Fujitsu Launches USX Field Connectivity Software Solution
Fujitsu Limited today launched its new USX(TM) field connectivity software package, which is designed to help accelerate customer innovation in the field and bring ubiquitous connectivity to the front lines of businesses. The new software package will be commercially available in Japan beginning today. The USX package is comprised of server software and client software. It leverages sophisticated presence management(*1) functions developed by Fujitsu, capable of delivering ubiquitous networking phone features that automatically route calls over the optimal network, such as wireless LAN (via internet or intranet) or internal or external phone lines, depending on the location of the mobile handset user. It also supports an optional Push-to-talk over Cellular/Wireless (PoC/W)(*2) function, enabling a user to transmit voice or data messages to multiple recipients simultaneously.
By enabling ubiquitous connectivity out in the field, the full software package, including the development kit, can help revolutionize the front lines of customer businesses in a wide range of areas. Even the following enterprise connectivity applications, which have been considered difficult to develop, can now be developed with ease using USX:
Large-scale factory maintenance applications:
As technicians at a large-scale factory are making their maintenance rounds, information and even maintenance manuals for specific equipment can be transmitted in real time through mobile handsets along with verbal instructions, enabling employees to share information on conditions and collaborate in solving problems quickly and efficiently.
Field maintenance applications:
Field maintenance staff can confirm appointments or be informed of last-minute schedule changes, report on the progress of their work, and even prepare field reports using mobile handsets, linking them closely with the head office and enabling them to work efficiently and flexibly.
Remote workforce applications:
Salespeople in the field can confirm schedules and the status of inventories and deliveries, make on-the-spot sales quotations, and process orders in real time, resulting in greater sales force efficiency and higher customer satisfaction.
Key Package Features
Ubiquitous Networking Phone Functions as Standard Feature:
The Fujitsu USX software package allows users to reduce communication costs by eliminating unnecessary external phone line usage and enables instant communication with other parties without having to think about where they are, creating a ubiquitous networking environment. The package also supports an optional PoC/W function, enabling a user to transmit voice or data messages to multiple recipients simultaneously.
Easy-to-Build Customized Mobile Applications:
The USX package includes an interface for linking with main office operations and a software development kit, making it easy for customers to build customized operational applications for mobile handsets. Initially, intelligent mobile handsets from Net-2Com Corporation(*3), the WiPCom 1000 series, will be available as client handsets. The WiPCom 1000 series, which run on Windows(R) CE, can operate over both wireless LAN-VoIP and cellular networks. In the future, Fujitsu plans to also support mobile handsets that run on either Linux or Symbian OS, facilitating the development of client application in an open standard environment and making it easier to integrate with existing operations.
Operation Management Functions for Mobile System in One Package:
Because the software includes all functions such as user and handset management, remote client software transmission, presence management, and address book with corresponding server functions in one package, it reduces the operational management burden that is typical of mobile systems.
Other features such as PIM (personal information manager) and secure VPN transmission come standard with the software. PIM provides the features of scheduling (active scheduler) and address book. VPN (virtual private network) enables secure transmission of data across the public Internet.
The USX software package will be exhibited at Fujitsu Forum 2005, to be held July 14-15 at the Tokyo International Forum.
Sales Target
5,000 sets over three years within Japan. (Overseas sales is to be decided.)
*1. Presence management: A structure that recognizes the network status of people or objects, enabling users to employ ubiquitous networking services anytime and anywhere without having to think about network connections.
*2. Push-to-talk over Cellular/Wireless (PoC/W): Functions or services to multiple transceivers over a wireless IP network.
*3. Net-2Com Corporation:
Chairman and CEO: Kiyoshi Oh
Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Capital: 3,049.9 million yen
Major Shareholders: Fujitsu Limited, Softbank Technology Corporation, Nomura Research and Advisory Co., Ltd.
Business Description: Manufacture and sale of IP-Centrex, VoIP-Gateway, and wireless LAN-VoIP terminals as well as integration services for these products. Established and managed under Fujitsu’s venture business system.
About Fujitsu Limited
Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702)(ADR: FJTSY) is a leading provider of customer-focused IT and communications solutions for the global marketplace. Pace-setting device technologies, highly reliable computing and communications platforms, and a worldwide corps of systems and services experts uniquely position Fujitsu to deliver comprehensive solutions that open up infinite possibilities for its customers’ success. Headquartered in Tokyo, Fujitsu Limited reported consolidated revenues of 4.7 trillion yen (US$44.5 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005. For more information, please see: www.fujitsu.com.
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