3Com Preps Modem, Wireless Beta Tests

3Com's Mobile Beta Test Services is looking for beta testers to evaluate two 802.11b-based wireless PC cards, and new V.92 modem software for the 3Com mobile combo card platform. Applications for a retractable antenna wireless test will be accepted until Wednesday, January 9. Alternatively, registration for a fixed antenna PC card test will remain open until January 21. The deadline for applying to test the modem upgrade is Friday, January 11.

The V.92/V.44 modem upgrade is open to applicants who have a 3C3FEM656 C, 3CXFEM656 C, CXSH654B or 3C3SH654B Ethernet+Modem PC card. A Windows based laptop running Windows 95, NT 4.0 SP6, Windows 98, Windows 98 SE, Windows Me, Windows 2000 SP2, or Windows XP Pro is required. Testers must also have access to a full line of communication software for modem communication, remote access and FAX abilities, and have lines capable of connection V.90 prior to beginning the test.

3Com requests that all applicants for the wireless PC card test list the access point brand and model in the comments section, as well as whether the wireless network has been setup for 40-bit or 128-bit WEP. A Windows-based laptop running Windows 98, Windows 98 SE, Windows Me, Windows 2000 SP2, or Windows XP Pro is required to participate in the beta test. A wireless access point from 3Com, Cisco, or Lucent that supports 128-bit WEP is preferred, however some testers with any other 802.11b-compliant access point may be accepted. Only those residing in the United States or Canada will be considered.

To apply for either beta test, visit beta-test.3com.com. 3Com requests that testers dedicate at least 10-15 hours per week to testing and report progress on a daily basis.