ICC/Unitech Offers Noise-Free, Hands-Free Cell Phone Alternative

PowerPlus Phone System Allows Users to Comply With State Laws While Continuing To Talk on the Road July 16 /PRNewswire/ -- As the debate over cell phone use on the nation's highways continues, one Chicago-based company has introduced a product that provides the sound quality necessary to hold a normal conversation while leaving both hands free to grip the wheel. ICC/Unitech's PowerPlus digital speakerphone system converts the most popular cellular phones into hands-free units through a simple cord that connects the phone and the vehicle's cigarette lighter outlet. The design reduces background noise normally associated with speakerphones, while the in-vehicle speaker provides ample volume to carry on a normal conversation without straining to hear. All while conveniently and continuously charging the phone's battery.

The hands-free option has drawn interest in recent weeks as states consider banning the use of hand-held phones in moving vehicles. New York was the first to pass such a law, and legislation is pending in 39 additional states. The New York law allows the use of hands-free units in moving vehicles, and allows dismissal of a ticket if the violator provides proof of a hands-free unit purchase during the grace period that concludes November 1. Although the objective is to reduce distractions, users need to exercise caution when purchasing these items, says Steve McClure, Chief Operating Officer for ICC/Unitech.

"Sound quality is a major factor in the level of distraction provided by a conversation," McClure says. "If you have to strain to hear, or repeat segments of a discussion because the other person can't hear, it can take your attention away from driving. Yet that's the experience most people associate with hands-free units. We designed the PowerPlus to eliminate those distractions, making it easy to hold a normal conversation, as though the person is right in the car."

The ICC/Unitech PowerPlus incorporates a miniature, high quality omnidirectional digital microphone that's built in-line with the cell phone. This design conveniently places the microphone close to the driver when the unit is mounted on the dash with the easy-installation mount. The microphone is designed to boost normal voice frequencies while tuning out background noise, creating a clearer conversation. It also eliminates the echo often associated with speakerphone designs but which are often the fault of the handsets or systems.

On the receiving end, the separate speaker section has an independent volume control that works with the phone's volume control to assure the person on the other end can be heard over the ambient noise in the vehicle. The speaker section also includes a swivel mount that permits the driver to direct the sound while keeping it out of the way of other vehicle controls.

The PowerPlus digital speaker phone system is available at leading cell phone, airtime provider and electronics retailers. It is also sold under the Fellowes brand. It is available for many top makes of phones such as Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, Ericsson, and Sanyo.

About International Components Corporation:
International Components Corporation (ICC), based in Chicago, is a leading expert in portable power, rechargeable batteries, and hands-free cellular phone technology. With over 30 years experience, ICC is dedicated to the design, development and manufacturing of power systems for the world's top cellular, communications, power tool, computer and other consumer products companies. By working closely with the rechargeable battery industry, ICC is able to help design, develop and manufacture battery chargers for new and existing chemistries such as Lithium Ion, Lithium Polymer, Nickel Metal Hydride, Nickel Cadmium and Sealed Lead Acid. For more information, visit the ICC Web site at http://www.icc-charge.com or call 312-829-2525.

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SOURCE International Components Corporation