In the Internet age, time is everything. And, as Metricom sees it, "The time for wireless data service is now." Founded in 1985, Metricom focuses on three components: mobile Internet access technology, mobile Internet network design and buildout, and mobile Internet network operation. Metricom is already positioned in three metropolitan areas with the technology to provide its "Ricochet" mobile Internet access at 28.8 kilobits per second (kbps). The company is well-funded to expand its coverage. Since going public in 1992, Metricom has received over $600 million from its primary stockholder Vulcan Ventures, which owns 46 percent of the company, and another $300 million from MCI WorldCom, owner of 38 percent.

Fast times

Metricom plans to launch its Ricochet II 128 kbps service in 45 cities by fall 2001. In the rush to establish Metricom as the preferred wireless web access provider, the company has focused on expanding its reach by attracting "leading resellers nationwide" and staying "ahead of competing technologies," according to John Wernke, VP of Sales and Marketing. As part of a recent deal with MCI WorldCom, Metricom signed a non-exclusive wholesale agreement, in which Metricom will spend $350 million over the next five years to use MCI WorldCom's established data networks to expand Ricochet coverage. Other Internet service providers, including Juno Online Services, will also distribute Metricom's services. In early 2000, Metricom formed two strategic alliances. First, in March, the company signed a manufacturing agreement with NatSteel Electronics; a month later, it allied with National Semiconductor. Metricom and National Semiconductor will work together to develop, and subsequently to market, Metricom's modems.

What's the frequency, Metricom?