An original PHS packet communications protocol developed by NEC, provides the communications infrastructure. Together with these three software-based technologies, PCs only need to be equipped with a low power radio modem to establish a network. The resulting system assigns one PC to act as server and guarantee the communications infrastructure, and then complete the necessary wireless network set-ups. The system gives PC users the flexibility to hold conferences and seminars, or work jointly on electronic files and presentations from preferred indoor or outdoor locations. Apart from the more immediate business application possibilities, the system could also be used for example, by teachers and students for classes where members vary.
Additional possibilities are for use in homes and outdoors.
Currently, forming users into a network requires not only the construction of a network infrastructure, but upgrading computers with additional equipment and a dedicated server to manage group computing activities. Such fixed networks do not provide much flexibility. As the number of mobile computer users and the capabilities of wireless devices increase, there are growing demands for greater freedom in connecting to networks from a variety of locations, and flexibility in forming ad hoc networks for group computing. Anticipating and responding to such needs, NEC initiated research and development into a PHS-based communications protocol, that would provide the wireless communications infrastructure necessary for group computing. Using these APIs, NEC development engineers have constructed new application software.