3Com and HP Simplify Wireless Connectivity With Bluetooth Solutions for Mobile Users

Companies Working Together to Equip Notebook PCs and Printers with Bluetooth Technology.

Simplifying the way people connect personal electronic devices, 3Com Corporation (Nasdaq:COMS) and Hewlett-Packard Company (NYSE:HWP) announced today that 3Com's wireless Bluetooth(TM) solution will be embedded in HP Omnibook and HP Pavilion notebook PCs. This solution also is compatible with the forthcoming HP Deskjet 995c -- the industry's first integrated Bluetooth inkjet printer.

Bluetooth is an open, global standard for radio links which provides simple, wireless connections between PCs, handhelds, mobile phones, printers and many other devices, as well as allowing those devices access to network resources. With this technology, exchanging files in a conference room or checking email on the road can be accomplished without cables and in a matter of seconds.

With Bluetooth-enabled HP Omnibook and HP Pavilion notebook PCs, users can take advantage of other Bluetooth devices and download e-mail via their mobile phone, synchronize personal digital assistants (PDAs), share files and print without carrying or connecting any cables. The forthcoming HP Deskjet 995c will allow users to print without cables from up to 10 meters (approximately 30 feet) away from other devices enabled for Bluetooth printing.

On May 29, 3Com introduced its wireless Bluetooth PC card based on the newly ratified 1.1 specification. This specification includes a number of enhancements to the original 1.0 specification and is intended to ensure compatibility among Bluetooth products regardless of the vendor. The 3Com(R)Wireless Bluetooth PC Card features a radically simple Connection Manager(TM) for Bluetooth software application and an innovative antenna design. HP plans to offer this PC card beginning July 1 as part of a compilation of Bluetooth products including printer accessories and third-party CompactFlash(TM) Bluetooth module cards for HP Jornada handheld and Pocket PCs.

"We are excited to be working with HP on expanding the availability of Bluetooth-enabled personal devices," said Rick Maule, vice president and general manager of the Mobile Connectivity Division at 3Com. "Bluetooth is an integral component of 3Com's complete communications solutions that enable simple, reliable and secure mobile connectivity."

"HP is working to provide consumers with simplified connectivity across a broad range of wired and wireless products," said Diana Bell, vice president and general manager, HP Mobile Computing Division. "3Com's Bluetooth solution integrated with HP notebook PCs and compatible with the HP Deskjet 995c offers customers simple, reliable cable-free connections to a wide variety of Bluetooth-enabled devices."

About HP

Hewlett-Packard Company -- a leading global provider of computing and imaging solutions and services -- is focused on making technology and its benefits accessible to individuals and businesses through simple appliances, useful e-services and solutions for an Internet infrastructure that's always on. HP had total revenue from continuing operations of $48.8 billion in its 2000 fiscal year. Information about HP and its products can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.hp.com.

About 3Com Corporation

3Com simplifies how people connect to information and services through
easy-to-use, connectivity products and solutions for consumers and commercial organizations. The company also provides access infrastructures and IP services platforms for network service providers. For further information, visit www.3com.com or the press site at www.3com.com/pressbox.