SIERRA DEBUTS WIRELESS MODEM FOR MICROSOFT WINDOWS CE H/PC PROF.

Sierra Wireless has launched AirCard CE, the market's first, true type-2 PC card wide-area wireless modem that delivers wireless connectivity to the users of handheld computers based on Microsoft's Windows CE platform. The result is tightly integrated, highly portable wireless access to enterprise networks, intranets, e-mail and the Internet.

The introduction of new portable computing devices based on the Windows CE H/PC Pro Edition expand the range of options for the mobile professional and mobile workforce. The combination of Windows CE-based portable computers and the AirCard CE gives the mobile user a compelling wireless platform on which to run mobile applications designed to improve their productivity, customer service responsiveness and competitive position.

"Wireless applications add value to Handheld PCs because they extend mobility by making access to remote data wireless," said Dennis Hamann, worldwide marketing manager of Hewlett Packard's Asia Pacific PC Division. "The Sierra Wireless AirCard CE solution, when used with the new HP Handheld PC, fully satisfies this need."

"Sharp's introduction of the Mobilon TriPad and Mobilon Pro offers corporate and vertical markets an alternative to purchasing a laptop or developing customized hardware for mobile professionals and mobile workers," said Stephen Wain, associate vice president and general manager of Sharp's Corporate Sales Division. "Sharp believes the Sierra Wireless AirCard CE is a key enabler in providing compelling mobile solutions. Its small size and IP-based software support fit well with Sharp's versatile hardware and software offerings."

"The expanding range of Windows CE handheld computers is big news for the wireless data market," said Andrew Harries, vice president of marketing at Sierra Wireless. "Field forces now have an unbeatable range of features, footprints and prices to choose from. And to each the AirCard CE delivers wireless IP connectivity."

About The AirCard CE The AirCard CE represents a significant breakthrough in size (Type-2 PC Card with compact, extendable antenna), performance and power management, and operates on any handheld computer with a PC Card slot running Windows CE 2.0 or higher.

The AirCard CE puts the cellular radio right into the PC Card, eliminating the need for cabling the Handheld PC to an external phone or modem.

Long battery life is critical to portable computer users so Sierra Wireless has incorporated advanced power management techniques in the AirCard CE.

The AirCard CE also supports "Alert Mode," a unique feature which enables the Windows CE computer to receive messages via the AirCard CE even when the computer is off.

Bundled with AirCard CE are Watcher and WirelessExpert for Windows CE, intuitive, easy-to-use utilities that allow for simple modem installation, configuration and use.

The AirCard CE utilizes Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD), commonly known as Wireless IP, the fastest wide-area wireless service currently available with transmission speeds of 19.2 kbps and a high level of security using RSA encryption.

Coverage is available in over 200 markets with services offered by AT&T Wireless Services, Bell Atlantic Mobile, GTE Wireless, Ameritech Wireless and other major operators. CDPD also enjoys a growing presence in Canada, Latin America, Asia and the South Pacific.

Windows CE Handheld PC Professional Edition Formerly code-named "Jupiter," the H/PC Pro Edition software improves remote access and connectivity to corporate data while maintaining the familiarity of Windows. In addition, the H/PC Pro Edition software enables new hardware differentiation such as full-size VGA and Super VGA displays and alternative pointing devices such as a mouse. Handheld PCs supporting H/PC Pro Edition are manufactured by today's leading Handheld PC and Notebook manufacturers.

About Sierra Wireless Sierra Wireless is a leading, wireless data, communications equipment company. The leader in cellular packet data subscriber products, Sierra Wireless delivers a broad range of products including PC Cards for portable computers, ruggedized vehicle-mounted modems, OEM modules for embedded applications, telemetry modems and software tools and utilities.

For more information about Sierra Wireless' product lines, visit the company's web site at www.sierrawireless.com or call 604/231-1100 and ask for sales support.