The most interesting parts of the article.."We expect this partnership to allow us to make great inroads into this area of the world," Watson added.
There is a big interest in wireless networks in Japan, Watson said. Demand for high-speed bandwidth in residential areas is so great that trying to install sufficient cable would be a nightmare task.
Watson says Plaintree's technology has two key advantages over rival products – it is cheaper and it is based on LED signals, rather than laser.
Aside from the concerns about potential eye damage, laser-based FSO technology has a poor track record for reliability in hot climates, he said.
That advantage has led a big telecom firm in the Middle East to request test units of Plaintree's technology. However, Watson cautioned that there is not yet any indication that the tests will lead to firm orders.
Similar tests are being carried out by a couple of big telecom firms in South America and by a number of North American oil and gas firms, he added.
Life and interest seem to have come back at our dear Plaintree!
Let's hope for the best in 2004!