VIA Unveils Wireless Mobile Web Pad

VIA Technologies, Inc has introduced a distinctive new Web Pad reference design featuring 802.11b wireless connectivity technology at CeBIT 2001. The VIA Web Pad has been developed as the first mobile reference design in the company’s open industry-wide Value Internet Architecture initiative, alongside the new ITX motherboard, Information PC, and Set Top Box reference designs also being displayed at the show.

The Web Pad utilizes 802.11b technology to give the user the freedom to wirelessly access the web or send email from anywhere in the office, the home, or any other locations such as hotels and airports where a server is available. Based on Microsoft Windows™ 98SE, the device packs a full complement of mainstream multimedia and computing capabilities, including a CD- or DVD-ROM player, into a small and compact form factor.

It also features a crystal clear Super-TFT 800×600 touch panel LCD screen that allows easy data input using a stylus, 64MB SDRAM, one PCMCIA slot for wireless networking, and onboard Ethernet/Home PNA.

“The new VIA Web Pad Reference Design extends the embrace of the VIA Value Internet Architecture to the wireless web,” commented Wen-Chi Chen, President and CEO of VIA Technologies, Inc. “It provides OEMs and system integrators with a robust and customizable platform for quickly entering the rapidly growing market for mobile Digital PC Appliances.”