wireless printing solution is just the first of a family of AmbiCom peripherals, which will be based on this technology," said Kenneth Cheng, President of AmbiCom.

The AmbiCom Wireless Printer Kit complies with conventional USB 1.1 standard protocols and deploys a 2.4 GHz wireless communications link. It creates a virtual cable, which allows PCs, notebooks or other computing devices with a USB port to be wireless capable. The data is passed unmodified to the receiving device. Its operation is completely transparent to users - they perform functions just as if they are using a hardwired cable connection.

The Wireless Printer Kit delivers print speeds comparable to cable and at ranges that can exceed 100 feet in most home and office environments. It also has a range in an open environment of up to 200 feet, and can support multiple PCs.

Installation is simple. The consumer plugs the PC adaptor into the system's USB port and plugs the printer adaptor into the printer's USB port. Once the power line is connected, the system is ready for wireless printing.

Requirements are minimal - an available USB port, Windows(R) or Mac operating systems in a loaded USB printer driver.

About AmbiCom

Silicon Valley-based AmbiCom was founded in 1997 and has been building its reputation by providing complete networking solutions for all mobile lifestyle needs. The company offers user-friendly wireless solutions with products such as PC Cards, secure digital I/O, CF cards, GPS cards, and USB products, while also providing embedded wireless solutions for OEM and ODM customers. AmbiCom's new wireless solutions include Bluetooth and IEEE 802.11b wireless LAN solutions. All products feature full compatibility, flexibility, superior support and service and are available through domestic and international distributors, computer retail stores, system integrators, e-commerce, mail order companies, educational resellers, and many other channels. For more information check www.ambicom.com, call 408-562-0168 ext.206 or e-mail us at [email protected].

About Microtune

Microtune, Inc. is a silicon and subsystems company that designs and markets radio frequency (RF)-based solutions for the worldwide broadband communications and transportation electronics markets. Inventors of the MicroTuner(TM) single-chip broadband tuner, the Company offers a portfolio of advanced tuner, amplifier, and transceiver products that enable the delivery of information and entertainment across new classes of consumer electronics devices. The Company currently holds 27 U.S. patents for its technology, with approximately 50 applications pending approval that span its RF products, containing more than 2000 supporting claims. Founded in 1996, Microtune is headquartered in Plano, Texas, with key design and sales centers located around the world. The website is www.microtune.com.