10Meters News Service

February 1, 2002 – TDK Systems on Thursday unveiled a snap-on Bluetooth adapter for Compaq's popular handheld device, the iPAQ.

Called the bluePAQ, the adapter will allow iPAQ users to connect to other Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, PCs, PDAs and LAN access points automatically and without upgrading their systems.

The bluePAQ is designed as a clear jacket that can be snapped onto the handheld. The drivers reside within the jacket.

Once in place, the "jacket" automatically allows Bluetooth connectivity, a user-enabled method of operation that TDK Systems says "removes many of the immediate interoperability problems that users often face."

The bluePAQ weighs less than two ounces and carries a suggested retail price of $239.99. Last fall, TDK Systems released Bluetooth enablers for laptops, PCs and a range of Palm Pilot PDAs.

"We believe Bluetooth should be a business solution, not just another technology," said Nick Hunn, managing director at TDK Systems.