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Intersil's PRISM Wireless LAN Technology at Heart of New Vocera Communications System for Enterprise Voice Communications
-- PRISM 2.5 chip set offers small size and proven reliability for Vocera Communications Badges~-- New system provides instant two-way voice communications in a campus environment
IRVINE, CA, June 25, 2002 Intersil Corporation (NASDAQ: ISIL), a world leader in the design and manufacture of high performance analog and wireless networking solutions, today announced that Vocera Communications, Inc., a wireless communications company specializing in network-based software and hardware systems, has selected Intersils small-form-factor PRISM® 2.5 Wireless Local Area Networking (WLAN) chip set to provide embedded Wi-Fi connectivity for the new advanced Vocera Communications System.
The Vocera Communications System consists of two key components: the Vocera Server Software that controls and manages call activity, and the Vocera Communications Badge, a wearable voice-controlled communications device that operates over a WLAN (IEEE 802.11b). Together the Vocera Server Software and Badge allow workers to instantly communicate with others throughout a building or campus environment. The system can also connect to the PBX in order to place and receive calls through the public telephone network. Communications are initiated simply with naturally spoken commands. Scheduled for release in the fall of 2002, the Vocera Communications System is targeted at in-building environments such as medical facilities, retail stores and warehouses.
"Vocera is to be applauded for this innovative Wi-Fi based system that enhances communication and productivity in the enterprise environment," said Dave Feller, director of marketing for Intersils Wireless Networking Products Group. Never before have campus communications among highly mobile workers been so efficient and seamless.
The small form factor and proven reliability of the PRISM 2.5 chip set were the key factors that determined our selection of Intersil for this project, said Rob Darrow, Vocera's director of product management. In addition, the PRISM 2.5 chip set is an integral part of ensuring that the Vocera Communications System is compatible with todays predominant WLAN standard.
PRISM is the most highly integrated WLAN chip set on the market today, delivering wireless Ethernet networking with compliance to the IEEEs 802.11b global standard. Optimized for high data rate (11 Mbps) performance, PRISM-based systems are feature-rich and provide fast, reliable performance in all types of networking environments. Advanced design and process technologies reduce power consumption, design complexity and total system cost. PRISM 2.5 wireless networking chip set is optimized for smaller form factors and embedded WLAN applications such as mini-PCI, USB or Compact Flash that are much smaller and are typically installed directly into systems during product assembly.
About Vocera Communications
Vocera Communications, headquartered in Cupertino, Calif., was founded in March 2000 by a team of technology professionals with years of experience designing complex networked-based software and hardware systems. The company is developing a wireless communications system to enhance customer service, productivity, and teamwork throughout organizations by enabling instant communication among people. Vocera is funded by Venrock Associates, RRE Ventures, Vanguard Ventures, Avalon Ventures and IDEO. For more information, please contact the company at 408/790-4100 or visit the Web site at: www.vocera.com
Intersil + Elantec Means More for Our Customers
Intersil Corporation is a global semiconductor leader in the design and manufacture of high performance analog and wireless networking solutions. The acquisition of Elantec Semiconductor, Inc., expanded Intersils product portfolios to address four fast growing markets flat panel displays, optical storage (CD and DVD recordable), power management, and wireless networking. Intersil brings added customer value in providing complete silicon, software and reference design solutions to new products that enhance the computing experience for people wherever they live, work or travel. For more information about Intersil or to find out how to become a member of our winning team, visit the company's web site and career page at www.intersil.com PRISM is a registered trademark of Intersil Americas Inc.
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