By Sam Stavis
Daily Staff Reporter
Some students came for free pretzels and soda. Others came to check out the latest in wireless communication technology.
Whatever the reason, the Motorola Expo held in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Atrium yesterday drew a large crowd, amusing spectators with displays, demonstrations and prize give-aways.
Motorola, one of the world's largest suppliers of wireless communications and advanced electronic systems, held the event to increase the University's awareness of the company and its various technologies.
"The purpose of the event is to ensure that the students of this University understand the broadness of Motorola technology," said Roberta Gutman, Motorola's vice president and director of global diversity.
While students were invited to drop off their resumes, no interviews were conducted at the event, to the dismay of several hopeful job-hunters.
Charlene Johnson, who handles university paging relations for Motorola, said the expo was "not a recruiting event."
One of the main attractions at the event was the "Code Red" exhibit, where Motorola displayed its latest customized communications packages, drawing the audience in with the catchphrase, "heroes wanted."
Intended mainly for emergency use, Code Red technology is designed for the rapid, uninterrupted transfer of important information - such as criminal files for police officers on the street, or secure digital channels for confidential political conversations.
"We're giving mission-critical data to the user," said Andy Stankoskey, manager of Motorola's wireless systems development.
Another popular exhibit showcased Motorola's latest two-way and alphanumeric pagers.
Ranging from tiny, brightly-colored units for teenagers to clam-shell, computer-like business devices, the prices of the pagers varied according to their size and function.
Motorola's most advanced two way pager comes complete with a mini-keyboard and liquid crystal display and can connect to the Internet via Motorola's wireless server.
Overall, the crowd was pleased with the combination of free food, prizes and high-tech goodies.
"It's interesting to see new products," said Rackham student Craig Wilson. He also said he enjoyed the opportunity "to talk to people in the workplace."
Engineering sophomore Dave Ostreicher, who is interning with Motorola this summer, said he attended the event to familiarize himself with the company's technology.
"It is interesting, and the people are really knowledgeable," said Ostreicher, who also won a prize at the event.
03-20-98
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