This April, NTT Mobile Communications Network, Inc. (NTT DoCoMo) released “Doccimo,” the industry’s first PHS/PDC dual-mode handset. The handset is compatible with both PHS and the 800MHz PDC (Personal Digital Communication) systems, allowing users to enjoy the best of both worlds N a wide communication area enabled by PDC as well as clear sound and 64kbit/s high-speed data communications made possible by PHS.

Release of the first “Doccimo” model SH811 is the upshot of the December 1998 merger of PHS operator NTT Personal Communications Network Company into PDC operator NTT DoCoMo, which enabled DoCoMo to operate both services. Another factor behind this release was the commercial launch of PHS 64kbit/s high-speed data communications service that appealed the increased functionality of PHS.

SH811 is lightweight (86g) and compact (86cc), yet it has high functionality allowing eight hours of uninterrupted communications in the PHS mode and 100 minutes in the PDC mode. Two more models, P811 and N811, are planned for release by this autumn. Features of “Doccimo” are as follows.

1. Built-in dual-mode functionality

This new handset has PDC/PHS dual-mode functionality, or specifically Oquattro-mode’ functionality enabling public PDC, public PHS, private PHS and PHS walkie-talkie communications. It can be used as a digital cordless phone at home and a portable handset for the PBX/PHS telephone system installed in the office N therefore, it is aimed at enabling users to communicate with anybody, anytime, anywhere.
Users will have phone numbers for both PHS and PDC, in addition to paying for the basic charges of both these services.

2. Mode setting

The new model has flexibility in mode setting. Users can choose PDC or PHS manually in making calls, or they can pre-set either one. In receiving calls, on the other hand, the handset automatically replies to both incoming calls for PHS and PDCN furthermore, when users are in the office, the handset functions as an extension telephone for the PBX/PHS system, and when they are at home, it functions as a digital cordless phone.

3. PHS high-speed 64kbit/s data communications

Users can enjoy both 9.6kbit/s PDC data communications service and 64kbit/s PHS data communications service launched this April. Therefore, users can choose 9.6kbit/s PDC service when they are traveling by bullet trains, etc., and when they are in fixed locations, they can use 64kbit/s PHS service. In addition, users can access a range of e-mail services(*) offered by NTT DoCoMo.
(*): A connecting device, such as “Pocket Board,” is required for using these e-mail services.

4. Additional functions

This new model comes with a variety of functionality. Among these are the “manner mode,” which tentatively mutes the ringing tone in public places; the “D (drive) mode,” which rejects all the incoming calls when driving; and a ringing tone in one’s melody of choice.
Making full use of the PDC’s large area coverage and PHS’s smaller but denser area coverage, “Doccimo” enables user communications on streets lined with tall buildings, in underground malls, when traveling by car or train, and in the suburbs.

5. Phone charge packages