WLAN Chip Set Hits New Lows In Size And Power Consumption

Less is more, and Philips Semiconductors' new wireless local-area-network (WLAN) chip set proves it. It offers not only the lowest standby power of 3 mW but also the smallest form factor and the highest integration of any Wi-Fi chip set available.

The set consists of the BGW100, a complete single RF system, and the SA2443 baseband processor and media-access controller chip with integrated ARM7 controller, memories, and intelligent power management hardware and software algorithms. Requiring fewer than 30 external components, the entire solution uses less than 300 mm² of board space, which is at least 50% smaller than comparable solutions.

Targeting smaller, more portable communications and infotainment devices, this set lets users access data, the Internet, and multimedia content through standard 802.11b networks without compromising battery life. Sampling in the fourth quarter of this year, volume production will be available in the first quarter of 2004. The expected price is $12 in 10,000-unit lots.