Computer modem to connect with speedy cellular tech

NEW YORK — A top networking gear producer plans to offer a speedy new cellular technology that's an alternative to DSL and cable Internet access with the added advantage of being available on the road.

NetGear Inc. is designing a broadband modem for use with a long-range wireless data service called Flash-OFDM that is currently being trialed by Nextel Communications Inc., T-Mobile International and Vodafone PLC.

The hardware would interconnect Flash-OFDM, which was developed by startup Flarion Technologies Inc., with personal computers and networks using Ethernet or Wi-Fi technology.

NetGear also may develop a card for laptops that would enable mobile access using Flash-OFDM.

The announcement, planned for today, may be a sign that Nextel or another major cell phone company is preparing to move beyond trials to full deployment of the Flarion technology.

Without a commitment from at least one service provider, equipment makers such as NetGear are generally hesitant to invest in launching a new product based on a nascent technology. Otherwise, there would be no use and no customers for the product once it's introduced.

Both NetGear and Flarion officials declined to comment on any potential carrier commitment, though Flarion president Mike Gallagher asserted that, "we will have commercial operators in 2005. We'll know soon enough."

Nextel won't discuss any plans for Flarion beyond the current trial in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina.

It is no secret, however, that Nextel wants to replace its slowpoke data connection before its coveted legions of high-revenue business users can be lured by fast new services at Verizon Wireless and other rivals.

Coming just a week after Siemens AG of Germany said it will build network equipment based on Flarion technology, the NetGear announcement also may place more pressure on telephone and cable TV companies to enhance their wireless offerings.

Notably, SBC Communications Inc. planned to announce today that its 4.3 million DSL subscribers will be offered free Wi-Fi access at 3,900 hot spots until mid-April, and afterward for just $2 a month.

Meanwhile, the speed and mobility offered by emerging technologies like Flash-OFDM and other robust relatives of Wi-Fi also raise some questions about whether the Bell phone companies may be late with their multibillion dollar plans to replace copper lines with lightning-quick fiber-optic cables.