A wireless keyboard offers complete control of the system while broadband EVDO data services, with data rates ranging from 400 Kbps to 2.4 Mbps, and a marinized, amplified antenna for extended range provide two-way, mobile connections.

The result will be the first in-motion product to offer mariners easy-to-use, high-speed Internet access on the television screens already installed on boats. KVH's Mobile Internet Receiver with MSN TV service will also include WiFi output to provide Internet connectivity to any WiFi-enabled laptop or other product.

"Today's consumers expect to be able to stay connected while they're on the go in their vessels," said Sam Klepper, general manager for the MSN TV division at Microsoft. "With the availability of MSN TV service on KVH's Mobile Internet Receiver, consumers will now be able to communicate, access information, and enjoy digital entertainment where their travels take them."

"There is clearly a demand in the marine industry for mobile access to live media ranging from satellite TV to broadband Internet," said Martin Kits van Heyningen, KVH's president and chief executive officer.

"High-speed, mobile Internet access will enable mariners to access a huge array of valuable resources, including online charts, weather reports, Coast Guard updates, and information about local marinas or the local fishing spots. Plus, e-mail and instant messaging will permit everyone onboard to stay in touch with family, friends, and co-workers on shore. The color TV screens already found on most boats longer than 25 feet provide an excellent platform not only for live satellite TV and gaming, but also for an integrated Internet solution.

KVH looks forward to working with Microsoft on the Mobile Internet Receiver with MSN TV service that will leverage these screens and MSN TV technology to offer boaters an affordable, reliable source of two-way, in-motion Internet access."

Boat owners and passengers will be able to enjoy in-motion connections to a variety of MSN communication, information and entertainment services. The high-speed connection, offered by an EVDO (Evolution Data Optimized) data modem that KVH is integrating into the Mobile Internet Receiver, will leverage existing broadband data services offered by several major cellular companies.

Connection speeds for EVDO service are similar to residential DSL broadband service, with a maximum speed of 2.4 Mbps and typical speeds of 400 Kbps to 700 Kbps. A marinized, amplified antenna will provide extended range for vessels cruising farther offshore. When EVDO is unavailable, the system will automatically switch to standard 1xRTT data service, which is available in most cellular coverage areas. 1xRTT has a maximum upload and download speed of 144 Kbps, and typical speeds of 50 Kbps to 80 Kbps.

by using EVDO services for connectivity along with built-in WiFi output, the vessel is turned into a floating, mobile hot spot. As a result, boaters will be able to surf the web while relaxing on deck or anywhere onboard using WiFi-enabled laptop computers, PDAs and other devices using an Internet browser, e-mail application or instant messaging tool.

For boaters traveling outside the range of EVDO service, KVH also offers a full line of TracPhone satellite communication systems that deliver satellite-based broadband Internet service from Inmarsat virtually worldwide.

The hardware and service are expected to be available for purchase in mid-2006. Pricing for the Mobile Internet Receiver with MSN TV service will be announced at a later date.

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