Analogue/digital safe PC cards go on sale

PPCP is to sell what is being called the first range of PC card modems that allow notebook users to connect directly via digital or analogue phones. The three PC card modems can be plugged directly into the handset socket of almost any desktop telephone. Users unplug the handset cord on their phone and plug in one of the modem cards, made by Ositech, which is in turn connected to the laptop. Conventional modems can be fried if they are connected to digital phone sockets. This is why many PC card modems have limited digital line protection. But this in turn stops mobile users going online if they only have access to a digital socket. Ositech has solved this problem by using a Digital Phone Interface which allows users to connect to ordinary analogue and digital sockets. The cards automatically detect when they are connected via a digital system. They come with a software wizard, and users get a menu on their laptop screen which guides them through the connection process. John Nolan, PPCP MD, said: "The Ositech PC cards address a key problem encountered by all notebook PC users – that of not being able to find a suitable socket for connection." The Jack of Spades 56kbps modem and 10/100MB Cardbus Ethernet PC Card with DPI is priced at £226 ex VAT. The Jack of Hearts 56kbps modem and 10BaseT/2 Ethernet PC Card with DPI costs £191, and the Five of Hearts International, a 56kbps modem with DPI PC Card costs £140. ®