The STLC4420 is a highly integrated WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) device capable of operating in the 5GHz, as well as the 2.4GHz, frequency bands, and supporting both OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) and CCK (Complementary Code Keying) signal modulations. It is designed expressly for mobile platforms, including cellular and Wi-Fi phones, PDAs, laptop computers and cameras, and matches the ultra-low operating power consumption requirements of these applications with a 30µW sleep mode.
STMicroelectonics’ "intelligent power management," which includes the IEEE 802.11 power-save mode, enables rapid mode switching from deep sleep to high-speed packet transmission. Other embedded functions include an ARM9-based MAC (Media Access Controller), digital baseband, and ZIF (Zero IF) transceiver. The application component count is extremely low, as a result of the high level of integration and the fact that the device is housed in an advanced, space-efficient package.
The STLC4550 shares the features and performance of the dual-band STLC4420, but without the 5GHz IEEE 802.11a capability. Its device measures 8.5-by-8-by-1.4 mm, and integrates passive components—making the overall footprint extremely small. Both products offer integrated WLAN/Bluetooth coexistence, using a PTA (Packet Traffic Arbitration) algorithm, to allow the simultaneous exchange of audio and video or data.
ST offers manufacturers a complete WLAN hardware and software solution, with source code in house. Both new devices are supported by key software drivers, firmware, and test suites, which are optimized for mobile platforms and for operating systems including Symbian, WinMobile, and Linux. Supported reference code is available to customers for evaluation in new designs.
The interface between both devices and their host processor is through a mode selectable SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or SDIO (Secure Digital I/O) interface. For maximum flexibility, and to minimize cost, system reference clock frequencies of 19.2, 26, 38.4 and 40 MHz are accepted. Either device is easily integrated with all leading processor platforms, including ST's Nomadik family of mobile multimedia application processors.
AVAILABILITYEngineering samples of both the STLC4420 and STLC4550 WLAN ICs have already been shipped to key customers. Volume production is planned for Q4 2006. PRICING
Pricing is $9.00 and $8.50, respectively, for quantities of 100k units. FOR MORE INFORMATION
View the data sheet for the STLC4550
View the data sheet for the STLC4420