A cableless connection to a public network using infrared media for lightweight portable devices

This paper describes a new simple cableless communication method using infrared (IR) media for Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), subnotebooks, other portable computers, consumer products, and existing modems connected to a network. In particular, those technologies are addressed that are related to the infrared standard protocols defined by the Infrared Data Association (IrDA), which was established as a standardization body for high-speed point and beam, similar to a remote control over close range within a few meters. A reference model, including terminal composition and simple interfaces between portable devices and networks, using infrared communication media are described.