| Wireless communications may get a boost from a new
Windows-based development tool that emulates a complete
CDPD (cellular digital packet data) network. The software
emulator, called CDPD Workbench, lets developers test
their applications while simulating various levels of
network traffic, radio interference, vehicle speeds, and
other variables that are difficult to create under actual
conditions. Workbench was introduced in September by Cellular Data (Palo Alto, CA, (415) 856-9800). Workbench emulates the entire CDPD network between the mobile-computing device (known as the MAS, or Mobile Application Subsystem) and the host device (the F-ES, or Fixed-End System). "Given the alternative, which is to put an engineer in a car and drive around a lot, the price [$3995] is exceptionally attractive," says Jacques A. Robinson, president and CEO of Cellular Data. Without rigorous testing, says Robinson, developers can't be sure how their wireless applications will fare in the hostile environment of mobile communications. Just before the official launch of CDPD Workbench, as this article was going to press, Cellular Data was informed that its key source of funding would no longer be available. A spokesperson said the company is seeking alternative sources. Illustration: The Network Emulator Replaces... Copyright 1994-1997 BYTE |