Research Paper on:
SPOT and the DirectBand Network of Microsoft

Unformatted Sample Text from the Research Paper:
utilizes the unused portions of the FM radio bandwidths already essentially established and the SPOT devices such as watches, key chains, and refrigerator magnets to name a few, download up-to-date  information such as weather, sports, traffic, news, stock quotes, movies and other options such as personal messages to the user. While the new technology is considered less expensive in its  implementation and the devices are also expected to be reasonably priced (and available in the fall of 2003), critics question whether or not these devices will make a substantial impact  on a market that already has a great deal of choice in regards to hand held information devices such as cell phones and Pocket PCs.  In November 2002, Bill Gates of Microsoft introduced two new concepts which will work together to provide a new market in modern convenience technology: the DirectBand network  which will implement the use of Smart Personal Object Technology (SPOT). The DirectBand Network is a "unique, continuous broadcast network across the U.S. and Canada" and takes "advantage of FM  radio subcarrier frequencies" (Microsoft, 2003). The SPOT devices are those which will take advantage of this network in that they will be everyday items, such as wristwatches, clocks, pens, refrigerator  magnets and key-chains among other micro objects which will be able to provide users with information download continuously from the DirectBand Network (Microsoft, 2003). Microsoft was able to achieve the  extensive coverage of the DirectBand Network by developing leasing arrangements with Canadian and U.S. radio broadcasters in order to lease unused FM radio bandwidth. The companies affiliated with Microsoft in  the DirectBand Network include Clear Channel Communications, Rogers Communications, Entercom Communications and Greater Media Inc. among others (Microsoft, 2003). Microsoft is manufacturing the