18 wheels, G.P.S. and radar; satellite tracking and collision avoidance protect many big rigs, but some long-haul truckers feel a loss of independence

Article Abstract:

Larger trucking companies have installed as much as $15,000 worth of electronics on truck tractors that generally cost $120,000. One such device features the Global Positioning System, so dispatchers can better deploy their drivers and track valuable cargo. Another is collision avoidance equipment that uses radar to detect decreases in distance between a truck and surrounding objects. A third system, e-mail via satellite radio channel, has replaced the CB radio, because it allows nationwide communication between drivers and their headquarters. Trucking companies can use all of these devices to moniter location and performance of drivers; some drivers find this surveillance intrusive.

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Too many phones, too little service; as wireless plans proliferate, so do busy signals and disconnects

Article Abstract:

With calling plans that sell a block of minutes at prices lower than comparable land-line long distance rates, cellular service companies are signing on new subscibers at a rate of 37,500 per day, according to a Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association estimate. The total number of U.S. subscribers is approaching 77 million. As usage rises, customers are experiencing delayed network access or dropped calls. AT&T plans to spend $2 billion on infrastructure improvements; Sprint PCS, $1.5 billion. This will add towers, repeaters, micro cells and upgrade switching software to increase coverage and capacity.

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Speeding up wireless computing

Article Abstract:

The problem with Wireless data transmission is that it is slow and will remain so until the technology to speed wireless transmission is on the same level as using wires or cables. Several companies, such as Sprint PC and Air Touch Cellular have launched services that charge a monthly fee for transmission time. The future of wireless communication is uncertain and what technology will become the standard remains to be seen.

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