Communications Briefs

By Staff On Jul 7 2003 - 6:00am

Bluetooth 1.2 Due

Amsterdam — The Bluetooth special interest group (SIG) announced here that an enhanced Bluetooth spec, version 1.2, is in final testing phases. The updated spec will enhance security, accelerate user setup, improve quality of service, and coexist more peacefully with 2.4GHz wireless networks and cordless phones, the group said. The new spec, backward compatible with the old, incorporates adaptive frequency hopping (AFH) technology to reduce interference with other 2.4GHz devices.

Nextel, NASCAR In Race Tie

New York— The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) picked Nextel as title sponsor of NASCAR's national racing series for 10 years beginning with the 2004 season. The NASCAR Nextel Cup Series will consist of 36 races at 23 tracks in 19 states. Nextel replaces R.J. Reynolds' Winston brand, which has been title sponsor since 1971 of the NASCAR Winston Cup Series. In part, R.J. Reynolds cited growing legal limitations on tobacco company marketing activities.