Collaboration on small Wi-Fi module

Conexant Systems and Sharp have developed what they claim is the world's smallest and lowest standby power wireless local area network (WLAN) module.

The jointly developed Wi-Fi module is fully compliant with the IEEE 802.11b/g standard, and is targeted at products for embedded mobile applications including cellular/WLAN handsets.

The two companies leveraged Conexant's power-efficient CX3110X integrated circuit and Sharp's advanced micro packaging technology to develop the compact module. The module will be distributed by both Conexant and Sharp.

"Low power and small form factor are critical parameters for embedded mobile applications. Sharp's innovative packaging technology and our proficiency in WLAN technology allowed us to solve these challenges, and deliver a high-performance solution that will allow product developers to quickly integrate Wi-Fi into new and existing products. In addition, we can leverage this leading-edge, low-power product to span all industry standards including 802.11n. "said Chee Kwan, vice president and general manager of Wireless Networking for Conexant.

Sharp and Conexant have a long-standing strategic relationship. Previous product engagements include Sharp's development of the industry's first wireless video adaptor, which is also based on Conexant's WLAN technology. The adaptor allows users to send video from sources such as PCs and video camcorders to a wireless LCD television.

According to industry analyst firm InStat, shipments of Wi-Fi enabled consumer devices including cellular handsets, PDAs, games and other handheld products is expected to exceed 180 million units in 2009.

The co-developed, small footprint WLAN module is less than 100 square mm, and leverages Conexant's intelligent PowerSave technology to deliver more than 600 minutes of talk time and 300 hours of standby mode. Software features include an embedded thin driver that enables easy integration into a host system.

Conexant's CX3110X is a standards-compliant, fully integrated wireless radio. The company also offers an extensive suite of WLAN solutions including IEEE 802.11 and dual-band (2.4 and 5 GHz) chipsets, firmware, software, drivers and reference designs. The company's PRISM GT semiconductor solution supports data transmission rates up to 54 Mbps. It is Wi-Fi-certified and fully compliant to IEEE 802.11b and IEEE 802.11g standards. The chipset's cost and performance advantages make it well-suited for high-bandwidth consumer applications such as wireless video transfers, advanced home networking applications and multi-channel CD-quality audio and DVD-quality video streaming.