Intersil's PRISM Broadband Wireless
Technology
at Heart of New Vocera Communications System f
or 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, Calif., 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 Intersil's small-form-factor PRISM(R) 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
Intersil's 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 today's
predominant WLAN standard."
PRISM is the most highly integrated WLAN chip set on the
market today, delivering wireless Ethernet networking with compliance to the
IEEE's 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 Intersil's
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
# # #
CONTACT:
Intersil Corporation
Ron
Paciello, 321/724-7184 rpaciell@Intersil.com
or
Vocera
Communications
Victoria Holl, 408/790-4115 vholl@vocera.com