Wireless Communications

Get Telecommunications Training From Wireless Communications Schools

2008-09-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Wireless communications schools offer courses of study for certificates and degrees in telecommunications technology. As communications technologies continue to grow and expand, there will be a continuing need for well-prepared technicians who have attained an education in wireless communications. Good training can teach you to design, install, and maintain equipment for mobile and digital telephones, and other media.

Schools for wireless communications train technicians in multimedia applications of this technology, including low-power analog, digital, and radio frequency circuitry. Courses will cover advanced topics such as smart antennas; speech, video, and image compression communication theory; and management and control policies of communication networks.

Training in wireless communications prepares students for entry into many fields of communications, while employment opportunities continue to grow the world over at an astonishingly rapid rate. Technicians can enjoy long and varied careers. State-of-the-art training is essential for keeping abreast of the discipline for a long time to come.

Graduates will find work in local broadcast stations, multinational media conglomerates, and utility companies. Another source of employment is with all branches of the armed forces, where communications technologies are vital to defense and survival.

If you are interested in learning more about this fascinating field, you can find some good schools for wireless communications on our website today and submit a request for more information to help you get started.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on our website.

Copyright 2008 - All rights reserved by Media Positive Communications, Inc.

Notice: Publishers are free to use this article on an ezine or website, provided the article is reprinted in its entirety, including copyright and disclaimer, and ALL links remain intact and active.

Michael Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc. Find Wireless Communications Schools, as well as Colleges, Universities, Vocational Schools, and Online Schools at SchoolsGalore.com, your educational resource to locate schools.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Bustamante

Wireless Communications Vocational Schools

2008-09-10T22:02:00.002-07:00

Wireless Communications Vocational Schools offer courses of study for diplomas and associate degrees in wireless technology. As wireless communications technology continues to explode in growth and uses of wireless technology expands, there is a continuous need for well-educated technicians who know how to design, install, and maintain equipment for mobile and wireless communications, digital telephones, and other media.

Vocational school training in wireless communications will likely include the study of low-power analog, digital, and radio frequency circuitry; speech, video, and image compression communication theory; management and control policies of communication networks; smart antennas; and multimedia applications of wireless communications technology.

Wireless communications training will prepare students for entry into the field wireless communications, which continue to grow throughout the world at astonishingly rapid rates. Professionals in wireless communications technology will enjoy long and varied careers, and training in wireless communications will continue to be valuable for a long time to come.

Graduates of wireless communications programs will work for a local broadcast stations, a multinational media conglomerates, a utility companies, and branches of the armed forces, where communications technology are vital to combat survival.

If you are interested in learning more about Wireless Communications Vocational Schools, please search our site for more in-depth information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2006 - All Rights Reserved
Michael Bustamante, in association with Media Positive Communications, Inc. for SchoolsGalore.com

Notice to Publishers: Please feel free to use this article in your Ezine or on your Website; however, ALL links must remain intact and active.

M. Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc. in association with SchoolsGalore.com. Find Wireless Communications Schools at SchoolsGalore.com; meeting your needs as your educational resource to locate schools.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Bustamante

Wireless Communications Training Is Readily Available

2008-09-10T22:02:00.001-07:00

The multiple uses for wireless technology in today's society are literally exploding. If you are seriously looking for an occupation that offers plenty of well-paying jobs, now is the time to look into wireless communications training. You can quickly learn how to design, install, and maintain equipment for mobile and wireless devices, such as digital telephones and laptop computers.

Training in wireless communications will generally cover the various applications of communications technology; low-power analog, digital, and radio frequency circuitry; speech, video, and image compression communication theory; smart antennas; and control policies and management of communication networks, among other subjects.

You will be qualified to apply for plenty of jobs in communications once you have completed your education in wireless communications. Television stations, radio stations, online radio stations, and all other areas of broadcasting are eager to consider those with advanced expertise. Just imagine how exciting your day will be when you become an expert in wireless technologies!

Yes, training in wireless communications is readily available in vocational schools, trade schools and community colleges. There are also many traditional colleges and universities that house wireless communications schools. So, there is no reason to put it off any longer. Search our website and you will find schools offering the education in wireless communications. Submit a request for more information and you could soon be on your way to a lucrative and long-lasting career.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Get Telecommunications Training From Wireless Communications Schools

2008-09-10T22:02:00.000-07:00

Ways to Locate an Old Friend Using Reverse Phone Lookups

2008-08-06T23:17:00.004-07:00

There may come a time when you want to locate a long lost friend or an old acquaintance. Your first instinct will likely be to access the Internet and try looking up your friend with the assistance of a general search engine. Although this is the logical first choice, if you have your old friend's phone number, you may want to try searching this information to start.

Did you know that you can actually use your friend's phone number to track them down? Believe it or not, but there is so much more to a phone number than it being a numerical code that enables telecommunication. Through a person's phone number you can actually find out some pretty valuable information including:

- Name

- Street number and address

- City

-State

- Zip code

- Phone carrier

What if the number I have is really dated and my friend no longer uses this phone number? Since you don't actually know the answer to this question, the best way to solve it is to enter their 10-digit phone number into a reverse phone search query. This can be found on a variety of websites that offer this service. If you are having trouble finding one, lookup "reverse phone trace" in a standard Internet search.

If you are not provided with any results, it could be that you entered the number in wrong or it might be unlisted, which means it is not published in a public phone directory. Double check to make sure all digits are where they should be. If they are, it's time to take your search to a reverse cell phone lookup.

Unfortunately, if you want to gain access to a wireless subscribers name and/or address, you will be subject to a small cost to access the directory that contains this information. The reason is the company had to pay and organize the data they have collected, so they charge a simple convenience fee to those who wish to gain entry.

This may not sound appealing, but a cell phone lookup may be your only option depending on the data you are looking for.

Travis Craig writes informative articles about phone number searches, area codes layouts, and how to find out more information about them. To find more information on the caller location of any U.S. phone number--including more about free reverse phone lookups--visit http://www.FreeCellPhoneLookups.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Travis_Craig

Ways to Locate a Relative Using Their Phone Number

2008-08-06T23:17:00.003-07:00

You have it all planned out. You are going to throw your parents a surprise anniversary party and want to invite all of your relatives. However, there's a problem, you don't know how to locate a few of them. You can't consult your parents because you don't want to ruin the surprise, and you don't want to ask other family members in case they accidentally let something slip. What should you do? Use your relative's phone number to help you track them down.

You can find virtually anyone through their phone number, regardless if it belongs to a traditional landline phone or a cellular. The reason is because when a person subscribes to a phone service and obtains a number, in exchange they provide the telecommunications company with some of there personal details including their name, and billing address (typically the address where they live). In the case of unlisted numbers (I.E. mobile phones), this information is kept private, but these same details linked to listed landline numbers is made publicly available. Thus, hopefully the number you have of your relatives' falls into this free category.

However, if the number is related to a private wire line or cell phone, you can still search for it and find the data you want. You simply need to pay for it. How much will it cost? The fee is very small and is typically less than twenty dollars for single searches, and under forty dollars for a one year membership with unlimited lookups. Since the cost is not outrageous, and you are being charged simply because the company has also had to pay for the information they have collected and stored in their databases, you may find it well worth your time to choose the paid method.

If you decide to buy access to a directory, make sure the company you are using checks out and provides guarantees that they will help you track down the information you want if they don't' have it, or offer you a complete refund.

Are there any other ways to conduct a reverse phone lookup on a number? You can always attempt to search using a search engine, but when it comes down to it, a backwards phone trace is really the best way to locate your relatives without the additional searching hassle.

Travis Craig writes informative articles about phone number searches, area codes layouts, and how to find out more information about them. To find more information on the caller location of any U.S. phone number--including more about free reverse phone lookups--visit http://www.FreeCellPhoneLookups.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Travis_Craig

Analog Vs Digital - What in God's Creation is Analog? And Why Do We Need Digital?

2008-08-06T23:17:00.002-07:00

The U.S. broadcast system is embarking on a transition that is the result of technological advancements. It will make better use of resources most importantly our broadband spectrum and enhance the quality of our broadcasting. Although complicated at a glance, the transition has been a progression over a number of years and will leave no one in a compromising position!

Analog televisions send signals which tell the TV's electron gun how to portray lines on the screen. Unfortunately, this signal degrades during transmission. Analog signals are affected by changes in physical phenomena, for example, temperature, position, pressure, sound and light. This lessons the amount of fine detail in the image. Digital televisions use bit streams, lines of data consisting of ones and zeros, to send this same information. Digital signals do not degrade, therefore the picture is much better on a digital television set. They do have limitations in resolution and bandwidth similar to Analog. It is difficult to detect when degradation occurs in an analog signal but a digital systems' degradation can not only be detected but repaired.

This knowledge enables us to immediately choose the television which will yield the better picture with all things being equal. However, the source signal also needs to be considered. As sources go, Analog is good, Analog cable is better and Digital cable/Digital satellite is best. According to an article titled TV Buying Guide by Robert Valdes, "a DVD will look better on a low-end television than an analog broadcast antenna signal will look on a high-end HDTV. That is because the quality of the digital signal sent to the analog set is far superior to the analog signal sent to the digital HDTV."

In response to technological advances in digital programming, we are seeing a complete transition from Analog to Digital. This transition has been a long time coming! In 1996 U.S. Congress authorized an additional broadcast channel to each broadcast TV station so they could simultaneously broadcast analog and digital. U.S. Congress later announced that February 17, 2009 would be the last day for full power television stations to broadcast in analog. In 2006, all new televisions which were 25" or larger were required to be DTV ready. The requirement was then expanded in March 2007 to include all new televisions 13" or larger.

The switch to solely Digital broadcasting will free up significant portions of our valuable broadcast spectrums. This can be used for public safety communications as well as auctioned to companies who provide wireless services etc. This transition will also allow a broadcaster to offer super sharp high definition programming or multiple standard definition programs through a process referred to as multicasting. Multicasting allows a broadcaster to offer several channels of digital programming at the same time using the same amount of spectrum required for one analog program.

Analogue sets will need to employ the use of a Digital-to-Analog converter box after February 17, 2009. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is offering coupons for converter boxes which are valued at 40 dollars, limited to 2 per household. The cost of the converter boxes are estimated between 40 and 70 dollars. Furthermore, Digital TV sets are backward compatible which means that existing analogue equipment such as VCRs, DVD players, camcorders and computer game consoles will work on digital TV sets.

The U.S. is embarking on a transition that is the result of technological advancements. As of February 2009, we will make better use of resources most importantly our broadband spectrum and enhance the quality of our broadcasting. The transition has been a progression over a number of years and will leave no one in a compromising position!

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Free Cell Phone Number Trace - What the Freebies Provide

2008-08-06T23:17:00.001-07:00

Maybe you are searching for a way to trace that number that seems to be calling you all the time. Well believe it or not you can now legally trace any number you want. As a matter of fact; it you do a search on "free cell phone number trace" you will be bombarded with thousands of results coming back at you. However beware of the free sites; they may not always provide what you are looking for.

Sure we hate paying for something as a matter of fact if there is a free way to do something we are all for it. You may want to beware the free sites that promise you all the information that you are seeking about a particular number. These sites most likely will not be able to provide you the information that you seek. Unfortunately if you really want to know who is on the other end of the phone; you must be willing to pay a small fee to find out.

A free cell phone number trace which there are still quite a few sites that offer this service; you are most likely only going to be able to find out the name of the provider of the service and where the provider is located. You may or may not be able to discover the name of the person who owns the actual phone number. Besides most of the free sites will not be able to provide you with any information about a cell phone number. They do not have the information necessary to trace a mobile number.

To trace a cell phone number it takes a database that is kept updated to provide you with all the accurate and comprehensive information. The free services are not going to pay the money to keep them updated and then let you trace a number for free.

Now if you are tracing a land line number; you can easily find the information online. Most land line information is available to the public; unless it is an unlisted number.

With Reverse Phone Detective you can easily trace cell phone, unlisted and land line numbers; and it only takes two minutes to find out the information that you are looking for. Yes it is going to cost you money; however you can expect to receive the most accurate and comprehensive information on the number that you put in.

This service has some of the most updated databases around. If you do a search on google you will easily see that this is one of the top companies that provide this service. As a matter of fact it is one of the few that comes with a guarantee that the information you receive on the number you put in is correct; otherwise you pay nothing.

If you found this article on "free cell phone trace - what the freebies provide" helpful; visit our site below. You can easily find out who keeps calling you and your loved ones in less than two minutes!

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Great Calls and Great Savings For Expats

2008-08-06T23:17:00.000-07:00

Prepaid calling cards have been popular and useful to expats who choose to stay in another country. It is important for them to keep in touch with family and while they are away. Telecommunication companies have found this need of customers to make international and local calls. They offer a variety of calling methods and prepaid calling card is one among the many.

A prepaid calling card was found to have cheaper rates. You pay lesser compared to using your telephones at home to make overseas calls. It is also accessible because it can be purchased in your nearest stores, shopping centers and in the web. The Internet offers hundred of prepaid calling card brands, companies and service providers competing with the lowest rates to make calls. Just be sure that they can give you the best service that you wanted and the company that can give you better rates. Don't just trust big names in the business because sometimes, there are still lots of smaller companies that offer lower rates.

These cards are also reliable to place your calls. They have better calling quality since they use a certain technology that assures you of a crystal clear voice quality and no jittery sounds while on call. Service providers make sure that you won't encounter problems while you are using their card. If some difficulties arise, they have the 24 hours a day, seven days a week customer service that is ready to take your calls and give answers to your questions.

Mobile phones have also entered the telecommunication market today. They are handy and accessible also. Prepaid calling card companies have considered them as another option where a prepaid calling card can be used to make calls. Find a card that do no have extra charges when used in a mobile phone and also with the public pay phones in case you need to place an urgent call and you are in the streets.

If you made the right choice of your prepaid calling card, you are surely to enjoy making calls and talking to people who are far from you. Your longing for them will be eased if you heard their voice. It is even better since you can hear them clearly and you save some amount because your calls are cheaper. This will make your calling experience easy and unforgettable.

Febe is a freelance phone card expert that reviews quality International calling cards that offer cheap prepaid calling card rates.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Febe_Sumayo

2008 Driving Laws Target Minors And Cell-Phones

2008-04-10T23:21:00.000-07:00

In 2008 six states have new driving laws going into effect that relate specifically to minors,cell-phone use and text messaging by drivers. Some of the new laws are secondary enforcement laws that will not be enforced unless the driver is violating a primary law such as speeding, reckless driving or running a red light. All of the new laws listed below provide exceptions for emergencies, reporting illegal activity and use by public safety officials.

California has two new driving laws that relate to hands-free cell-phone use and minors. The first law is called Senate Bill 1613 and goes into effect on July 1 st 2008. The new driving law prohibits the use of a wireless telephone while driving unless a hands-free device is used as a talking and listening device. The other new California driving law is Senate Bill 33. This law prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using a wireless telephone or any mobile device while operating a motor vehicle. Unlike the other new California driving law, there are no exceptions for hands-free devices.

Illinois also has two new driving laws that will go into effect on January 1 st , 2008. One of the new laws is Senate Bill 140. This bill prohibits drivers under the age of 19 from using any type of hand-held communication device such as a cell-phone or text messaging device while operating a motor vehicle. The other new law falls under the same bill and prohibits school bus drivers from using a cell-phone while the bus is transporting children to and from school.

Nebraska has their first cell-phone legislation going into effect on January 1 st , 2008. Legislative Bill 415 prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using a wireless communication device while driving. This legislation includes personal digital assistants (PDA's), mobile or cellular telephones, messaging devices, audio-video players that send or receive messages, and laptop computers. This bill is a secondary enforcement law.

New Jersey has had a hands-free law since 2004, but in November of 2007 the law has been amended from a secondary enforcement law to a primary law. This means a driver that violates the hands-free cell phone law can be pulled over and ticketed solely on the basis of using a cell-phone without a hands-free device. The amendment also prohibits text-messaging while driving. The text-messaging portion of the bill is effective on March 3 rd , 2008.

Oregon has passed a new law that goes into effect on January 1 st , 2008. Oregon House Bill 2872 prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using any type of mobile communication device while they are operating a motor vehicle. The law includes text-messaging device and does not include an exception for hands-free devices. The law includes drivers under 18 and driving with a provisional driver's license, a special student or instruction permit. This new law is only enforceable as a secondary offense.

Washington State has two new driving laws that relate to cell-phone use and text-messaging. The text-messaging ban begins the January 1 st 2008. This new law is called EHB 1214 and it prohibits the use of an electronic wireless communications device to send, read or write a text message. The other new law is ESSB 5037. This new driving law goes into effect on July 1 st, 2008 and prohibits drivers from holding a wireless communication device to their ear. There are exceptions for tow truck drivers, emergency vehicles and talking in hands-free mode. The two new laws in Washington State are secondary enforcement laws. If you are ticketed for text-messaging, the infraction will not become part of your driving record and the information is given to insurance companies or employers.

BT Cordless Phones - For Wireless Communication

2008-04-10T23:20:00.000-07:00

The cordless phones have taken the communication to the 'next' level. Unlike conventional landline phones, they do not restrict the users to talk within a limited space. As a matter of fact, with these wireless phones, one can talk easily from one room to another. The cordless phones are backed with the features of freedom and mobility. Among a wide spectrum of manufacturers of cordless phones, BT is one of the leading in the world. With sleek dimensions and useful features, the BT cordless phones are turning out to be perfect for both home and office use.

Let us now consider the technical specifications of a BT cordless phone. These phones comprise of a base unit and a handset. Ones from BT are sleek and sophisticated in their looks. The sophisticated design of a BT cordless phone blends perfectly with its array of advanced and innovative features. Usually, wireless phones from the BT are backed with user-friendly interface options. The remote access feature, present in many such handsets, allows the users to operate these wireless phones from even remote areas. Other features that attract the users are 30 call log, wall mount, caller ID, SIM card and alarm clock. The large screen of the phone is excellent for viewing the messages and contact numbers.

The wireless phones from BT also comprise of certain functionalities pertaining to sending and receiving of messages. On these cordless phones, the users can enjoy easy playback of recorded messages as well as specialised feature for redialing of frequently dialed numbers. This ensures convenience while redialing the phone number. Moreover, these phones can also be personalised using the caller ID tunes and ringtones as well - this makes the handsets all the more user-friendly and attractive.

Quite a few of these models from BT come with integrated answering machines. This feature ensures that users can check the information pertaining to missed, received or dialed calls. The users of the high-end BT cordless phones can also lock the keypad and protect the device from misuse. With a full charged battery, one can enjoy long & uninterrupted hours of talk time.

Understanding The Magic of Bluetooth Technology

2008-04-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

Bluetooth technology is a low-power, low-cost wireless technology for short-range radio communication between various fixed and/or portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, PDAs, cars, stereo headsets, MP3s, digital cameras, PCs and computer peripherals. Bluetooth also refers to the standard communication protocol (IEEE 802.15.1) specifically designed for this kind of short-range wireless communication.

The core of Bluetooth technology lies in a low-cost 9 mm x 9 mm microchip that functions as a short-range radio link when inserted into an electronic device, making the device Bluetooth-enabled. Wireless communication between various bluetooth-enabled devices takes place via these radio links, instead of via cables as used in normal networking. Since Bluetooth technology uses radio signals, which are omni-directional and can be transmitted through walls and other obstacles, Bluetooth-enabled devices don’t need to be in line of sight or be pointing at each other.

Bluetooth radio modules operate in the open, unlicensed ISM (industrial–scientific–medical) spread-spectrum 2.4 GHz frequency band, divided into 79 channels separated by 1 MHz each. To avoid interference from other signals, the Bluetooth signal hops to a new channel every time it transmits or receives a data packet, making Bluetooth connection robust and secure. The communication range of Bluetooth technology varies from 1 m to 100 m, depending upon the maximum power permitted (1 mW to 100 mW). Because of this channel hopping, there should not be a consistent problem with other devices using the 2.4 Ghz frequency band, such as old cordless phones.

Each Bluetooth-enabled device can simultaneously communicate with up to seven other devices within a single personal area network, called a piconet. Each device can simultaneously belong to several piconets. Each device negotiates with each other via a defined device name so that each device can keep track of who it is communicating with. The device name to use when you are setting up your Bluetooth device is typically cleared stated in the accompanying device documentation.

Bluetooth technology offers built-in security with 128-bit encryption and PIN code authentication. When Bluetooth products identify themselves, they use the PIN code the first time they connect, thereafter staying securely connected.

Practical Applications of Bluetooth Networking

Some of the popular applications of Bluetooth technology are in wireless networking between a mobile phone and a laptop/desktop, between a mobile phone and a hands-free headset, between PCs in a restricted space and between the input and output devices of a PC (e.g., mouse, keyboard, printer). Bluetooth technology can also be used to transfer files, images and MP3 files between mobile phones or between MP3 players/digital cameras and computers.

Limitations of Bluetooth Technology

Short communication range (up to 100 m) is the greatest limitation of Bluetooth technology. Also, the data transfer rates are much lower compared to other wireless communication technologies. Susceptibility to interference from other devices operating in the 2.4 MHz band, notwithstanding adaptive frequency hopping, is another limitation. The Bluetooth technology is still not fully developed, so there is plenty of room for improvement.

Bluetooth-Enabled Devices

The Bluetooth wireless technology specification is available free-of-charge to Bluetooth member companies around the world. Many companies are interested in making their devices Bluetooth-enabled in order to avoid the clutter of wires with seamless connections and offer simultaneous transmission of data and voice as in hands-free talking.

Bluetooth technology is commercially available in a wide range of applications such as mobile phones, automobiles, medical devices, play stations and many more.

The Advantages of a BMW Bluetooth Upgrade

2008-04-09T00:37:00.001-07:00

Even if you drive a late model BMW ('02 or newer), it may be time to consider a BMW Bluetooth upgrade. After all, Bluetooth is like any other digital technology - it is constantly being updated and refined. This technology will ensure that your vehicle's ability to integrate with your cell phone is up-to-date and ready for whatever may come next.

The Advantage of Bluetooth

If you're like many people on the go, your cell phone is on and at the ready almost every waking minute - including drive time. However, studies (and a few bitter experiences) have clearly demonstrated that attempting to use a cell phone while driving highly distracting and dangerous, posing a hazard to both driver and others on the road (in fact, in 2005, a woman in Portland, Oregon drove off a bridge and into the Willamette River while talking on a cell phone). Many states and municipalities are now passing laws prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving.

A BMW Bluetooth upgrade makes it possible - and legal - to use your cell phone while driving.

About Bluetooth

Named for the Viking king who briefly united the Scandinavian countries over a thousand years ago by the Swedish engineers who first developed it in the 1990s, Bluetooth technology actually has its roots in the work of early Gugleimo Marconi and Nicola Tesla and their pioneering work on wireless communications during the late 1800s. It is an industry standard protocol that allows wireless communication between computers, cell phones, digital cameras and more.

Unlike radio, Bluetooth is a very specific protocol for linking a variety of digital devices over a very short range; in addition, such communications can be encrypted so as to protect privacy. Today's BMW Bluetooth upgrade enables much stronger encryption to be maintained over connections that last a longer period of time (up to 23 hours and 20 minutes).

Features

With the new Bluetooth 2.1 and a headset, you'll enjoy total "hands-off" operation of your cell phone, because you can hear your incoming calls over your OEM radio, using the control buttons on your steering wheel.

This upgrade also means that you won't miss any more important calls, since it will automatically turn off any programming you may be listening to on your radio. The BMW Bluetooth upgrade is also very easy to install and very affordable. With "plug-and-play" capability, you'll be up and running in no time!

What's Available?

BMW Bluetooth upgrades are available for 3 Series, 5 Series and X5 vehicles manufactured between 2002 and 2006. It's a simple process to add safety and value to your fine vehicle today.

Wayne Hemrick answers all of your questions about a BMW Bluetooth upgrade. As a relatively new technology many individuals have questions about BMW Bluetooth installations and upgrades. Wayne installs the BMW Bluetooth kits professionally and provides experience and knowledge.

Mobile Cell Phone History - Wireless Communications

2008-04-09T00:36:00.000-07:00

Children today consider wireless phones as necessary and usual in daily life. They don't know a time without them being prevalent. But that was not the case in 1973 when Martin Cooper made his first cellular phone call from a New York City street and New Yorkers stared gaping at him. But the history of cell phone starts further back in time.

The history of cell phones or wireless communications must start with Samuel Morse. He introduced the concept of wireless by conduction when he transmitted a telegraph signal through water. His telegraph was the first device to transmit messages by electricity.

Then in 1843 a man by the name of Michael Faraday studied to see if space could conduct electricity. In 1865 a dentist, Dr. Mahlon Loomis was the first person to communicate through wireless via the atmosphere. He came up with the idea of transmitting and receiving messages using the atmosphere as a conductor and sending up kites covered with copper screens that were linked to the ground with copper wires. Loomis was awarded a $50,000 research grant by congress.

But let us move forward to the twentieth century and the invention of the cell or wireless phone as we know it today. This brings us to a man often referred to as the father of the cell phone, Martin Cooper. He was employed by Motorola and worked on developing the first hand held radios made for the Chicago police department in 1967. He then went on to lead Motorola's cellular research.

AT&T's, Bell Laboratories introduced the idea of cellular communication in 1947. Through the 60' and 70's Motorola and Bell Laboratories were in a race to incorporate the technology into portable devices.

On April 3, 1973 Martin Cooper won the race when he placed the first cell phone call to his rival at AT&T. Motorola introduced the 16-ounce "DynaTAC" phone into commercial service in 1983, at a cost to the consumer of $3,500. It weighed 2.5 lbs. took 10 hours to charge with 35 minutes of talk time. Features were limited to dial, listen and talk. This was commonly referred to as the Brick.

In 1977 cell phones went public. Chicago was the first city to trial cell phones with 2000 customers.

In 1983 Motorola, with the help of Martin Cooper, introduced the 16-ounce "DynaTAC" the first truly portable cellular phone. This phone took 15 years and a cost of over 100 million dollars to come to market. The cost to the consumer was $3500. It weighed 2.5 lbs., took 10 hours to charge and allowed 35 minutes of talk time. Features were limited to dial, listen and talk.

From 1983 to the late 1980"s 1st generation cellular or car phones as they were often called became very popular. Most were not hand held but rather installed in cars or bag phones.

In 1988 the CTIA (Cellular Technology Industry Association) was founded.

In the early 1990's second generation or 2G phones came onto the market. They were able to work on GSM, TDMA, and CDMA technology. 2G digital networks were online and replacing the analog network frequencies making them virtually obsolete. The phones became much smaller and portable and usage soared.

Currently third generation or 3G phones are the technology available today. 3G phones include innovations that allow them to receive more than just phone calls. For example Internet access and email capability and streaming video.

In December 2005 the wireless industry in the US surpassed the 200 million subscriber mark. In 2006 that number grew to 233 million subscribers with 12.8% of households being totally wireless. There are 195,613 cell sites making this possible.

Wireless Communications Vocational Schools

2008-04-09T00:35:00.000-07:00

Vocational school training in wireless communications will likely include the study of low-power analog, digital, and radio frequency circuitry; speech, video, and image compression communication theory; management and control policies of communication networks; smart antennas; and multimedia applications of wireless communications technology.

Wireless communications training will prepare students for entry into the field wireless communications, which continue to grow throughout the world at astonishingly rapid rates. Professionals in wireless communications technology will enjoy long and varied careers, and training in wireless communications will continue to be valuable for a long time to come.

Graduates of wireless communications programs will work for a local broadcast stations, a multinational media conglomerates, a utility companies, and branches of the armed forces, where communications technology are vital to combat survival.

If you are interested in learning more about Wireless Communications Vocational Schools, please search our site for more in-depth information and resources.

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Tiny RF module targets 433MHz ISM band

2008-03-01T03:18:00.000-08:00

The TinyOne Lite 433MHz offers customers a low-cost 433MHz radio solution for industrial applications up to 500m

The TinyOne OEM RF module family from One RF Technology now offers a choice of four ISM frequencies and four different firmware options, including ZigBee networking. Based on the TinyOne module family footprint, the TinyOne Lite 433MHz offers customers a low-cost 433MHz radio solution for industrial applications up to 500m.
The lower frequency allows the customers to benefit from better propagation through walls even at low output power levels.

The TinyOne Lite 433MHz OEM RF module measures 38 x 21 x 3mm and is a precertified SMD component.

Moreover, in addition to the company's standard firmware, the module is available off-the-shelf with the company's low-power mesh networking firmware - M-One Stack.

The M-One Stack is designed especially for constructing low-power long-range wireless mesh networks (sensor networks, irrigation, home control etc).

Within this type of a network, all the devices can communicate with each other using a robust address deployment protocol and a flexible hierarchy.

The network topology can be set either manually or using a fully automatic engine, with auto-association and auto-repair functionalities.

The TinyOne Lite 433MHz, as well as the other members of the TinyOne OEM RF module family, is currently available from One RF Technology and its distributors worldwide.

RF module allows long-range ZigBee networking

2008-03-01T03:08:00.000-08:00

The XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5 allows ZigBee mesh networking to be used for applications with large distances between nodes, like automated meter reading, asset management and remote sensor management

Digi International has rleeased the XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5, an extended-range RF module designed for ZigBee mesh networking at Embedded World in Nuremberg. The powerful XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5 provides up to 1.6k) RF line-of-sight transmission, significantly increasing the number of applications in which ZigBee mesh networking can be used.
It is the latest addition to Digi's Drop-in Networking product family and is fully compatible with any other XBee ZNet 2.5 Drop-in Networking product, including RF modules, adapters, wall routers and gateways.

'Because of the extended range, ZigBee mesh networking can now be used for applications where there is a greater distance between nodes like automated meter reading, asset management and remote sensor management', said Larry Kraft, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing, Digi International.

'The interoperability with Digi Drop-in Networking products and XBee modules also provides customers a tremendous amount of flexibility'.

The XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5 provides reliable, wireless data communication over ZigBee networks and satisfies the needs of low cost, low-power wireless applications.

It is a fully compatible, pin-swappable extended-range counterpart to the cost-optimised XBee ZNet 2.5 which provides up to 120m RF line-of-sight transmission.

The XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5 operates on the 2.4GHz ISM band, making it appropriate for use worldwide.

It is easy to use and ready to operate out of the box, will be available with four antenna options, has a small form factor and shares the XBee footprint.

XBee RF modules are part of Digi's line of Drop-in Networking solutions.

Drop-in networking products provide end-to-end connectivity to commercial-grade electronic devices in locations where wired infrastructure does not exist or satisfy customer needs.

ZigBee kit gains analysis software

2008-02-26T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Basic edition of Daintree's SNA software will be bundled with the One RF ZigBee Demo Case from December 2007

One RF Technology is working with Daintree Networks to offer ZigBee developers a powerful new combined solution. One RF Technology is effectively outsourcing development of ZigBee test tools by including Daintree's SNA software with its new ZigBee Demo Case. This enables One RF to place greater focus on its core area of expertise, and to accelerate their development of low-cost low-power ZigBee modules and embedded ZigBee application profiles.
'By allowing us to optimise our engineering capabilities, this partnership will not only decrease the time to market of our ZigBee radio solutions, but more importantly it will improve the customer experience thanks to the Daintree Networks' software tools', says Petteri Koskinen, Marketing Manager at One RF Technology.

'Moreover, the fact that the Daintree SNA is already compatible with Texas Instruments CC2420- and CC2430-based hardware bundled with the TI Z-Stack makes Daintree Networks the perfect partner for One RF Technology'.

The uTinyOne ZigBee OEM RF module from One RF Technology is based on the CC2430 SoC and it is available with the TI ZigBee or ZigBee Pro stack.
'We're pleased that One RF has chosen Daintree's SNA software to include with their new ZigBee kits, and we're looking forward to working more closely with them in the future', says Jason Choong, Director of Marketing at Daintree Networks and Chair of the ZigBee Alliance Commissioning Tools Task Group.

'An important part of this new partnership is the work we're doing to provide customers with a combined ZigBee commissioning solution'.

'Not only will the One RF kits take full advantage of the commissioning capabilities that have been added to recent SNA releases, but Daintree will also be given the opportunity to validate and improve our commissioning tools, and to provide customers with the best possible solution'.

The new ZigBee Demo Case is based on One RF Technology's certified ZigBee Compliant Platform (ZCP) and the in-house Z-One Stack (One RF ZigBee Stack 2006 V1.11).

Application profiles for I/O management and serial link emulation are included in the package.

The ZigBee Demo Case also features a functionality that allows ZigBee networks to be built and configured even without a PC.

Daintree's Sensor Network analyser (SNA) provides the industry's most comprehensive solution for both the development and deployment of IEEE 802.15.4 and ZigBee systems.

This standards-based tool keeps up-to-date with the latest ZigBee specifications to help ensure compliance and interoperability.

The Basic edition of Daintree's SNA software will be bundled with the One RF ZigBee Demo Case from December 2007.

A 30-day trial version of the fully-featured SNA Professional edition will also be provided (including 30 days of support from Daintree).

Amplifiers power up basestations

2008-02-25T05:12:00.000-08:00

The TMA series of tower mount (masthead) amplifiers from Eleading Technologies provides a balanced amplifier with bypass function

Providing excellent system performance and reliability in even the harshest environments, the TMA series of tower mount (masthead) amplifiers from Eleading Technologies provides a balanced amplifier with bypass function. Covering the primary GSM 890-915MHz receive band and the 935-960MHz transmit band, the TMA BTS low noise amplifier has a system gain of 12+/-1dB with minimum 1dB compression output power level of 10dBm and a noise figure of less than 1.6dB.
Insertion loss through the transmit path is 0.5dB maximum.

Input and output connectors are 50ohm 7/17 jacks and maximum return loss for both bands is 18dB (16dB in bypass mode).

Current consumption is 80-120mA at +12V DC supply.

Overall dimensions are 394 x 161 x 55mm.

Manufactured in China to the most rigorous standards by ETL's parent company GuangShun Electronics, the TMA series is RoHS compliant and provides an extremely cost effective solution for system installers.

Tiny RF module targets 433MHz ISM band

2008-02-22T23:01:00.000-08:00

Cellular modules enable shipboard communications

2008-02-20T04:52:00.000-08:00

Becker Marine Systems uses Sierra Wireless embedded modules in its umc.connect communication server

Becker Marine Systems has integrated the Sierra Wireless MC8780 and the MC5725 embedded modules into its umc.connect communication server, which provides a critical link for mariners worldwide who stay in touch using the Becker Marine Systems Communication umc.global network. The umc.global network combines wireless LAN, cellular communications and satellite communications into a single transparent global network and accompanying onboard communications system that can be accessed seamlessly by seagoing vessels.
As part of this onboard system, the embedded Sierra Wireless modules provide a 2G or 3G broadband mobile data connection for vessels near shore or in ports around the world.

'The umc.global network managed services provide huge cost savings for ship2shore and shore2ship communication, since it roams seamlessly between any satellite service towards any 2GSM, 3GSM and wireless LAN service available'.

'Thus, communication becomes much more cost effective, streamlines business operation and improves crew morale'.
'The Sierra Wireless MC8780 has been proven as the most robust and flexible module for the very harsh environment on seagoing vessels', says Thomas Mueller, Managing Director of Becker Marine Systems Communication.

'The umc.global network offers a vital link for mariners worldwide, who are often away from home for weeks or even months at a time', says Jim Lahey, Vice President, EMEA for Sierra Wireless.

'It's a classic example of how wireless connectivity can improve the ability of mobile workers to stay in contact with home and access the information they need wherever they are'.

The MC8780 embedded module offers triband UMTS/HSPA and quad-band GSM/GPRS/Edge network access for roaming on mobile broadband networks worldwide.

The MC8780 also offers receiver diversity and GPS support.

The MC5725 module offers connectivity to EV-DO Revision A networks and is compatible with EV-DO Release 0 and CDMA 1X networks for seamless connectivity in areas without EV-DO Rev A network coverage.

Designed for integration into notebook computers, fixed wireless terminals, and other devices requiring high-speed wireless connectivity, Sierra Wireless embedded modules are fully shielded and offer an operating temperature range of -25 to +60C to suit all applications.

Bluetooth module eases headset design

2008-02-18T04:27:00.001-08:00

Developers can easily implement a wireless solution into their product even with limited knowledge in Bluetooth and radio design

DataSoft has added WAH wireless audio headset firmware to its F2M03MLA multimedia Bluetooth module. The firmware is designed for easy connectivity to mobile phones incorporating the latest audio features in the Bluetooth technology. The following Bluetooth profiles are supported in WAH: A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP and SPP where all profiles are acting as the headset side for communication with for example mobile phones.
The firmware can either be controlled individually with a button interface or from an external microcontroller using the UART interface with easy-to-use AT commands.

By using the F2M03MLA developers can easily implement a wireless solution into their product even with limited knowledge in Bluetooth and radio design.

The module, which contains this new firmware, is fully Bluetooth v.2.0 qualified and is certified according to CE and FCC.

To evaluate or upgrade F2M03MLA modules, the evaluation kit F2M03M-KIT is available and with the Flash Utility generic application software, the user can easily change and upgrade the firmware as well as changing advanced settings on the Bluetooth module.

ZigBee module makes the Pro league

2008-02-18T04:23:00.000-08:00

The Telegesis ETRX2 is the world's first ZigBee Pro compliant module

The Telegesis ZigBee module product range has successfully achieved certification based on the ZigBee Pro feature set of the ZigBee standard. The widely acclaimed Telegesis AT Command layer has been tested by US test house National Technical Systems at its Culver City laboratories in California, USA, where Telegesis was granted ZigBee certification for their Manufacturer Specific Profile (MSP).
This makes the Telegesis ETRX2 the world's first ZigBee Pro compliant module.

All Telegesis ZigBee Pro products are built around the Ember EM250 chip with core mesh networking technology provided by Ember Corporation's EmberZnet 3.1 software.

EmberZNet Pro 3.1 was the first ZigBee software to support the ZigBee Pro Feature Set and it was one of three platforms to be granted a 'Golden Unit' status by the ZigBee Alliance.
Telegesis will be releasing its ZigBee Pro compliant products to beta customers during February 2008 with the whole Telegesis ZigBee Pro range expected to be generally available shortly afterwards.

According to Telegesis Managing Director Nicholas Gomersall: 'We are delighted to be the first company in the world to offer our customers certified ZigBee Pro compliance with our module range'.

'ZigBee is now a technology that is truly ready for use in real world applications and we envisage rapid expansion of our customer base throughout 2008 as ZigBee is applied to a wide range of wireless solutions'.

'Telegesis is our longest standing module partner and we are very pleased to see them achieving ZigBee Pro certification for their products', says Ember Vice President of Marketing, Bob Gohn.

'Ember customers now have the option of ZigBee Pro compliant modules to accelerate the development of their ZigBee solutions'.

ZigBee Alliance Chairman, Bob Heile, added: 'We congratulate Telegesis on being a leader in producing a ZigBee certified module based on the latest ZigBee feature set, ZigBee Pro'.

'The ZigBee Alliance expects many other ZigBee companies to begin certifying their own ZigBee products to meet the rapidly growing demand for ZigBee technology'.

'NTS is pleased to see manufacturers, such as Telegesis, bringing ZigBee Pro compliant products to market so quickly, and having them officially certified to verify that they meet the standards developed by the ZigBee Alliance', says Osman Sakr, Chief Technology Officer of NTS.

GPS receiver combines RF and antenna modules

2008-02-13T02:08:00.001-08:00

TDC's Antenova M10214 can track up to 20 satellites simultaneously and maintain a fix at speeds of more than 500m/s

TDC's latest GPS receiver is the world's first to combine RF and antenna modules on a single laminate base. The Antenova M10214 combines a SiRFStarIII-based GPS radio with closely coupled balanced antenna technology, creating a fully functioned receiver in a miniature 43 x 9 x 4mm package. Suitable for both L1-band GPS and assisted-GPS positioning systems, the module can track up to 20 satellites simultaneously and maintain a fix at speeds of more than 500m/s.
Time to first fix is less than 38s from a cold start, better than 35s from a warm start and hot acquisition time is under 2s.

This Flash ROM-based solution is supported by SiRF stand-alone software and has a built-in NMEA output for ready integration into products.

It operates from a single 3.6V supply, requiring only 45mA during acquisition and battery life is extended through a range of low-power modes down to 13uA in standby.

Frugal power consumption makes it an suitable drop-in solution for applications including PDAs, mobile phones and portable navigation devices.

Design-in to multifunction devices is facilitated by built-in filtering, which allows co-existence with GSM, CDMA/WCDMA, wireless LAN and Bluetooth signals.

The M10214 operates over the extended -25 to +85C temperature range, with a maximum altitude of 18km and accelerations up to 5G.

A development kit is available from TDC to accelerate design-in and reduce time to market.

It comprises an evaluation board and USB cable, together with two GPS modules, comprehensive data, application and design guides.

New ownership adds fresh impetus to M2M

2008-02-13T02:04:00.000-08:00

As part of Laird Technologies, Ezurio will be able to continue its explosive growth

Laird Technologies has acquired Ezurio, the privately held supplier of short range wireless M2M (machine-to-machine) devices. Ezurio's sales revenues in the 12 months ending 31st December 2007 were approximately US $8 million - an increase of 24% over the same period in 2006. Ezurio is a leading supplier of Bluetooth and 802.11 (Wi-Fi) embedded RF modules, as well as M2M solutions for wireless datacommunications applications serving the retail, automotive, healthcare, and other market segments including EPOS.
'Laird Technologies continues to broaden its range of electronic components and systems offered to customers, both through acquisition and organic growth', according to Laird Technologies CEO Martin Rapp.

'The acquisition of Ezurio further enhances our position in the supply of customised wireless communications systems for customers who want their products to communicate wirelessly but don't have an internal wireless development group'.

'Ezurio is very excited to become a part of Laird Technologies', says Chris Shannon, Ezurio CEO.

'By combining Ezurio's and Laird Technologies' RF products and delivering them through Laird Technologies' massive global presence, we will be able to continue our explosive growth in supplying technologically advanced wireless modules that deliver M2M solutions to OEMs globally'.

Wireless system provides network options

2008-02-11T00:20:00.000-08:00

The multifunction ConnectPort X4 provides ZigBee-to-cellular, ZigBee-to-Wi-Fi or ZigBee-to-Ethernet connectivity

Digi International has released the ConnectPort X4, a cost-effective wireless gateway designed to link ZigBee/802.15.4 device networks with IP networks over cellular, Wi-Fi or Ethernet connections. The ConnectPort X4 is the latest addition to Digi's Drop-in Networking product line, a combination of hardware components and software tools for network-enabling commercial grade devices where wired infrastructure does not exist or does not satisfy customer needs.
The multifunction ConnectPort X4 provides ZigBee-to-cellular, ZigBee-to-Wi-Fi or ZigBee-to-Ethernet connectivity.

'We consider the ConnectPort X4 as the likely workhorse in our ConnectPort X gateway product line', said Larry Kraft, Senior Vice President of global sales and marketing, Digi International.

'It offers customers another option in addition to our highly versatile ConnectPort X8 gateway, enabling long-range, end-to-end wireless device networking in a powerful and cost-effective package'.

The ConnectPort X4 provides full network flexibility including ZigBee/802.15.4, cellular, Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity.

It supports a broad set of cellular options including HSDPA, Edge, GPRS, 1XRTT and EV-DO.

The ConnectPort X4 also has a USB port for connectivity to devices like Digi's Watchport camera.

One model has an industrial grade NEMA 4/IP66 enclosure with Class 1, Division 2 certification for outdoor applications like tank monitoring, precision irrigation control and automated metering infrastructure (AMI).

Similar to all ConnectPort X products, the ConnectPort X4 features a native Python engine for programmability.

Python is an object-based, open-source programming language for developing customised controlling applications and can be adopted and applied by both embedded developers and web developers alike.

The ConnectPort X4 also includes the Digi Connectware Manager network management platform which provides a one-to-many interface for network configuration and maintenance.

AVR module gains European and Japanese approvals

2008-02-11T00:11:00.000-08:00

The nanoLOC AVR RF module is the first CSS radio module with precise indoor and outdoor ranging capabilities

Nanotron Technologies' 2.4 GHz CSS smart nanoLOC AVR module has received approval for the Japanese ARIB-T66 standard and Europe's RandTTE directive for use in the license free 2.4GHz ISM band. The 35 x 14 x 3mm unit has an integrated chip antenna and a serial UART interface. The nanoLOC AVR RF module is the first CSS radio module with precise indoor and outdoor ranging capabilities.
It is the suitable for straightforward product integration.

By adding a power supply and housing to the module system integrators or end customers can build their products without the challenges of 2.4GHz RF design and certification.

The module is equipped with a 64Kbyte Flash and 4Kbyte RAM fast 8bit microcontroller.

The design of the module was driven customer requests for a small, energy efficient, intelligent tag that can be used for ranging and localisation in combination with robust communication, either as a standalone system or as part of a sophisticated RTLS.

The module bridges the gap between the nanoLOC CSS radio chip and an OEM board.

It provides design flexibility without the need for low-level RF expertise and is a first step towards a successful portable, mobile integration.

'Nanotron's smart nanoLOC AVR RF module makes life easier for applications where positioning is an issue'.

'From tracking valuable assets in logistics and the medical market to safety monitoring applications in mines and harsh industrial environments, a broad spectrum of applications benefit from decentralised and inexpensive RTLS systems based on Nanotron's nanoLOC CSS transceiver' said Dr Frank Schlichting, Director Application Engineering at Nanotron.

Global deals expand wireless options

2008-02-10T23:57:00.000-08:00

Digi-Key has expanded its wireless portfolio with the signing of global distribution agreements with both Synapse and Roving Networks

Synapse provides a complete range of innovative low-cost off-the-shelf end-to-end wireless control and monitoring network products. Simple to install and maintain, solutions include co-ordinators, repeaters, end devices, RF engines, and the intuitive portal PC-based network administration software.
Synapse products stocked by Digi-Key include the Synapse Co-ordinator, End Device, RF Engine and Network Evaluation Kit.

These products are featured in Digi-Key's print and online catalogues and are available for purchase directly from Digi-Key.

'We are delighted to partner with Synapse', says Digi-Key President Mark Larson.
Offering its cutting edge wireless solutions is in perfect keeping with Digi-Key's commitment to provide our customers with the latest and most innovative products'.

'We are proud to be part of Digi-Key's family of product offerings', adds Wade Patterson, CEO of Synapse.

'Customers can now buy a wireless network solution that is easy to deploy, reliable to operate, and requires no embedded programming'.

Roving Networks is a leader in intelligent wireless products using Bluetooth and 802.11 Wi-Fi technologies.

The company designs, manufactures and markets embedded modules, serial adapters, network access devices, and sensors, allowing access from Bluetooth enabled PCs, PDAs, cellphones, networks, and machine-to-machine communications.

Roving Networks products reduce wireless product development cycle times.

Applications include wireless solutions for vertical markets, such as data entry, industrial automation, medical/hospital, point of sale, inventory, home control, M2M and others.

Roving Networks products stocked by Digi-Key are featured in both its print and online catalogues and are available for purchase directly from Digi-Key.

'We are extremely pleased to partner with this innovative company', says Larson.

'Digi-Key's customers will undoubtedly appreciate quality products that are designed to reduce their product development time, thus expediting time to market and ultimately saving them money'.

'We are excited to offer our products through Digi-Key's excellent channels', says Michael Conrad, President of Roving Networks.

'Digi-Key will greatly expand our exposure to new markets and enhance our ability to service and support new customers'.

Adapter provides easy Bluetooth connections

2008-02-10T23:51:00.000-08:00

connectBlue's adapter implements the master side of the IC bus interface and makes it possible to wirelessly enable a number of slaves on an IC bus

connectBlue has released a Bluetooth based IC OEM adapter which enables a cost-efficient and easy to use wireless solution when connecting devices such as displays, sensors and signal convertors. The multimaster serial computer bus is used to attach devices to, for instance, an embedded system.
Connecting the new Bluetooth IC bus adapter to the IC bus removes the need to to connect the IC master device directly to the IC bus.

Instead, the adapter implements the master side of the IC bus interface and makes it possible to wirelessly enable a number of slaves on an IC bus.

The 'original' IC master implements a simple IC look-alike protocol based on the Bluetooth serial port profile (SPP).

The master device can then access all IC slaves available on the IC bus over Bluetooth wireless technology.

'The advantage of a bus connection is how it logically can connect multiple devices over the same set of wires; and via our new Bluetooth IC Bus Adapter, it can now make this connection wirelessly', said Rolf Nilsson, President of connectBlue.

'Thus, when you connect mobile or temporary devices or when you want to overcome complicated and costly installations of displays and sensors, the Bluetooth IC Bus Adapter provides an efficient and easy to use solution'.

With a few additions, the Bluetooth IC Bus Adapter is configured using the same AT commands as the connectBlue standard Serial Port Adapters.

Typically, the adapter is pre-configured using a toolbox or AT commands and then mounted and used for reading and writing data to and from the slaves on the IC bus.

It is also possible to use the Bluetooth IC Bus Adapter more dynamically and/or to re-configure it over air.

AVR module gains European and Japanese approvals

2008-02-07T02:22:00.000-08:00

WAN router provides simple, high-speed connections

2008-02-07T02:19:00.000-08:00

The Digi Connect WAN 3G provides primary Wireless WAN connections to remote sites containing Ethernet and serial devices

Digi Internationals' Digi Connect WAN 3G, an upgradeable third-generation (3G) Wireless WAN router for primary and backup connectivity to remote sites and devices. It is a targeted function Ethernet-to-cellular router that supports both HSDPA and EVDO 3G standards and adds a cost-optimised, high-speed solution to Digi's industry line of cellular routers.
'The Connect WAN 3G is great for customers needing high-speed connectivity without all the extras', said Larry Kraft, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing, Digi International.

'It provides a fast, easy, Ethernet-to-3G wireless connection backed up by the Digi name and supported by our Dig Connectware Manager remote management platform'.

The Digi Connect WAN 3G provides primary Wireless WAN connections to remote sites containing Ethernet and serial devices.
Applications include new construction locations, power utility substations, retail/POS sites and temporary facilities.

For backup network applications, the Digi Connect WAN 3G integrates with remote locations via an Ethernet WAN port.

This provides a truly diverse network connection for remote locations requiring maximum uptime, such as retail/POS sites and financial applications.

It is also suitable for use where wired networks are not feasible or where alternative network connections are required.

By providing drop-in connectivity to devices located behind third-party networks, the Digi Connect WAN 3G extends Digi's suite of drop-in networking solutions.

The Digi Connect WAN 3G features built-in VPN for secure connections, one Ethernet port, one serial port, a sensor port for connecting Digi Watchport Sensors and a USB port for local data storage via a USB memory stick.

The USB port can also be used for connecting Digi's WatchPort USB camera or for connecting an external global positioning system (GPS).

The Digi Connect WAN 3G features Digi SureLink for persistent connections over wireless networks and Digi Connectware Manager for easy setup, configuration and maintenance of large installations.

It also supports Python, an easy to use, object based, free, open-source programming language for developing customised controlling applications.

New uses planned for WirelessUSB modules

2008-02-02T02:35:00.000-08:00

Following its appointment as sole distributor for UK and Ireland, UR Group now supplies Unigen's WirelessUSB modules. It is planning to target the products at new applications areas

Following its appointment as sole distributor for UK and Ireland, UR Group now supplies Unigen's WirelessUSB modules. The Juno WirelessUSB module range consists of over 40 devices featuring 10m, 50m or 1km ranges. Target applications include the industrial, consumer and medical sectors, with a typical use being the replacement of costly and labour intensive wiring looms for the short range and point-to-point or point-to-multipoint communication for the longer ranges.
The first modules, Juno-B and Juno-L, are based on a Cypress Semiconductor WirelessUSB, 2.4GHz radio-system-on-a-chip device.

UR will target the products at new areas, beyond the creation of wireless PC keyboards and remote controls.

Possible applications include remote utility metering and monitoring of emergency lighting.

The modules are compatible with existing operating system human interface device (HID) drivers.

Measuring less than 25mm square, the modules feature an integrated chip antenna or the option of a mini-coaxial connector for an external antenna and multiple mounting and orientation configurations.

Juno-B configurations are suitable for using a daughter board in the target device, via either a standard header interface or soldered directly to the main device circuitry.

The Juno-L can be supplied in normal, mirrored and bare board configuration options for off-board location via ribbon cable or may be mounted vertically similarly to the Juno-B.

Technical documentation for the modules, including over 150 reference designs and approved components, is also available.

CompactFlash Bluetooth card goes mobile

2008-02-02T02:29:00.000-08:00

New software enables the award-winning BL-565 CompactFlash Bluetooth card to be used in Microsoft's new Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system

Brainboxes, the serial card and Bluetooth products specialist, today announced that it has launched software to enable its BL-565 CompactFlash Bluetooth card, winner of the Best of Microsoft Tech-Ed 2005 mobile computing category, to be used in Microsoft's new Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system.
The BL-565 is also one of the few CF cards with a class 1 (over 100m) range making it one of the leading Bluetooth PC cards in the market today, giving better class one experience for Pocket PCs.

The new software is simple to use and will significantly improve the user experience of Bluetooth.

It also enables a standard Bluetooth keyboard to be used with the PDA, allowing the user to easily enter large amounts of data.

Windows Mobile 2005 was announced in May this year and is based on Windows CE 5.0.

It includes a number of significant productivity and multimedia enhancements such as Direct3D Mobile, a graphics solution built on DirectX, which uses Microsoft's desktop technology.
Eamonn Walsh, Managing Director of Brainboxes commented: 'We are delighted that so soon after the long awaited launch of the new Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system we are able to offer products which are fully compatible'.

'Once again this demonstrates our leadership in the PC addon card market'.

Brainboxes' new software provides the user with a simple to use, clear interface with many extra features.

It enables Bluetooth settings and priorities to be easily customised and a connection manager function provides a clear guide through the process of setting up a Bluetooth connection.

The software also allows the user to easily create a Microsoft ActiveSync connection - used to synchronise a PDA and a PC - with only a few taps of the screen and using the software's favourites section, to access any connection without repeating the full setup process.

Additional features include: my favourites folder option, generic serial profile, business card exchange, generic device search, dial-up networking, LAN access, file transfer, and human interface device.

Brainboxes' BL-565 Type 1 CompactFlash Bluetooth card allows a personal computer with a CompactFlash slot to communicate wirelessly with other Bluetooth devices.

Based on CSR BlueCore silicon it enables communication at the full Bluetooth datarate of 921Kbaud.

In addition to compatibility with the new Windows Mobile 5.0 OS it will also work with Windows XP, Pocket PC 2000, 2002, 2003 and CE.NET.

The BL565 is CE and FCC tested, has an integral antenna and operates as a Class 1 Bluetooth device at 14dBm, which means it has a range of over 100 metres.

An important feature of the BL-565 is its use of onboard Flash memory, making it user upgradeable to the latest version of the evolving Bluetooth specification.

The Brainboxes Bluetooth suite for Windows CE supports the following profiles: GAP, SDAP, SPP, FTP, OPP, LAP (client), DUN (client), PAN (client), HID and ActiveSync.

Broadband amp covers UHF and VHF

2008-01-31T23:30:00.000-08:00

Module has an operating frequency range of 20 to 520MHz and achieves an output of 100W with low distortion, Class AB linearity and wide dynamic range

New from Link Microtek is a solid-state high-power amplifier module that has been designed for broadband linear applications at UHF and VHF frequencies. Manufactured by Empower, the BBM2E3KKO module is particularly suitable for applications such as mobile jamming, which require high efficiency, long-term reliability and ruggedness.
The amplifier module has an operating frequency range of 20 to 520MHz and achieves an output of 100W with low distortion, Class AB linearity and wide dynamic range.

Operating from a 28V DC supply, the module has a typical noise figure of 7dB at minimum attenuation, while its TOIP is specified as +56dBm.

Built-in control and monitoring circuits provide protection against input overdrive, any load VSWR and thermal overload.

With overall dimensions of only 163 x 86 x 28mm, the BBM2E3KKO module weighs just 454g and has an operating temperature range of -40 to +85C.

GPRS router upgrades remote telemetry

2008-01-31T23:27:00.000-08:00

The Digi Connect WAN GPRS provides reliable GSM wireless TCP/IP datacomms via cellular networks for primary connectivity to remote sites and devices

New from Digi International, the Digi Connect WAN GPRS is a second-generation (2G) commercial-grade GSM GPRS Class 10 cellular router that provides secure connectivity to remote sites and devices. It adds a cost optimised solution to Digi's industry-leading line of commercial grade cellular routers and drop-in networking products.
It is ideal for applications requiring connection speeds of up to 40Kbit/s such as remote asset monitoring, meter reading, vehicle tracking, security and many more.

'The Digi Connect WAN GPRS is a commercial grade cellular router available for about the price of a cellular modem', says Larry Kraft, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing, Digi International.

'It offers customers requiring analogue-modem-like speeds greater flexibility when connecting remote devices'.

The Digi Connect WAN GPRS provides reliable GSM wireless TCP/IP datacommunications via cellular networks for primary connectivity to remote sites and devices.

It enables drop-in networking to devices that are hard to reach or do not have convenient access to wired connections.

The Digi Connect WAN GPRS features one Ethernet port, one serial port, Digi SureLink for persistent connections over wireless networks and Digi Connectware Manager for easy setup, configuration and maintenance of large installations.

It also supports Python, an easy-to-use, object based, free, open-source programming language for developing customised control applications.

Python allows application developers to easily use the powerful processing capabilities of the Digi Connect WAN GPRS.

Control modules handle long ranges

2008-01-30T02:27:00.001-08:00

The Wi.232FHSS-250-R modules combine a low-power transceiver with a powerful multipoint-to-multipoint frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) protocol controller

A new family of Radiotronix long-range embedded modules based on the Analog Devices ADF 7020 transceiver IC is now available from Solid State Supplies. The communications networking capability of the Radiotronix Wi.232FHSS-250-R embedded module for long-range wireless control, remote monitoring and sensing applications makes it suitable for applications in industrial, medical, transportation, oil and gas, wireless sensing, security, consumer and automatic meter reading (AMR).
The Wi.232FHSS-250-R modules combine a low-power transceiver with a powerful multipoint-to-multipoint frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) protocol controller to form a complete wireless communication solution.

Among the many new features are 250mW on board PA, automatic gain control (AGC) with six intermediate gain steps and four module override settings, variable power output control with four steps from +8 to +23dBm output and two digital RSSI registers and one analogue RSSI output.

Supporting a wide range of data rates, allowing a designer to tune the module's performance to meet the application's throughput and range requirements, the Wi.232FHSS-250-R modules employ frequency hopping spread spectrum modulation.

Designers can program the module to use one of six hopping sequences.

The component family also supports four different addressing schemes: peer-to-peer, 32bit user-assigned, 16bit user-assigned and MAC.

User-assigned addressing modes incorporate masking to allow the formation of subnets which allow the device to operate co-located networks with minimal interference.

GPS receivers simplify the design process

2008-01-30T02:13:00.000-08:00

The Fastrax UC322 features an innovative embedded antenna design that does not necessitate a separate large antenna ground plane

The new Fastrax UC322 GPS receiver is aimed at the personal navigation device (PND) market. The receiver is based on a completely new concept and includes a integrated chip antenna that provides optimal performance and sensitivity. With its cost-effective surface mount technology and ROM-based firmware, the module is suitable for high-volume consumer devices.
The Fastrax UC322 with on-board chip antenna enables very slim design of PNDs.

While a standard solution with a patch antenna typically requires a thickness of 20mm, the Fastrax UC322 cuts the size by up to two thirds, enabling a thickness of just 5 mm.

The Fastrax UC322 features an innovative embedded antenna design that does not necessitate a separate large antenna ground plane, as the end device's printed circuit board functions as part of the antenna.

The convenient SMT mounting requires no cable assembly, connectors or manual soldering, which reduces the manufacturing and bill of material costs of the completed end product.

The receiver has an extremely thin form factor, with external dimensions of 30 x 10.4 x 2.9mm.
The Fastrax UC322 is based on the SiRFstarIII LT chipset.

The ROM based firmware eliminates the need for expensive Flash memory and simplifies the design of GPS-enabled mass-market navigation devices.

The receiver uses only 90mW of power during navigation with a sensitivity of -159dBm.

With a form factor of 10.4 x 14.0 x 2.6mm, the Fastrax IT321 is one of the smallest complete 20-channel receivers on the market.

The receiver is designed for devices that require a combination of small size, low power consumption and navigation performance.

Key features of the Fastrax IT321 encompass a SiRFstarIII LT chipset with ROM based firmware.

The receiver is a complete OEM GPS receiver including a TCXO oscillator, real-time clock (RTC) and Low noise amplifier (LNA).

The Fastrax IT321 is designed for demanding navigation applications such as car navigators, asset tracking devices, sports accessories and handheld battery operating devices like mobile phones, PDAs and PNDs.

The receivers have very high sensitivity (-159dBm) and very fast time to first fix and reacquisition.

'These new products are the next step in the evolution of our OEM GPS solutions'.

'Recent developments in the mobile industry anticipate a significant increase in the demand for GPS receiver solutions in location-enabled devices and with the Fastrax UC322 and Fastrax IT321 receivers, we are ideally positioned to address this rapidly growing worldwide market', said Taneli Tuurnala, President and CEO, Fastrax.

Fastrax also released a revised product naming system.

Wi-Fi module puts embedded systems online

2008-01-28T05:31:00.000-08:00

The ConnectOne Secure Socket iWi-Fi LAN device server offers a wide range of embedded Internet functionality

A new Wi-Fi module from TDC provides comprehensive Internet functionality via a secure wireless LAN interface for any embedded device equipped with a serial port, requiring only an antenna to complete the design. The ConnectOne Secure Socket iWi-Fi LAN device server from TDC offers a wide range of embedded Internet functionality, including a firewall, a web server, e-mail clients, an FTP client and serial to IP bridging.
According to TDC, it is one of the most complete connectivity solutions on the market, shouldering the entire burden of handling incoming and outgoing web and network traffic, and communicating with host devices through simple AT commands on the serial port.

Normally, an embedded PC would be required to deliver this level of functionality.

The iWi-Fi Server can accept up to ten simultaneous TCP/UDP sockets, two listening sockets, and can host two websites.

Using iWi-Fi, the simplest embedded microcontroller including 8bit devices can send e-mail, connect to the Internet, post an up to date status web page, complete an FTP transfer or set up a TCP/IP socket.

Integration into existing designs is extremely straightforward, as the compact 64.5 x 27.4 x 11.0mm module can simply connect to headers on the host PCB and connects to an external antenna.

Minimal or no software configuration is needed to connect Secure Socket iWi-Fi to a target wireless LAN.

TDC is offering a comprehensive development kit, allowing designers to fully evaluate the module in their application.

Wireless module secures sensitive communications

2008-01-28T05:30:00.000-08:00

The MatchPort b/g Pro from Lantronix is claimed to be the industry's most secure embedded 802.11 b/g networking module

The latest addition to the MatchPort family of pin/form factor-compatible wired and wireless networking modules, the MatchPort b/g Pro is an ideal networking solution for data sensitive, regulatory, and IT-driven applications that demand the safest and most reliable technology such as medical records, financial transactions and government data
In addition, MatchPort b/g Pro features SmartRoam, a breakthrough technology from Lantronix that provides users a higher degree of reliability and mobility when moving throughout a building, warehouse, or even across campus-wide networks.

'Listening to our customers, we realised the need for an ultra-secure wireless networking module for applications handling critically-sensitive information such as patient data and point-of-sale transactions'.

'We developed MatchPort b/g Pro to exceed the wireless security requirements for even the most specialised applications and environments', says Reagan Y Sakai, interim CEO and CFO.

'It gives OEMs a fast, simple, and affordable way to offer enterprise-class Wi-Fi security, and improves their competitive offering with piece of mind that their products are virtually immune to malicious attack or data hijacking'.

'Along with the highest degree of wireless reliability, MatchPort b/g Pro takes the complexity out of RF design and embedded networking, allowing OEMs to focus on their core competencies while minimising engineering risk, shortening development time and reducing development cost'.
'In our hospitals and medical facilities it is important for wireless equipment and associated technology to deliver the highest levels of security to ensure compliance with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) mandates', says David Hemendinger, Vice President, CTO for LifeSpan, Rhode Island's first healthcare system.

'Security protocols such as 802.11i and 802.1x EAP authentication are vital to ensure our patients' privacy and should become mandatory requirements in any wireless point-of-care deployment'.

MatchPort b/g Pro's extensive suite of security features include: an IEEE802.11i compliant radio with AES-CCMP (Advanced Encryption Standard-Counter Mode with Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code Protocol) and TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol); a complete suite of 802.1x EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocols) including EAP-TLS (Transport Layer Security), EAP-TTLS (Tunneled Transport Layer Security), PEAP (Open standard from Cisco Systems, Microsoft and RSA Security), LEAP (Lightweight Extensible Authentication Protocol); end-to-end TLS/SSL 3.0 (Secure Sockets Layer) and SSH (Secure Shell) tunnelling; and end-to-end AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) 128bit encrypted tunnelling.

Going beyond IEEE802.11 standards, the MatchPort also features the SmartRoam technology.

SmartRoam continuously tracks the radio signal strength of access points within range.

Pre-authentication and caching enables smooth and automatic transition to an access point with a stronger signal, enhancing mobile reliability while minimising communication disruption for the user.

Unlike other solutions, users experience a seamless transition, gain uninterrupted mobility, and a quicker, more reliable connection to the network.

The MatchPort b/g Pro is the third member of the MatchPort product family of pin/form factor-compatible device networking platforms.

The MatchPort family enables OEMs to future-proof their designs with the flexibility of delivering wired or wireless connectivity on the same board design with a choice of modules offering an array of price and performance options.

The family also includes the MatchPort AR, (turnkey, application-ready programmable device server module with highly-secure Ethernet connectivity and advanced web server capabilities), and the MatchPort b/g, (full-featured, secure, embedded 802.11 b/g device server module).

MatchPort b/g Pro handles the most computationally demanding or data intensive applications effortlessly with a 32bit, 159DMIPS 166MHz processor.

With 8Mbyte of SDRAM and 8Mbyte of Flash, it provides enough memory capacity for OEM customisation, loading web pages, and data store-and-forward applications.

It features two serial ports with 230Kbit/s datarate capability, seven control pins (CP/GPIO), and a wide operational temperature range of -40 to +70C, and optionally to +85C.

An application API and software developer kit (SDK) will be available, enabling OEMs to develop and deploy custom applications meeting their specific needs.

Tech transfers HD entertainment room to room

2008-01-10T04:44:00.000-08:00

Gefen and Pulse-Link will demonstrate the HDMI-Over-Coax technology at the 2008 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) at the Las Vegas Convention Center

Gefen and Pulse-Link have introduced the first consumer electronics product to incorporate Pulse-Link's CWave UWB HDMI-Over-Coax technology. For the first time, consumers will be able to extend the reach of HDMI from room to room over their existing in-home coax cabling. Gefen and Pulse-Link will demonstrate the HDMI-Over-Coax technology at the 2008 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
'With the Gefen HDMI Over Coax Extender, which implements Pulse-Link's HDMI-Over-Coax technology, consumers can extend the reach of HDMI audio and video out of their family room or media room into any other room in their house', explained Hagai Gefen, President and CEO, Gefen.

'They can enjoy true HD entertainment that is visually lossless, regardless of where their content source is located'.

'We are pleased to partner with Pulse-Link on the first commercial implementation of HDMI-Over-Coax in order to offer our customers the very best in whole-home HD entertainment networking'.

The Gefen HDMI Over Coax Extender provides an infra-red back channel that enables consumers to use the same remote that controls their set-top box, DVR, Blu-ray or HD DVD player, in all rooms throughout the connected home.

The no-new-wires solution offers Gigabit data rates and is capable of simultaneous delivery of high quality, visually lossless video along with multichannel digital audio.

'Imagine only needing to buy one Blu-ray or HD DVD player or rent one HD set top box for your home and being able to play your HD content on any HDTV in any room of your home - regardless of where the player is located', states Dan Friedman, Pulse-Link VP Marketing.

Multistandard receiver adds Sirius Internet radio

2008-01-10T04:43:00.000-08:00

Consumer electronics manufacturers will be able to produce familiar tabletop radios, microsystems and clock radios that also have access to the Sirius commercial-free channels

Frontier Silicon has announced that it will be supporting the popular Sirius Internet radio service on its Venice 6 multistandard receiver module. According to market research from Bridge Ratings, Sirius Radio is currently listened to by around six million US-based subscribers via satellite, mainly in their cars.
The Sirius Internet Radio service gives subscribers access to numerous channels of music as well as talk, news, comedy and sport programming.

Frontier's Venice 6 allows audio manufacturers to add the capability to connect to the Sirius Internet radio service to a wide range of audio devices such as tabletop radios, clock radios and micro CD systems without requiring a rooftop satellite antenna, thereby making the Sirius service easily accessible in the home environment.

Frontier Silicon's modules and ICs are already at the heart of 80% of DAB digital radios used today, and the Venice 6 module is the latest addition to its product range, adding Wi-Fi connectivity to the DAB/DAB+/FM capabilities offered on earlier modules.
The Wi-Fi connectivity gives Venice 6-based radios access to over 10,000 internet radio stations and a massive array of free online content such as podcasts and 'listen again'.

The module, which also plays audio streamed from a network server and music-on-demand, is opening up vast new markets for the company.

By enabling Venice 6 to receive Sirius Internet radio, consumer electronics manufacturers will be able to produce familiar tabletop radios, microsystems and clock radios that also have access to the Sirius' commercial-free channels for a monthly subscription fee.

According to Anthony Sethill, CEO of Frontier Silicon: 'The Sirius radio service is already very popular with consumer in the USA, with millions of subscribers regularly enjoying it'.

'Implementing Sirius on Venice 6 is going to let our customers quickly bring to market new easy-to-install home audio products that will bring this high quality Sirius content into the home'.

Venice 6 is a truly global radio module, being the world's only multistandard radio capable of receiving Internet radio, DAB/DAB+, FM and music streamed from a network server.

It is based on Frontier Silicon's Chorus 2 processor and streams radio stations and music files in a variety of formats and protocols including MP3, WMA and RealAudio.

Modules make Bluetooth integration simple

2008-01-03T02:39:00.000-08:00

Serial to Bluetooth modules can be built-in to any product to give a powerful Bluetooth connection, without any fuss or knowledge of Bluetooth

Kanda now supplies serial to Bluetooth modules that can be built-in to any product to give a powerful Bluetooth connection, without any fuss or knowledge of Bluetooth. These modules have a low pin count, 3.3V operation and include an antenna. They provide a simple Bluetooth node for system installers, instrument engineers and product designers, in fact anyone who now uses serial communications in their product.
All the engineer needs to do is fit these 8- or 12-pin DIL modules on the PCB, connect the serial lines to the module and voila, an instant Bluetooth interface.

This Bluetooth interface has configurable operating modes and can communicate with any other Bluetooth node such as PDAs, some mobile phones, PC Bluetooth adapters, laptops, or simply talk to each other.

As well as being simple to add to hardware, they are simple to setup using the Windows Manager software supplied with the units or by using AT modem commands.

A starter kit is available that is ideal for setup and evaluation of the modules.

There are two module types for Class 1 and Class 2 Bluetooth the main difference being the signal range.

Class 2 modules are 8-pin devices with an onboard antenna and a range of 30m.

Class 1 modules have 12 pins.

They use an external antenna and 150mm extension cable, which is easy to mount outside a case, and have a range of 100m with the supplied stub antenna.

Extra range can be achieved using optional dipole or patch antenna.

As both the Bluetooth mode and the serial port are easy to configure and change, including baud rate, parity, hardware flow control, generic access profile and many others, then these modules can fit into a range of existing designs without major re-engineering.

UK microwave expertise on show in San Francisco

2008-01-03T02:38:00.000-08:00

Labtech will be showcasing a range of new products and services at the MTT-S Show in San Francisco from 13th to 15th June 2006

The UK-based company, which has centres of manufacturing excellence in Presteigne and Milton Keynes, recognises the show as key to its development of the North American export market. Sales and Marketing Director Bob Lowther, who will be attending the show with the company's North America Sales Manager Mark Gullotti, revealed that Labtech had seen a 50% growth in business in North America in the past year.
The company plans to further develop the market following the recent launch of a new range of 2-18GHz broadband microwave amplifiers, detector log video amplifers (DLVAs), 2-18GHz gain modules and a focused turnkey microwave MIC assembly service for customers worldwide who are looking for outsourcing solutions.

Labtech can offer a comprehensive build-to-print microwave module and component manufacturing service, including design support, fully automatic chip placement and wire bonding, thin film circuit manufacturing, box build assembly, microwave printed circuit board manufacture, RF machining and microwave alignment and test up to 40GHz.

The MTT-S Show is one of only two major exhibitions that Labtech is attending this year - the other is the European Microwave Show in Manchester, UK, in September.

Lowther says both trade shows are important to help the company to further penetrate the North American and Eastern European markets and continue to support existing customer relationships with its products and services.

'Labtech's area of expertise lies in four key areas of activity - microwave and high-rel printed circuit boards, broadband microwave components, MMIC (monolithic microwave integrated circuits) packaging solutions and microwave MIC assembly - and many of our customers utilise either one or all of our services, which can be bundled into our unique turnkey offering', he explains

Small claims for Bluetooth serial adapter

2007-12-27T03:58:00.000-08:00

Tiny adapter will allow any device with a standard 9-pin serial port to communicate wirelessly through Bluetooth

Billed as the world's smallest, the new generation Bluetooth RS232 Mini Adapter from DataSoft Systems incorporates LED indicator lights and a DTE/DCE signal switch for ease of use. It measures only 34 x 46 x 16mm, but is as powerful and efficient as any other Bluetooth 2.0 serial RS232 adapter.
The tiny adapter will allow any device with a standard 9-pin serial port to communicate wirelessly through Bluetooth.

It eliminates conventional RS232 serial cables and offers an invisible connection with superior freedom of movement.

Users can replace cables in any point-to-point application with this user friendly device or set up their own Piconets.

ZigBee kit gains analysis software

2007-12-27T02:18:00.000-08:00

Bluetooth module gains audio headset firmware

2007-12-19T23:17:00.000-08:00

Firmware for the F2M03MLA multimedia Bluetooth module simplifies connection to mobile phones incorporating the latest Bluetooth audio technology

New wireless audio headset (WAH) firmware for the F2M03MLA multimedia Bluetooth module simplifies connection to mobile phones incorporating the latest Bluetooth audio technology. The WAH firmware supports A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP and SPP Bluetooth profiles. It can either be controlled individually with a button interface or from an external microcontroller using the UART interface with easy to use AT-commands.
The F2M03MLA module with the WAH firmware is designed for embedding into high-end Bluetooth stereo headsets.

The F2M03MLA is a low-power embedded Bluetooth v2.0 multimedia module with an onboard antenna, integrated stereo amplifier and a 32bit DSP for audio coding and advanced noise and echo cancellation.

With a transmit power of up to +8dBm and receiver sensibility of down to -81dBm combined with stereo sound and low power consumption, the F2M03MLA is suitable for most audio applications.

Developers can easily implement a wireless solution into their product even with limited knowledge of Bluetooth and radio design.

The module is fully Bluetooth v2.0 qualified and it is certified according to CE and FCC.

To evaluate the F2M03MLA together with the WAH firmware, Free2move offers the F2M03M-KIT evaluation kit based on an evaluation board with extensive I/O functionality for both data and stereo audio applications.

The onboard I/O interfaces are USB, serial port, digital (SPDIF, PCM) and analogue audio.

Flash Utility is Free2move's generic application software which allows the user to easily change and upgrade the firmware as well as changing advanced settings on the Bluetooth module.

Flash Utility automatically search for, and download, the available firmware updates from the Free2move server, which makes it very easy for customers to enable new firmware releases in a fast and simple manner.

Amplifiers power up basestations

2007-12-19T23:16:00.000-08:00

The TMA series of tower mount (masthead) amplifiers from Eleading Technologies provides a balanced amplifier with bypass function

Providing excellent system performance and reliability in even the harshest environments, the TMA series of tower mount (masthead) amplifiers from Eleading Technologies provides a balanced amplifier with bypass function. Covering the primary GSM 890-915MHz receive band and the 935-960MHz transmit band, the TMA BTS low noise amplifier has a system gain of 12+/-1dB with minimum 1dB compression output power level of 10dBm and a noise figure of less than 1.6dB.Insertion loss through the transmit path is 0.5dB maximum.

Input and output connectors are 50ohm 7/17 jacks and maximum return loss for both bands is 18dB (16dB in bypass mode).

Current consumption is 80-120mA at +12V DC supply.

Overall dimensions are 394 x 161 x 55mm.

Manufactured in China to the most rigorous standards by ETL's parent company GuangShun Electronics, the TMA series is RoHS compliant and provides an extremely cost effective solution for system installers.

Radio platform is basis for tracking and telemetry

2007-12-19T23:15:00.000-08:00

System addresses all the needs of high-volume, reliable and cost efficient telematics systems

The new Car Securer Light 3.00 (CSL-3.00) concept, designed and manufactured by Media Systems, is specially created to meet the complex requirements of telematics projects and to provide system integrators and service providers with a power tool for creating big variety of state-of-the-art security, tracking and location-based solutions and services.
The CSL-3.00 concept is based on the bullet-proofed long-term field experience of the Personal Securer 5.00 core.

Using an innovative combination of hardware, embedded software, RF and mechanical design features the CSL-3.00 system addresses all the needs of high-volume, reliable and cost efficient telematics systems.

The hardware backbone contains a triband GSM/GPRS engine, a high-sensitivity low-power GPS core, a 3D motion sensor, an ARM7TDMI CPU core with data logging and extended power management capabilities, watchdog and protection circuitry, automotive compliant power supply and Li-ion battery backup.

Two analogue and four digital inputs, four digital outputs, RS232, USB and audio interfaces provide connectivity.

The hardware layer components are supported by comprehensive standard configurable embedded firmware layer.

Using an easy to understand script like command framework, system integrators can define all relevant operation parameters of the CSL-3.00.

On top of the standard embedded software layer advanced software features are rounding up the profile of the CSL-3.00 concept.

System integrators and software developers are supported by the Car Securer Light 3.00 starter kit.

Designs put HDMI over ultrawideband

2007-12-19T23:14:00.000-08:00

Pulse-Link has produced a range of HDMI-over-coax and wireless HDMI production ready reference designs for consumer electronics device manufacturers

These groundbreaking solutions enable real-time high definition audio and video distribution throughout the home with a guaranteed quality of service (QoS) for the industry's first true 'digital home cinema' experience. The CWave UWB HDMI-over-coax and wireless HDMI transmit and receive units are low cost, small form factor, production ready reference designs enabling OEM customers quick market entry.
CWave HDMI products offer real-time visually lossless wired and wireless streaming of high quality audio and video content between entertainment source devices and HDTV displays.

Video data is encoded using the JPEG2000 video codec, the same codec used by movie theatres for 'digital cinema', providing a secure high definition home theatre experience.

'HDMI is the preferred direct link between HDTVs and digital sources such as Blu-ray and HD DVD players, video game consoles, and set-top boxes used by cable, satellite and IPTV gateways', states John Santhoff, Pulse-Link Founder and CTO.

'Streaming HD content around the home presents the greatest technical challenges for home networking and exposes bandwidth and quality-of-service limitations'.

'CWave provides a 'no new wires' solution - extending the reach of HDMI from room-to-room over existing coax cabling and wirelessly connecting devices within each room using the same chip'.
HDMI has long been recognised for its high quality transport and content protection mechanisms but is limited to single room fixed point-to-point applications.

Pulse-link's CWave UWB HDMI-over-coax innovation extends this reach over existing coax cabling, including splitters, allowing consumers to access high-bandwidth HD content from entertainment source devices in one room and display it in any other room in the house.

Pulse-LINK's CWave UWB wireless HDMI solution reduces the 'rat's nest' of connector wires behind entertainment systems, enabling clean installation of wall-mounted flat-panel displays anywhere in the room.

The HDMI extender enables longer-range, secure wireless connectivity between the HDTV display and multiple entertainment source devices such as video game consoles, DVRs, Blu-ray DVD and HD DVD players.

Pulse-Link is the only semiconductor company to deliver actual production silicon with gigabit-per-second datarates for both wired and wireless HD video distribution.

A long time recognised innovator of UWB technology, Pulse-link invented the use of ultrawideband over coax systems in 2002 and was the first to patent and demonstrate this revolutionising technology for streaming HD content throughout the home.

The use of UWB-over-coax for room-to-room HDMI connectivity is a concept developed by Pulse-Link.

Pulse-Link was also the first company to demonstrate wireless HDMI, back in 2005 with Analog Devices, and continues to set the performance bar for high-datarate wireless connectivity.

Serial adapter goes a long way with Bluetooth

2007-12-06T21:34:00.000-08:00

The Parani-SD is a Bluetooth serial adapter product line designed to replace RS232 serial cables with wireless connectivity
It incorporates advanced features such as a Bluetooth 1.2 protocol stack that includes adaptive frequency-hopping spread spectrum (AFH) software-free configuration support via an external DIP-switch, a pairing button for instant configuration of an automatic connection between two Parani-SD devices, and flexible power options.In addition, the unit has a pairing button that facilitates instant configuration of an automatic connection between two Parani-SD devices without host computer.

Once the pair is established, communication between the two Parani-SD devices should be relatively seamless.

The Parani-SD has a strengthened battery pack case that can carry two AA type batteries.

This allows the Parani-SD to be used in situations where power is a problem.

In addition, the Parani-SD can be powered using a power adapter, DC power cable or USB power cable.

The Parani-SD series has the strength of a Bluetooth 1.2 protocol stack that includes adaptive frequency-hopping spread spectrum (AFH), which improves resistance to radio frequency interference by avoiding using crowded frequencies in the hopping sequence.

In addition, the Parani-SD series probes and connects to serial devices at a faster rate.

With no drivers required, the Parani-SD Bluetooth serial adapter is developed for long-range wireless serial communications.

Transmit range can be extended up to 1km when using the optional patch antenna.

Supporting data transfer speeds up to 230Kbit/s, the Parani-SD Bluetooth serial adapter is suitable for industrial applications that require data logging, wireless sensor control and monitoring in production facilities.

Also in medical applications, physicians with handheld devices are able to view and update medical databases and patient's charts instantly reducing redundant paper work, increasing efficiency and lowering hospital costs.

Other applications include retail POS, barcode scanners and credit card readers, restaurant order and receipt printers, security systems, petrol pumps, and outdoor sign boards.

Included in the package with the Parani-SD is a stub antenna, USB power cable, DC power cable, power adapter, battery pack case (for Parani-SD200) and a CD-ROM.

Further, a configuration utility is included, which allows custom configuration of settings such as serial port parameters, flow control, baud rate, connectable mode, discoverable mode and security.

Radio modules are RoHS compliant

2007-12-06T21:32:00.000-08:00

Low Power Radio Solutions has achieved RoHS compliance for its complete range of Easy Radio wireless modules
Operating on internationally recognised licence exempt frequency bands, Easy Radio has been highly successful in allowing users 'out of the box' wireless connectivity. The key to LPRS's success is embedding simple to use control software with the wireless transmitters and receivers. This allows development engineers to implement wireless control and communication systems without having to have extensive RF or programming knowledge or costly RF test and development equipment.
The simple to use modules are available ex-stock and pre-approved for use internationally allowing rapid prototyping and very short time to market for end products.

Barry Gillibrand, Managing Director of LPRS comments: 'We are very happy to be able to confirm that all of our Easy Radio modules are now fully RoHS compliant'.

'This is an important part of our commitment to our customers to continue to provide the best and simplest to use wireless products'.

'Wireless communication continues to be a high growth area internationally and we see many new potential applications every month'.

'Our experience tells us that many projects fail to ever get to market because the complexities of RF design and software protocols are generally underestimated'.

'Easy Radio provides a unique, proven, off the shelf solution'.

Typical applications for Easy Radio wireless modules include industrial monitoring and control systems, environmental and building controls, alarm and security systems and communications systems

Bellwave acquisition expands M2M portfolio

2007-12-06T21:29:00.000-08:00

Italian M2M specialist Telit Communications has announced the acquisition of 75% of Bellwave M2M, the machine-to-machine division of South Korean wireless communications developer Bellwave
The company's M2M business has a market share in South Korea close to 50%. This acquisition thus is a key component of Telit's global growth plans and strengthens its M2M commitment in Asia. It further demonstrates Telit's role as a challenger in the worldwide M2M market. Bellwave M2M developed and marketed the world's smallest CDMA data communications module.
The company currently has 40 employees, the majority of which are engineers.

The company will focus on the development of CDMA 1X and EVDO products for Asian and American markets and the development of WCDMA/UMTS products for global distribution.

The company will also serve as Telit's sales gateway to the emerging Asia Pacific markets for both CDMA and GSM/GPRS product lines.

The acquisition is highly strategic, especially considering that according to the latest ABI research (2005), last year over 100 markets announced they would deploy UMTS/WCDMA technology, confirming Telit's vision of the great market potential for WCDMA modules.

The same research reports that the market for M2M solutions based on CDMA technology is expected to grow between 31 and 37% per year in the next five years, producing about 10 to 11 million units in 2007 alone.
The deal with Bellwave thus marks another important step in the growth of the company that will now complete the array of products with CDMA/EVDO and WCDMA technologies and expand the existing distributor network that already covers more than 50 countries.

The M2M products of Telit's Wireless Solutions Division offer a wide range of options tailored to different solutions and application areas.

The Italian wireless expert presented the world's smallest quad-band GSM/GPRS module in 2006 and has been one of the first companies ever to offer products that combine GSM/GPRS and GPS in the smallest possible space.

The four different Telit module families have been developed using the company's proprietary technology, including its own protocol stack.

Commenting on the acquisition, Oozi Cats, Chief Executive of Telit Communications, said: 'The combination of Telit's and Bellwave's experience will create a new force in the M2M market, capable of servicing all CDMA and GSM and in the future also WCDMA markets on a global basis'.

'Bellwave M2M is the centre for Telit's expansion into the Asian market'.

'The combination of Telit's and Bellwave M2M's expertise brings many synergies and benefits, most noticeably in terms of product range and geographical presence'.

'Thanks to our long-term experience in CDMA development, particularly for CDMA M2M since 1999, our highly-motivated team and last but not least our long-term relationship with Qualcomm - we were the first Qualcomm licensee for CDMA modules - the partnership with Bellwave will open up huge worldwide market potential for CDMA and UMTS products for Telit'.

'Bellwave M2M, which has close to 50% market share in Korea, where the most advanced CDMA technology is trialled, brings to Telit a solid customer base in the Korean market as well as the global CDMA marketplace in the USA, China and India'.

'We will draw advantages from this by keeping sales, marketing and customer support all located at its headquarters in Seoul', says SG Kang, designated President of Bellwave M2M.

Based on its success in Europe, Telit will engage in the Asian M2M markets.

In the latest market report 'Strategic analysis of the European wireless M2M market' issued by the leading M2M market analyst Berg Insight, Senior Analyst Tobias Ryberg states: 'Meanwhile, Telit has emerged as the main challenger on the European wireless modules market with an aggressive growth strategy'.

'Telit ranks as the third largest supplier of wireless M2M modules on the European market behind Siemens and Wavecom'.

Tuner upgrades to HD satellite signals

2007-11-29T03:05:00.000-08:00

DVB-S2 digital BS tuner unit has same mechanical outline as existing DVB-S format device, enabling easy upgrade of existing designs

Alps Electric has developed a DVB-S2 digital BS tuner unit with an internal demodulator for use in TVs and set-top boxes for high-definition satellite digital broadcasting. In the second half of 2006, European countries started satellite broadcasts in the new high-definition DVB-S2 format. And in Japan, Sky Perfect Communications is planning to commence broadcasting in the same format from mid-2008, increasing worldwide demand for DVB-S2.
The BSBE2 series tuner is compatible with both the high-definition DVB-S2 and standard DVB-S screen formats.

Yet it is the same size as its predecessor, the BSBE1 series (41.0 x 73.3 x 13.0mm), which could only be used with the DVB-S format.

Furthermore, the structure of the exterior cladding of the tuner is effective in reducing heat dissipation and noise, leading to greater reliability and low-noise performance.

The tuner's internal demodulator IC causes heat to be generated when the digitally altered signals are modulated.

The heat source is in the upper section of the demodulator IC.

Opening a hole in the part of the cover over the upper section and bringing the lower section of the circuit board used for the IC into contact with part of the outer cover, creates a double thermal insulation structure which is very effective for dissipating heat.

In addition to preventing the signals emitted by the oscillator inside the tuner from influencing other parts of the set as noise, the cover over the exterior cladding also serves to muffle digital noise emanating from set's decoder or CPU.

M2M module is ARMed for processing performance

2007-11-29T03:04:00.000-08:00

Quad-band M2M module includes onboard ARM9 processor, making it suited for a wide range of applications requiring high processing power

Telit Wireless Solutions has unveiled the newest addition to its GE product family, the GE863-PRO3 module. Equipped with two powerful microprocessors, this quad-band module is suited for a wide range of applications requiring high processing power. With the same form factor as the compact GE863, tried-and-tested BGA mounting technology and an integrated memory for software applications, the GE863-PRO3 also offers significant cost benefits for the development and production of complex M2M solutions.
The groundbreaking Telit GE863-PRO3 module will be available during Q4 2007.

The new GE863-PRO3 GSM/GPRS module is the first module in the Telit PRO3 professional dual-processor product line.

Thanks to its integrated ARM9 processor, software applications can take full control of the CPU, while the GPRS baseband processor handles time-critical communication tasks.

The module can be programmed in Python and C++ programming language.

'With the GE863-PRO3, Telit becomes the first M2M supplier to offer a dual core concept with independent processors for communication operations and customer real-time applications'
'This is a crucial advantage over comparable rival products where all applications run on a single CPU', says Dominikus Hierl, President of Telit Wireless Solutions.

The powerful Atmel ARM9 processor enables control of real-time applications that require up to 200 MIPS.

The Telit GE863-PRO3 is therefore ideally suited to applications requiring high processing power such as point-of-sale terminals, fleet management systems and multimode automated meter reading (AMR) applications.

The GE863-PRO3 also features integrated memories (Flash and RAM) and independent energy management for both CPUs, eliminating the need for additional external memory in the application design.

It is therefore easier and more cost-effective for Telit customers to incorporate the GE863-PRO3 into the design of their product.

The GE863-PRO3 has the same form factor and software interfaces as all other modules of the GE863 family, ensuring it can be easily integrated into existing customer designs with minimum adaptation.

The tried-and-tested BGA installation concept allows straightforward, cost-saving hardware integration with no connectors and cables.

Thanks to the dedicated ARM9 processor, integrated memory, drivers and reference designs, the GE863-PRO3 achieves an unbeatable final product time to market performance, while reducing the application development costs.

With its external dimensions of just 41 x 31 x 3.6mm, the GE863-PRO3 is particularly suitable for applications where a compact form is important.

Like all other Telit products, the GE863-PRO is fully certified for all relevant international markets.

Therefore customers avoid additional costs and wasting time on complex testing procedures and benefit above all from a faster market launch of their products.

Thanks to its integrated firmware over the air (FOTA) facility, the GE863-PRO3 offers the benefits of remote software updates.

This function enables system integrators and developers to ensure that the firmware of the product can be upgraded with the latest enhancements and features.

Furthermore, the advantage of FOTA will be made available for the customer application software.

This allows total remote device management, giving the possibility of improving the functionalities of the application devices while dramatically reducing the cost of ownership of the product.

Wireless audio modules go multichannel

2007-11-29T02:44:00.000-08:00

Wireless audio modules can use up to 15 communication frequency channels within the European harmonised 863-865MHz audio band

Available now from Circuit Design, the WA-TX-03-R and WA-RX-03-R are wireless audio modules for the European harmonised 863-865MHz audio band. Both the WA-TX-03-R and WA-RX-03-R can be set to 15 communication frequency channels within the 863-865MHz band. In addition to offering frequency response sufficient for audio transmission, a compander noise reduction system enables wireless transmission of clear sound, with a wide dynamic range of 70dB or more.
By focusing on simple wireless audio transmission processing functions, the product guarantees the user maximum flexibility in developing higher order software.

Handshaking between modules uses only RF channels.

So for example, if the modules are embedded in a tour guide system, as long as the channel settings match, there is no limit to the number of receivers that can be used.

Reducing the number of components using a dedicated IC has given the product a new multichannel capability without any increase in module size.

As embedded modules, each device includes nearly all the parts necessary for audio transmission in a small shielded case, making it easier to develop audio transmission equipment in a shorter time.

Helicopter lands multiple radios on each node

2007-11-21T02:33:00.000-08:00

The Atific Helicopter is billed as the industry's first FPGA-based multiradio wireless sensor network (WSN) platform

A complete development kit is immediately available for rapid technology adoption. The new platform opens a new era for WSN applications with greatly improved robustness, performance and flexibility compared with other WSN platforms. Atific Helicopter has up to four Nordic Semiconductor nRF2401A 2.4GHz radio transceivers on a single WSN node.
Each radio can be independently configured to transmit or receive data from other WSN nodes purely simultaneously.

Radio transceivers are connected to Altera Cyclone EP1C20 FPGA that occupies a highly flexible multiprocessor system-on-chip platform including soft-core processors, logic for radio transceivers and space for application specific custom logic.

Atific Helicopter enables new exiting WSN applications that have not even been realisable in the past.

The platform is ideal for developing and implementing demanding WSN protocols, algorithms and computing architectures.

The outstanding performance allows even multihop video and audio streaming with the 3Mbit/s throughput when all the transceivers are cascaded.

The first multiradio WSN platform product, Atific Helicopter, is available as a development kit for a jump start for companies, research laboratories and universities.

The kit comes with a pre-installed reference design including source codes as well as PC terminal software.

RF modules handle industrial-strength control

2007-11-21T02:32:00.000-08:00

Ideal for applications such as lighting, door and access control, and other general-purpose remote switching tasks, the ready to use Pro series is available in four, eight and 16-channel versions

The Pro series from RF Solutions is an industrial-standard remote control system. Ideal for applications such as lighting, door and access control, and other general-purpose remote switching tasks, the ready to use Pro series is available in four, eight and 16-channel versions. The system uses a highly secure transmission protocol to provide reliable operation.
The receiver unit comprises a durable IP65 rated enclosure with a clear, hinged, screw-down lid.

Overall dimensions are 315 x 235 x 130mm.

The circuitry is contained as interchangeable DIN rail modules with choice of modular relay outputs switching up to 30A at 230V AC.

The unit also houses an integral 12V DC power supply and antenna.

Ribbon cables are used to provide simple and fast connection of the interchangeable modules.

A 433MHz version is capable of achieving a range of up to 200 metres, and 433MHz narrowband (434.525MHz) versions achieve up to 1km.

Outputs may be configured to operate as either latching or momentary, and one timed output for up to 15 minutes.

RF Solutions offers a choice of two transmitter units with the Pro series industrial receivers.

The 204 series transmitter is a compact handheld unit powered by two CR2016 lithium cells.

It is supplied in a wall-mountable cradle and can be specified with either four, eight or 16 buttons.

The 205 transmitter is a larger, ruggedised unit suited to industrial or difficult environments.

It has a removable Protective rubber boot and is also available with either four, eight, or 16 buttons and requires two AAA size batteries The receiver outputs may be mapped to combinations of individual or several of the transmitters' switches using an 'easy learn' process.

RF distribution networks combine multi functions

2007-11-21T02:18:00.000-08:00

Endwave Defense Systems has announced the release of a series of custom multi-function assemblies (MFAs) for RF power distribution applications

These particular MFAs provide input filtering, amplification using GaAs MMIC devices, digitally controlled attenuation, and temperature compensated power distribution of incoming RF signals amongst eight output ports. Limiters and equalizers are incorporated onto each signal path to provide flat output power response vs.

frequency, and particular care has been taken in the design to provide stringent phase matching and tracking performance.

Multiple models have been developed to accommodate multi-octave bandwidths within the 0.5-18 GHz range, making them ideally suited for electronic surveillance and signal intelligence (SIGINT) applications.

Mobile internet solution released for laptops

2007-11-12T06:42:00.001-08:00

The Gobi solution is meeting the demand from notebook manufacturers for worldwide connectivity capabilities beyond Wi-Fi

Qualcomm has introduced Gobi global mobile internet, an embedded solution for notebook computers. Notebooks featuring the multi-mode Gobi solution can take advantage of the high-speed mobile internet services offered by network operators in virtually all parts of the world, as well as GPS. The Gobi solution is meeting the demand from notebook manufacturers for worldwide connectivity capabilities beyond Wi-Fi and is being certified to operate on CDMA2000 EV-DO and UMTS HSPA networks worldwide.
Gobi-enabled notebook computers with global mobile internet unify the most important wireless carrier network technologies deployed around the world, providing comprehensive support for all 3GPP and 3GPP2 technologies', said Dr Sanjay Jha, Chief Operating Officer of Qualcomm and President of Qualcomm CDMA Technologies.

'We are leveraging Qualcomm's expertise in multi-mode wireless chipsets to bring unparalleled connectivity to notebook users, who can now be confident they can instantly access the internet without searching for a hotspot - today'.

'HP and Qualcomm share the belief that mobile internet capability increasingly will be viewed as an essential notebook feature', said Matt Wagner, Director, Notebook Strategy and Planning, Personal Systems Group, HP.

'HP welcomes the direction that Qualcomm is taking with the multi-mode Gobi technology and the improvements it can offer notebook customers in enhanced international roaming and greater choice of mobile operator service'.

Oliver Mauss, global director of business marketing for Vodafone, said 'Vodafone is committed to developing the sector for laptops with built-in 3G broadband in order to meet our customers' growing need for access to data services on the move'.
This platform is an important step in making this technology even more accessible and we are working closely with notebook OEMs to help them integrate this platform into their devices'.

'We are excited about Qualcomm's technology as it supports our mission to give customers the best wireless experience, whether in the United States or abroad', said Andrea Caldini, Executive Director, Product Management and Development for Verizon Wireless.

'Qualcomm's leadership role in bringing Gobi to market is important for customers who have increasingly chosen an embedded wireless solution'.

'Verizon Wireless looks forward to its continued collaborative effort with Qualcomm, Vodafone and the notebook manufacturers on this project'.

The embedded Gobi solution for notebook OEMs through Qualcomm customers includes Qualcomm's MDM1000 chipset, associated software and API and a reference design for a software-defined configurable data module supporting both EV-DO Rev A and HSPA with full backward compatibility, as well as GPS functionality.

By supporting both the 3GPP and 3GPP2 standards, notebook manufacturers can deliver products with global connectivity capabilities while benefiting from greater efficiencies and a simplified user experience.

Mobile internet solution released for laptops

2007-11-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

Wireless modules do what it says on the tin

2007-11-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

A recent survey of Easy-Radio wireless module customers showed that 87% found them very easy to install and 83% found them just as easy to configure

Easy-Radio is a range of ready-to-run wireless modules with all the software users will need for one- or two-way short- to medium-range applications. 'We believe that more than 50% of potential wireless products fail as designers underestimate the complexities of RF design or the programming required to ensure reliable communications', says Barry Gillibrand, MD of LPRS.
'The apparent low cost of wireless chips soon escalates as the additional hardware, test equipment and approvals get factored in and expensive design time is consumed'.

LPRS has a long track record in providing 'out-of-the-box' wireless solutions to a wide variety of applications.

In order to substantiate its claims, the company recently carried out a survey of its Easy-Radio users and had a fantastic response.
The following are comments from real users.

David Goadby of Pixel-Plus said: 'It's almost too easy to add radio using LPRS modules'.

Marnix Pikkemaa, Binary Developmentt said: 'Radio links don't get any easier than this'.

Jon Witte of Wiggly-Amps said: 'Sweet little modules that are a pleasure to use'.

Mark Dworatzek of Dworatzek Consulting said: 'Very good product, it saved us a lot of time'.

Peter Newbury of Sequoia Developments said 'Easy-Radio enabled us to get our prototype up in a matter of minutes'.

Michael Denner from Dolby Labs said: 'ER900TS/RS exceeded expectations by far regarding range of signal and ease of use'.

Gillibrand continues: 'In addition to these very positive comments, two out of three customers said they didn't need to use our technical support.

This is unheard of in my experience of selling radio products and really seems to justify our confidence in Easy-Radio.

Easy-Radio modules are available as transmitters, receivers and transceivers, operating in the unregulated 433MHz and 868-920MHz bands.

All of the modules have onboard software available, which takes care of transmitter encoding and receiver decoding as well as RS232, TTL or whatever standard data the user wishes to input.

A true data-in/ data-out, result is achieved.

Mobile internet solution released for laptops

2007-10-26T00:06:00.000-07:00

ZigBee module promises easy applications

2007-10-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

OEM radio module virtually eliminates design engineer programming requirements when adding ZigBee wireless connectivity into products

Available now from Cirronet, the ZMN2405HP is an OEM radio module featuring the latest ZigBee technology. Based on a single-chip design, the module features the Cirronet proprietary CSM profile that virtually eliminates OEM design engineer programming requirements when adding ZigBee wireless connectivity into their products
he 65mW ZMN2405HP provides robust performance with exceptionally low power consumption (25dB of output power adjustment is provided through software configuration allowing use under ETS300-328 rules).

Development kits are available through Cirronet's network of distributors including Acal, Avnet-Memec, Digi-Key, Mouser, Nu Horizons and Richardson Electronics.

'The single-chip module, with its reduced sleep current and coupled with the ZigBee 2006 stack, really delivers on the promise of ZigBee in a way that will allow full commercial deployments', says Robert Gemmell, President of Cirronet.
With our unique CSM profile, OEM customers can quickly bring to market reliable, robust wireless mesh technology'.

The ZMN2405HP is based on TI's CC2430 SoC and runs on the most recent ZigBee 2006 stack approved by the ZigBee Alliance.

The module provides 12bit ADCs and sleep current of less than 3uA.

The module includes six GPIO lines, three ADCs, two DACs, a UART and an SPI port allowing a variety of sensor inputs or data streams to be sent over the ZigBee network.

The ZMN2405HP module includes the ZigBee 2006 stack and the Cirronet CSM profile.

The CSM profile provides a powerful, yet easy to integrate API for the modules allowing OEMs to simply write to the API.

This eliminates the requirement for OEMs to develop application code for the modules.

The CSM profile includes network discovery, full serial and I/O functionality, a variety of sleep modes as well as a flexible auto-reporting mode that allows data collection without polling.

The modules are suitable for drop-in replacement for and replace the Cirronet ZMN2400HP two-chip modules, and require little, if any, customer application changes.

USB device brings wireless connectivity

2007-10-12T04:48:00.000-07:00

The USB Serial Port Adapter automatically installs itself as a virtual COM port when connected to a computer.

The installation runs smoothly as the industrial application programmer gains full control via the connectBlue standard AT commands.

The Bluetooth and WLAN stacks are incorporated in the connectBlue module, with no additional software needed.

'Since the programmer need not to license a complex Bluetooth or WLAN host stack or driver, there are no additional configuration costs', said Rolf Nilsson, President of connectBlue.

'Also, there is no longer a need for a traditional serial port, serial cable or power cable'.

'Consequently, the new USB Serial Port Adapter makes easy configuration and testing possible'.

The USB Serial Port Adapter is based on the connectBlue Bluetooth and WLAN Serial Port Adapters.

Therefore, it can take advantage of features such as internal or external antenna and short or long range versions.

All Serial Port Adapters are fully configurable via a set of AT commands.

Besides the Serial Port Adapter firmware, the USB adapter can be equipped with other firmware versions, including support for the Bluetooth File Transfer (FTP) and Object Push (OPP) profiles, Bluetooth I/O, repeater functionality and multi-point versions.

Mini-PCI card hosts WiMAX CPE development

2007-10-12T04:46:00.000-07:00

Mini-PCI board provides advanced WiMAX features such as support for UL subchannelisation which significantly improves performance for indoor modems

Wavesat has released its second-generation WiMAX Mini-PCI design targeting low cost mass market indoor and outdoor customer premises equipment. Wavesat's NP7256 mini-PCI design provides advanced WiMAX features such as support for UL subchannelisation which significantly improves performance for indoor modems.

Based on Wavesat's latest Evolutive NP7256 ASIC, this new generation WiMAX Mini-PCI has been redesigned with fewer parts and advanced RF chipsets to substantially reduce overall sise and BOM.

Combined with Wavesat's MAC software, it enables ODMs and OEMs to build small and extremely low cost subscriber units.

The flexible architecture of the Mini-PCI will offer easy design upgradeability to WiMAX 802.16e.

'Near- to medium-term applications for WiMAX are driven by fixed and portable application services, CPE cost, and platform flexibility', says Frank Draper, Wavesat's VP Strategic Development.

'Our WiMAX NP7256 Mini-PCI design offers OEMs and ODMs the opportunity to quickly develop a low BOM subscriber unit with minimum NRE investment and risk by using existing broadband CPE platform'.

'As a market leader, Wavesat will continue to focus on enhancing current product portfolio to bring additional cost reduction, easy upgradeability and design flexibility to its unique architecture'.

Wavesat's WiMAX Forum Certified WiMAX product portfolio supports both basestations and subscriber units for licensed and licence-exempt radio frequencies.

Wavesat provides a full-range of standards-based integrated circuits, software, and development platforms supporting IEEE802.16-2004 and 802.16e-2005 standards.

Featuring the industry's first WiMAX Mini-PCI card and chosen by ODMs and OEMs worldwide, Wavesat's WiMAX portfolio provides effective wireless connectivity for a wide range of network sises and coverage from urban to rural applications.

Wireless Network Design - Expanding The Wired Network

2007-10-11T05:29:00.000-07:00

The field of wireless technology is growing by leaps and bounds, and you can catch the wave with wireless communications training from vocational schools, trade schools, and community colleges. The best courses in wireless communications will culminate in diplomas and associate degrees, helping graduates enter the profession with ease.

The multiple uses for wireless technology in today's society are literally exploding. If you are seriously looking for an occupation that offers plenty of well-paying jobs, now is the time to look into wireless communications training. You can quickly learn how to design, install, and maintain equipment for mobile and wireless devices, such as digital telephones and laptop computers.

Training in wireless communications will generally cover the various applications of communications technology; low-power analog, digital, and radio frequency circuitry; speech, video, and image compression communication theory; smart antennas; and control policies and management of communication networks, among other subjects.

You will be qualified to apply for plenty of jobs in communications once you have completed your education in wireless communications. Television stations, radio stations, online radio stations, and all other areas of broadcasting are eager to consider those with advanced expertise. Just imagine how exciting your day will be when you become an expert in wireless technologies!

Yes, training in wireless communications is readily available in vocational schools, trade schools and community colleges. There are also many traditional colleges and universities that house wireless communications schools. So, there is no reason to put it off any longer. Search our website and you will find schools offering the education in wireless communications. Submit a request for more information and you could soon be on your way to a lucrative and long-lasting career.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Wireless Communications Training Is Readily Available

2007-10-11T05:26:00.000-07:00

Wireless network design is the process of generating a layout of hubs and links within an environment to ensure desired network availability and flow capacity. Designing one of these networks is quite different from a wired network design by taking advantage of some of the most advanced RF design kits and process technologies in the industry. Designs for wireless networks are based principally on projected subscriber density, desired coverage area, and traffic demand. Wireless design is one of the most challenging areas of electrical engineering, and the shortage of individuals who can address the issues is expected to get worse over the next two decades.

Wireless communication networks are essential for providing communications for mobile users, and while radio communications are useful in providing good coverage over large areas, the data transfer rates achievable with it is limited compared to the data transfer rates achievable with fixed networks. Wireless is inherently a shared medium, and bridging of ethernet connections between locations is particularly attractive, due to the cost savings. These networks can be used to connect adjacent buildings together or create to a link between locations up to 10 miles apart. Wireless LANs (WLAN) can also extend the reach of the wired network, providing previously unavailable connectivity to that network. WLANs are especially ideal to implement in office buildings, manufacturing floors, health care centers, or campuses, and they can be adapted to both indoor and outdoor environments. In instances where wiring is not an option, WLAN implementations can also be used in buildings such as historical structures, open space floors, or buildings with sealed rooms.

WLAN systems from can usually be installed in one day, and integrate seamlessly into the existing networks. These networks can form virtual offices anywhere in the world and can also create remote classrooms, remote training facilities, and remote hospitals. This technology will also enables developing countries to build up their communications networks quickly and cheaply, bypassing the high cost and delays associated with building wired infrastructures.

Designing a wireless communications system depends on using a complex set of engineering analysis that requires significant expertise and experience in radio frequency communications and networking, in addition to an in depth knowledge of the application requirements. Designing a wireless network is important to ensure configurations are setup correctly for wireless traffic to efficiently travel over the wired network. Design and integration is very important to maintaining the overall reliability of the network.

Traditional network design are based on the utilization of a single Home Location Register (HLR) for each wireless network, but growth considerations are prompting consideration for multiple HLR topologies. One of the major challenges is for the efficient mobility management, which can be addressed both globally and locally. The best way to properly implement wireless network design is to fully understand its balancing, coverage, and capacity. As time goes on, more and more wireless designs are beginning to come into the market due to growing consumer demand for a wire-free life.

Wireless acquisition is a natural fit

2007-10-10T03:32:00.001-07:00

Digi International has acquired MaxStream, a fast-growing privately held corporation and a leader in the wireless device networking market

Digi International has announced the acquisition of MaxStream, a fast-growing privately held corporation and a leader in the wireless device networking market. The acquisition is a merger transaction for $38.5 million of cash and stock, with $19.25 million paid in cash and $19.25 million in Digi stock.
Based in Lindon, Utah and employing 49 people, MaxStream generated $10.4 million in revenue and $1.3 million in net income, or 12.7% of revenue, in the year ending 31st December 2005.

MaxStream supplies device manufacturers and integrators with reliable wireless modules and box products that meet the unique needs of industry and commerce.

The products are easy-to-use and allow customers to wirelessly monitor and control electronic devices.

To meet market needs, MaxStream provides a menu of distance and speed options, ranging from 30m to 65km, and a few kilobits per second to 1.5Mbit/s.

Some typical applications include automated utility meter reading, oil and gas monitoring, remote control and monitoring of commercial heating and air conditioning systems, vehicle information access for fleet management, industrial controls, wireless sensors, and electronic signals.

'This is really an exciting combination - the strategic fit between the two companies is remarkable', said Joe Dunsmore, Chairman, President and CEO of Digi.

'Our product lines are entirely complementary'.

'We're both focused on the commercial-grade device networking market and our core strategies of providing turnkey box products and embedded modules are the same'.

'What a great opportunity this is for MaxStream to join with a company that has such a great reputation in the industry', said Brad Walters, President and CEO of MaxStream.

'Culturally, the two companies are very compatible and we're really looking forward to jointly addressing the rapidly growing wireless market'.

M2M module is approved for North American use

2007-10-10T03:29:00.000-07:00

Telit Communications has been awarded PTCRB (PCS Type Certification Review Board) certification for its GE864 module

With that, the world's smallest quad-band GSM/GPRS module clears the last regional regulatory hurdle for use in the North American market. PTCRB certification for other Telit modules is also expected in the coming weeks. This certification is an important milestone for Telit as it rolls out its global market strategy.
The company aims to attain a market-leading position in the global M2M market, and the granted PTCRB certification considerably enhances Telit's competitive position in the key North American market.

The arrival of the GE864 to the North American market allows M2M communication to move into application areas where module sise is a critical issue.

The GE864 is the ideal solution for, among others, the market of wearable devices and consumer-oriented location-based services.

PTCRB certification a regulatory requirement in order to sell GSM cellular communication products in the North American market.

This seal of approval from the CTIA industry association ensures products satisfy the requirements of the American Variants of the GSM/GPRS network standard.
To receive certification, devices must exhibit US-specific features such as AMR (adaptive multirate) and 850/1900MHz frequency bands.

Testing is carried out by an accredited testing lab.

The PTCRB certificate is comparable with the GCF approval in Europe.

With PTCRB certification, Telit's GE864 has met all requirements to start the approval process with American network operators.

This approval is of major importance in the USA.

'American network operators individually determine what devices can be provisioned on their networks'.

'The PTCRB certificate will therefore considerably help us in the process of marketing our modules in North America, which is one of the fastest-growing GSM markets in the world', says Dominikus Hierl, President of Telit Wireless Solutions.

Other Telit modules are currently undergoing the American certification process with award announcements expected within the next few weeks.

Approval by the network operators is one of the requirements if the M2M application is to be entitled to lower-cost M2M mobile telephony tariffs.

In keeping with its market commitment to protect the investment of its customers, Telit is canvassing the gamut of approvals from Operators and MVNOs servicing the North American M2M Market.

Because they are quad-band devices, Telit's modules can be used all over the world where GSM/GPRS coverage is available.

Add to that PTCRB certification and Telit is perfectly positioned to be the module vendor of choice for M2M solution companies looking to enter the American market from other regions.

The quad-band capability of the GE864 with its virtually global regulatory compliance mean that applications that have been developed for special vertical segments in the European market can be marketed to these verticals worldwide.

Thanks to its external dimensions of just 30 x 30 x 2.8mm and a weight of 7g, the GE864 is especially ideal for applications where a subcompact form-factor is a requirement.

With the GE864, Telit becomes the world's first (and currently the only) module manufacturer to offer a GSM/GPRS module applying the BGA installation concept.

BGA is a component mounting solution based on small solder balls on the underside of the module allowing for direct mounting of the device to the application circuit board, without the need for plugs, cables, or connectors.

This not only reduces material costs, but also the installation time and assembly costs.

And because the module can be assembled using an automated pick-and-place assembly as that used for standard SMD components, the GE864 becomes the market's only such module viable for very large scale production.

The board-to-board BGA mounting is also extremely stable and reliable.

Together, the compact shape and reduced assembly costs are crucial advantages for use in cost-sensitive applications, such as those intended for the consumer market.

Contactless smart cards for waterpark

2007-10-04T03:53:00.000-07:00

South Tyrol's biggest waterpark puts its trust in the technology of n-tree and LEGIC

Acquarena Brixen offers its visitors 365 days of well-being! The combination of indoor and outdoor swimming pools with a wide range of wellness activities makes it a waterpark that is unrivalled anywhere. The extensive leisure and wellness area with over 14,000 m2 of water and green spaces is the perfect place for enjoyment and relaxation.

Adults, children, senior citizens and families - all are equally enthusiastic about this exceptional 'world of adventure'.

The versatile ticketing and access control system has been supplied by the Austrian technology company and LEGIC partner n-tree solutions Ticketsysteme .

At the entrance desk the visitor is given an n-tree microchip bracelet carrying a contactless LEGIC transponder chip.

This enables the visitor to take full advantage of everything the waterpark has to offer.

Food and drink, wellness services, solarium visits - everything can be paid for conveniently without cash.

The n-tree microchip bracelet can be used to keep clothes and valuables safe in the cloakroom.

Information on the time of stay, the personal locker number and reserved products and services etc can be retrieved at any time on special information terminals.

Throughout the entire visit the visitor can do everything without having to use cash or awkward keys.

All-in-one: a microchip bracelet for everything! Ticket, electronic purse and locker key - all the visitor to the Acquarena waterpark needs is the n-tree microchip bracelet with LEGIC technology.

In addition to all the relevant access information, the chip also stores all money transactions.

The debiting of the card is completely reliable and guarantees correct charging for food, drinks and services.

The visitor does not have to settle the bill until leaving the waterpark.

Readers at the exit barriers collect the media for use by the next visitor.

365 days of well-being - that is what Acquarena Brixen aims to offer its visitors! That is why the operators chose the n-tree solutions visitor management system with contactless technology from LEGIC.

Smooth operation, security, flexibility, reliability and maximum visitor comfort.

Even the locker system, the typical 'eye of the needle' in leisure facilities, has been perfectly integrated in the overall visitor management system by means of an online solution.

The maximum number of visitors is limited by the availability of lockers.

The online locker system provides the operator with important information on the occupancy level.

That allows variable control of locker allocation depending on the utilisation of the system.

Dietmar Umundum, CEO of n-tree solutions: 'Our declared aim is to increase the commercial success of our customers'.

'Many underestimate the role of locker management'.

'Optimum visitor management is only possible when key areas of a system are integrated'.

Stephen Neff, Vice President Sales and Business Development at LEGIC Identsystems , adds: 'We are delighted with the successful deployment of LEGIC smart card technology at Acquarena Brixen'.

'Leisure facilities in particular can benefit from the flexible and highly secure LEGIC all-in-one-card technology'.

'The contactless identification with the contactless LEGIC Smart Card offers maximum comfort for the user and flexible control for the management'.

New range of amplifiers from Endwave defence

2007-10-04T03:51:00.000-07:00

Endwave defence Systems has announced the release of several new amplifiers within their JCA line of RF amplifiers

Endwave defence Systems, a manufacturer of RF subsystems and components for defence and homeland security applications, has announced the release of several new amplifiers within their JCA line of RF amplifiers. The series includes over a dozen models with an average gain tracking of +/- 0.75 dB gain tracking and +/-1.5 dB gain matching across a 2-18 GHz bandwidth.

The high performance and reliability of these amplifiers is primarily achieved as a result of an automated assembly process using precise pick-and-place machinery and automatic wire-bonding.

Minimising gaps between components and maintaining efficient, consistent wirebond lengths in the assembly process yields significantly improved gain and phase tracking performance unit-to-unit, and often reduces RF tuning times by 30%.

These amplifiers are ideal for multi-channel transmit-receive architectures where predictable, consistent amplifier gain and phase parameters over larger lots of modules are vital to optimal system performance.

ZigBee platform set for release 8.0 upgrade

2007-10-04T03:49:00.000-07:00

One RF Technology is aiming to present a release 8.0 compliant ZigBee platform at the next ZigFest member meeting in October 2006

One RF Technology follows the developments of the ZigBee standard closely and develops its own in-house firmware accordingly. At the ZigFest member meeting held in October 2006, One RF Technology will test the latest version of its in-house ZigBee stack. The company plans to offer a fully ZigBee compliant platform to its customers as soon as the ZigBee Alliance has finalised the development of the ZigBee stack.

A ZigBee compliant platform consists of a 802.15.4 compliant physical (PHY) and medium access control (MAC) layers, a ZigBee network layer (NWK) and an application layer (APP).

R and D Manager of One RF Technology, Xavier Tatopoulos, puts a clear emphasis on the company's ZigBee development: 'We strive to offer our customers the latest know-how in RF technology found on the market'.

'That is why we follow the developments of the industry closely'.

'To have a fully compliant in-house ZigBee stack is one of the corner stones of our company mission'.

One RF Technology offers its customers ZigBee ready radio solutions as well as ZigBee education and consultancy.

The One RF Technology in-house ZigBee Stack is available in the company's TinyOne product family.

One RF Technology is currently developing a new version of the TinyOne ZigBee RF module.

The new version of the TinyOne ZigBee module is scheduled to be released in Q4 2006.

Microwave components and subsystems come together

2007-09-21T05:24:00.000-07:00

The latest catalogue from L-3 Narda West contains detailed information on the company's wide range of active and passive microwave components and subsystems

New from microwave and RF component specialist Link Microtek is the latest catalogue from L-3 Narda West, which contains detailed information on the company's wide range of active and passive microwave components and subsystems. Available either as a 200-page printed version or in CD format, the catalogue covers active products such as amplifiers, linearisers, up and down convertors and receivers, together with a variety of passive products, including filters, diplexers, circulators and isolators.

As well as highlighting the main features and key technical specifications for each product, the catalogue is illustrated throughout by means of photographs, performance charts and dimensioned line diagrams.

The new Narda West catalogue will be indispensable for anyone involved in specifying microwave components for use in military, space or telecommunications applications.

Multistandard module is product of the year

2007-09-21T05:21:00.001-07:00

RadioScape has just won the TechCon Product of the Year 2006 for its RS500 module

RadioScape has won the TechCon Product of the Year 2006 for its RS500 module, which combines the ability to receive six frequency bands and four radio standards, enabling truly multistandard digital radios to be created at consumer prices. These multistandard radios will open huge new markets for broadcasters and provide listeners with a wealth of new stations to choose from - all with digital clarity - and keep the various technologies transparent to the user who simply selects the station required from an on-screen list.

RadioScape's pioneering software defined digital radio concept enables the company to create this innovative module, which uses a standard hardware platform running software to provide the functionality thereby keeping costs down.

It simply uploads the appropriate software to handle DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting), DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale), FM or AM and automatically configures the RF front end and baseband as required via software.

The RS500 module is already in production and consumer radios based on it will be available soon.

A production model was shown at the conference so that delegates could see the features and listen to the quality of the reception across all the radio technologies.

The result of the prestigious award was announced on the 3rd of July 2006 at TechCon, which is organised by the Radio Academy at Cambridge in the UK.

There was a shortlist of five products, each of which was presented at the conference and the delegates then voted with the RS500 emerging as the clear winner.

This is the second TechCon that company has won - the first was in 2004 for its innovative RS200 DAB/FM receiver module.

Amps cover wideband and narrowband applications

2007-09-20T03:55:00.000-07:00

Microwave amplifiers are competitively priced yet provide the quality and performance required for space, military and commercial communications applications

Now available from RF and microwave component specialist Link Microtek is a range of microwave amplifiers that are competitively priced yet provide the quality and performance required for space, military and commercial communications applications. Manufactured by L-3 Narda West, the new amplifiers cover the frequency range 0.5 to 18GHz and can be specified for either wideband or narrowband applications.

Operating from a single +12.0 to +15.0V DC input, they offer low typical noise figures ranging from 1.3 to 5.5dB, a maximum input VSWR of 2.0:1 at 50ohm, and a maximum RF power of +20dBm (CW) or 30dBm pulse.

Key features include internal voltage regulation, gain and phase matching/tracking, external gain control with a 25dB dynamic range, and optional temperature compensation over the range -54 to +85C.

Equipped with SMA coaxial input/output connectors as standard, the amplifiers are housed in compact, rugged, hermetically sealed packages.

Antenna and GPS module unite in reference design

2007-09-20T03:50:00.000-07:00

A new 'smart antenna' reference design cuts time to market for products ranging from personal navigators to multimedia players with built-in navigation functions

Sarantel and u-blox have collaborated on a new 'smart antenna' reference design that will shorten time to market and reduce the risk of GPS integration for products ranging from personal navigators to multimedia players with built-in navigation functions. The new design uses Sarantel's GeoHelix-P2 GPS antenna and the high sensitivity LEA-4S GPS module from u-blox.

Based on the Antaris 4 chipset, the LEA-4S GPS module combines unrivaled sensitivity with low power consumption in a package that measures just 17 x 22mm.

u-blox's award-winning SuperSense software extends positioning coverage to weak signal areas such as indoor car parks or dense urban canyons, offering -158dBm tracking sensitivity without raising power consumption at low signal levels.

The LEA-4S module supports DGPS, WAAS/EGNOS, and is AssistNow-ready, enabling instant positioning on demand, even in weak signal environments.

Leveraging the LEA-4S module's innovative features, the GeoHelix-P2 GPS antenna from Sarantel, offers a broad, omni-directional reception pattern combined with immunity to proximity detuning - great for mobile terminals and portable navigation devices.

The GeoHelix-P2 is designed to be an embedded antenna, with a slim profile well suited to thin consumer portables.

Sarantel and u-blox optimised the reference design to take advantage of the GeoHelix antenna's excellent filtering properties, maximising the performance of the combination of antenna and receiver.

'This new reference design brings out the best that u-blox and Sarantel have to offer', said Thomas Nigg, u-blox Technical Support Manager.

'Consumers are becoming ever more sophisticated in their use of navigation devices, demanding better performance, more power efficiency, faster fix times, and greater accuracy'.

'Engineers can treat this combination of the LEA-4S module and GeoHelix antenna as a single component'.

'This system design will provide great customer satisfaction by significantly speeding up the design cycle'.

Ben Sandford, VP Sales of Sarantel, added: 'We also see greater demands on the performance, battery life, ease of use and form factor for new navigation devices'.

'The GeoHelix-P2 antenna allows designers to slim down their products'.

'The u-blox LEA-4S receiver module ensures great performance with ease of design - it's a winning combination for our customers'.

Radio modem for the great outdoors

2007-09-18T03:03:00.000-07:00

The TinyOne Pro IP67 radio modem includes a 500mW radio module with advanced embedded firmware, metal casing and a quarter wave antenna

One RF Technology has developed a new radio modem for tough environments and weather conditions. The TinyOne Pro IP67 radio modem includes a 500mW radio module with advanced embedded firmware, metal casing and a quarter wave antenna. The TinyOne Pro IP67 radio modem is available in the licence free 868 and 915MHz ISM frequency bands.

After introducing the TinyOne Pro OEM RF module earlier this year, One RF Technology now introduces the TinyOne Pro IP67 radio modem.

The 500mW modem includes a powerful embedded firmware with multiple protocol modes such low power mode, and it supports mesh networking.

With a reinforced hard metal casing, the modem is designed especially for tough environments.

The 500mW modem is capable of transmitting data up to 4km with a -100dBm sensitivity.

Together with the company's PowerOne IP67 radio modem, the TinyOne Pro IP67 is an ideal radio modem for outdoor applications such as irrigation, urban traffic control or urban display control.

TinyOne Pro radio modem connects to a 6-40V power supply and it supports RS232, RS422 and RS485 serial interfaces.

The small size of the modem,100 x 62 x 40mm without antenna or 180 x 62 x 40mm with antenna, ensures that the modem easily blends in into different environments.

One of the advanced features of the TinyOne Pro IP67 radio modem is that it is fully configurable over the air (DOTA), allowing a convenient possibility to upgrade the communications protocol used.

Compatible with the new TinyOne Plus module, the modem offers the customers a possibility to build backbone-type RF networks, eg for transmitting agricultural sensor data to a central database.

The TinyOne Pro IP67 radio modem will be available for purchase in Q4 2006.

All TinyOne Pro products are also available in 915MHz version for the US market in 2007.

Distributors expand Asian coverage

2007-09-18T03:02:00.000-07:00

Fastrax has signed two new distributor agreements that strengthen the company's position in the fast-growing OEM electronics market in Asia

Appointed to handle Korea, Sheen Bang Electronics is a distributor of semiconductor products and electronic components, and a leading provider of silicon solutions to the communications, wired and wireless networking, high-end consumer electronics and portable multimedia device markets. Sheen Bang Electronics' customer base comprises manufacturers of mobile handsets, mobile computing devices, consumer electronics, basestations, network equipment and other products.

In China, Fastrax has appointed Sinocom optoelectronic Technology.

Sinocom represents leading international manufacturers in the fields of fibre-optic solutions and industrial sensors.

The company serves customers in various vertical markets ranging from automotive electronics and industrial instrumentation solutions to sports, leisure and consumer products.

Sinocom has offices in Shenzhen, Shanghai and Hong Kong.

'We are pleased to extend our reach in the Asian market through the new distribution agreements with Sheen Bang Electronics and Sinocom'.

'The demand for location-aware products is growing rapidly, and expanding our distribution network in Asia allows us to serve our end customers in the global OEM technology industry more effectively than ever', said Taneli Tuurnala, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Fastrax.

Van der Meijs aims for European growth

2007-09-13T04:33:00.000-07:00

Marcel van der Meijs has been appointed Vice President Sales and Marketing EMEA at Integrated Engineering

In his new position, van der Meijs will be responsible for Integrated Engineering's sales growth in Europe through the formation of a strong sales driven organisation. Van der Meijs holds dual-bachelors degrees in engineering and marketing and brings 20 years of international security industry experience.

He joins Integrated Engineering from Keyprocessor where he was Business Development Manager.

At Keyprocessor he was successful in developing new business opportunities for the European market.

Prior to working for Keyprocessor, van der Meijs was self-employed as a security business consultant.

Chief Executive Office, Jan-Peter Hulsker is enthusiastic about the latest addition to the sales team.

'We are very pleased that Marcel will expand our sales team'.

'Marcel's appointment is directly linked to our strategy to increase our commercial strength and to focus more on the physical and logical access control market in EMEA'.

'This expansion of our sales team allows us to create a balance between the sales forces in the USA and EMEA'.

'With his industry experience, Marcel clearly understands the access control market and our business direction'.

Regarding his appointment, van der Meijs states: 'IE is a very devoted technology partner to leading suppliers for the security industry'.

'Joining IE offers the opportunity for me to promoting the nonproprietary contactless smart card and reader technology to create maximum flexibility, integration and interoperability'.

Lean manufacturing secrets to be revealed

2007-09-13T04:31:00.000-07:00

Brainboxes has been selected by the DTI's Manufacturing Advisory Service to demonstrate the effectiveness of 'lean manufacturing' at The Manufacturer Live exhibition

Brainboxes has been selected by the DTI's Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) to demonstrate the effectiveness of 'lean manufacturing' at The Manufacturer Live exhibition in Coventry, on 20th and 21st September 2006. Members of the Brainboxes team will be on hand at the exhibition to share the company's tremendous success with the process.

Brainboxes was experiencing rapid growth and needed to increase the throughput of its established products while introducing a range of newly developed wireless products based on Bluetooth technology.

Realising that streamlining its production would help to achieve this, the company contacted The Manufacturing Institute, which delivers the MAS service in the North West.

Together they mapped out the process from receipt of order to despatch and identified that they could: improve manufacturing throughput; improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE); reduce changeover times; reduce rework by improving 'right first time' through the use of FMEA and increase labour productivity.

By applying this process rigorously Brainboxes has managed to improve its changeover/setup times by 30%, reduced stocktaking days from 12 person days to five person days and increased its productivity volumes by 75%.

All of these improvements have been seen since the company's adoption of lean manufacturing.

'At Brainboxes we asked how we could compete against the low cost economies in the east and the only way was to take on lean techniques', says Eamonn Walsh, Chairman and Technical Director of Brainboxes.

'However, adopting them is not just for a week, it is a company lifestyle change'.

'You have to apply it, then re-apply it and then do it again so you drill right down to basics'.

'In the UK, if companies adopt the best practice of lean manufacturing methods and apply them to all manufacturing in the UK, electronics or otherwise, then the industry will be transformed for the good'.

'If not, unreformed manufacturing will fall by the wayside'.

'Forget the GI and Atkins diets, the lean programme will add muscle to any enterprise', advises Dr Julie Madigan, Chief Executive of The Manufacturing Institute.

'Many of the region's manufacturers have toned up their processes through embracing lean thinking, but fewer have gone all the way to extend this good practice throughout the entire business and beyond through their supply chain'.

'Fewer still apply lean practice to their products, which can typically cut cost by up to 25%'.

Wireless deal is precursor to new division

2007-09-13T04:28:00.000-07:00

Rutronik Elektronische Bauelemente has signed a pan-European distribution agreement with Free2move, a leading provider of embedded wireless solutions

Rutronik will act as a distributor for Free2move's portfolio of wireless Bluetooth adapters and modules, active RFID systems and Linux single board computers across 24 countries of Central, Northern, Southern and Eastern Europe. Rutronik has recently established its Wireless Competence Centre, based in Sweden, to consolidate pan-European support for wireless customers to include technical support, application development and the handling of purchasing and logistics.

Wireless will be gradually expanded into a separate European-wide division alongside active, passive, electromechanical components, displays and embedded boards.

Rutronik is aiming to achieve extensive market penetration in Europe and intends to open up new and interesting customer potential.

And, Rutronik expects to achieve substantial synergies between its existing component portfolio in the wireless sector and Free2move's products, to offer an integrated range of products for its customers.

'Our partnership with Free2move gives our linecard a major boost in the wireless sector and reinforces our position with customers as a pan-European solutions and systems provider', says Thomas Rudel, Managing Director, Sales and Marketing at Rutronik.

'With a team consisting of product marketing, sales and field application engineers, we intend to set up a new pan-European division in order to exploit adequately the promising potential thrown up by M2M communication in particular'.

'Intensive contact with the manufacturers also enables us to obtain direct support via the manufacturers' R and D departments - a service that other distributors cannot offer in this form'.

Robert Alex, Manager, Sales and Marketing at Free2move, adds: 'Both Bluetooth and RFID are rapidly growing wireless technology segments, and Free2move expect substantial increases of its market shares within these two segments'.

'With Rutronik's extensive European market coverage and its proven expertise in wireless technologies we have a strong belief that this partnership will noticeably strengthen Free2move's presence on the European market and make us able to even better supply customers with design support and product availability'.

Lars Mistander, Manager of the Wireless Competence Centre at Rutronik, has 28 years' experience in the technical distribution and marketing of wireless products on a European level.

'The key to success lies in organising all activities in a pan-European way yet still acting locally'.

'To achieve a good result it is important to work together as a team, and to encourage local initiatives and responsibility', he comments.

'A close and good relationship with our key suppliers is just as important for successful business development'.

'We intend to set up a comprehensive European wireless linecard, which with RFID, ISM, Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, GSM/GPRS and GPS, will cover the most important technologies'.

Embedded show is wireless springboard

2007-09-10T03:41:00.000-07:00

RS will launch more than 400 new components from leading wireless manufacturers on Stand 630 at the Embedded Systems Show on 11th and 12th October 2006

Recognising the growing significance of wireless technology, RS successfully launched its wireless portfolio in May of this year, with products designed to meet the needs of the rapidly growing industrial machine to machine communications market. The initial offering included modules, development boards, evaluation kits and antennas for the most popular wireless technologies: RFID, AM/FM, ZigBee, Bluetooth, W-LAN, GPRS and GPS.

Enabling RS to provide engineers with a comprehensive range of cutting-edge wireless technology solutions, the company is adding to this a selection of over 400 wireless components from some of the leading companies in this field.

Among the products in the new RS range are: Texas Instruments' 2.4GHz Zigbee RF transceiver designed specifically for low-power, low-voltage RF applications in the unlicensed ISM band; TI's CC1010 RF SoC, which integrates a very low-power 300-1000MHz RF transceiver and a 8051-compatible microcontroller that has 32Kbyte in-system programmable Flash, hardware DES encryption/decryption and a three-channel 10bit ADC; Cypress Semiconductor's CYWUSB6953 Flash microcontroller, which features a highly integrated 2.4GHz direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) radio SoC; pin-, variable capacitance- and band switching diodes, as well as single- and dual-gate MOSFETs, VDMOS and PNP wideband transistors, silicon FETs, an RFID transponder interface and a range of amplifiers manufactured by NSX; chip-type SMD baluns, Gigafil dielectric filters and various chip multilayer filters from Murata; 2.4GHz short-range, low-power transceivers designed for low-cost, simple point-to-point and star network applications from Freescale; and from Atmel, various amplifiers, an AM/FM front-end IC, a Bluetooth front-end, an FM IF system, UHF and 3D receivers, and a wideband TX/RX.

The wide range of display solutions which RS launched alongside its wireless portfolio in May will also be available to view at the show.

Comprising TFT and electroluminescent panels, LCD graphics and character modules for unit level design, through to industrial monitors and fully embedded display solutions for system level design, the range provides engineers with a comprehensive choice of display and interface solutions for a variety of applications.

When the prevalence of displays and wireless devices in the electronics industry is combined with the demand for more feature-rich devices and time to market pressures, designers need the services that RS can supply: high-service levels, no minimum order quantities and next day delivery on a massive range of stock.

The new RoHS environmental regulations also require that designers are assured of product compliance before use.

RS offers a complete guarantee on tens of thousands of components and a full online service, which includes a parts checker and guidelines.

Wireless deal is precursor to new division

2007-09-10T03:38:00.000-07:00

Lean manufacturing secrets to be revealed

2007-09-10T03:24:00.000-07:00

Slimline TV tuners fit modern equipment designs

2007-09-07T04:42:00.000-07:00

Compact DVB-S and DVB-T tuners offer development engineers more freedom in the design of modern slimline devices

Sharp has developed new DVB-S and DVB-T tuners with the slimmest housings currently available on the market. Furthermore, both lineups include model variations for horizontal or vertical mounting. With the two new model series, the height of the housing for vertical integration tuners and the width of the housing for horizontal integration tuners are around 30% lower than that of conventional tuners.

This is a significant advantage in the development of the next generation of, for example, satellite receivers, TV sets and personal video recorders (PVR).

Thanks to the improved form factor and the flexibility in mounting, the Super Compact tuners offer development engineers more freedom in the design of modern slimline devices.

The housing of the new Super Compact tuner is around a third smaller in volume.

This, coupled with the model variations for horizontal or vertical integration, means that it is much easier to accommodate two or more tuner components in the housing chassis and to make the best use of the space available.

In this way, televisions and PVRs, for example, can be equipped with an additional receiver part for satellite TV.

Up until now, many appliances needed an external receiver for this.

Despite its new slimmed down form, the new Super Compact DVB-S tuner has excellent technical features, particularly in terms of receiver dynamics, interference immunity, input sensitivity and sideband noise.

This is ensured by the receiver ICs which have been specially developed by Sharp and are based on many years of development know-how in the high-frequency range and special knowledge in HDTV reception.

The slim-line DVB-S tuners cover the typical frequency range between 950 and 2150MHz for satellite TV transmission with standard resolution (SDTV).

The model series of the Super Compact DVB-S tuners includes pure RF front-end reception parts with housing dimensions of 30.5 x 29.6 x 13.2mm as well as so-called network-integrated modules (NIM) tuners.

These are equipped with a QPSK demodulator type STV0288 from ST Microelectronics that supplies a digital 8bit data stream for further signal processing.

The housing of the DVB-S Super Compact NIM measures 59.1 x 29.6 x 13.2mm.

From a technological perspective, the new Super Compact DVB-T tuners are similar to their slightly larger predecessor models.

Correspondingly, the tuners cover the typical frequency range of between 147 and 862MHz for terrestrial TV transmission and fulfil all current standards.

The Super Compact DVB-T tuner model series from Sharp includes pure RF front-end reception parts with a housing measuring 47.75 x 29.6 x 13.2mm as well as NIM models.

These integrate the RF front end together with a COFDM demodulator with a type ZL10353 circuit from Zarlink Semiconductor that supplies a digital 8bit data stream for further signal processing.

The housing of the DVB-T Super Compact NIM measures 70 x 29.6 x 13.2mm.

The Super Compact model series for DVB-S and DVB-T tuner are based on a further development of the corresponding reception components with standard housing from Sharp.

All Super Compact tuners are therefore completely pin-compatible with the respective Sharp standard model.

This means that design engineers can base the next generation of AV equipment on the respective predecessor models without needing to make any time-consuming and costly adaptations to the tuner components.

Furthermore, with the introduction of the Super Compact model series Sharp is offering a unique range of tuner components for terrestrial, satellite and cable TV reception and can therefore provide the right solution for the most diverse requirements.

The NIM tuners in the respective model series are also shortening the development times.

As the DVB-T or DVB-S RF front ends are combined with suitable demodulators in each case, hardware developers do not have to carry out comprehensive high-frequency technology development work or spend time optimising demodulator switches.

The DVB-NIM tuners therefore help Sharp partners to achieve shorter time to market cycles and competitive advantages.

Like all terrestrial, satellite and cable tuners from Sharp, the new Super Compact DVB tuners comply with the valid RoHS standards.

The new Super Compact DVB-S and DVB-T tuners respectively are available with immediate effect from the Sharp sales offices and distribution partners.

Spread-spectrum devices aid condition monitoring

2007-09-07T04:41:00.000-07:00

Nanotron has provided the wireless component for the first energy-independent condition monitoring system with wireless data transmission

At last month's Hanover Fair, Prueftechnik Condition Monitoring launched the first energy-independent condition monitoring system with wireless data transmission. Nanotron provided the wireless component of the jointly developed solution which uses chirp spread spectrum's (CSS) benefits: long range, high robustness and low power consumption.

The Vibnode RFA offers flexible, compact vibration monitoring for fixed-speed rotating machines.

Industrial customers are freed from cabling and power supply issues, thereby saving up to 50% of costs.

Innovative harnessing of vibration energy combine with robust industrial-strength wireless and advanced measurement engineering to ensure quick, easy installation, making Vibnode RFA the first of a new generation of condition monitoring solutions.

The Vibnode RFA solution includes monitoring modules, access points and Omnitrend, a visualisation, evaluation and archiving software.

Prueftechnik is a clear leader in condition monitoring, and Perpetuum is well-known for vibration energy harvesting innovation.

The collaboration of three industry-leaders ensures customers a best-in-class integrated solution.

Johann Loesl, Managing Director of Prueftechnik Condition Monitoring says: 'The reliability and energy-efficiency of Nanotron's CSS wireless technology allowed us to 'cut the cord,' even in harsh industrial environments'.

Nanotron's CEO Dr Jens Albers adds: 'We are excited to be part of this condition monitoring product offering by partnering with Prueftechnik and Perpetuum, two leading companies in their area of expertise'.

Nanotron is committed to open industry standards, and offers total solutions encompassing chips, RF modules, networking software, development tools and custom project support.

Amplifiers lead microwave expansion

2007-09-07T04:39:00.000-07:00

Competitively priced solid-state Ku band amplifier modules target growing market for VSAT (very small aperture terminal) satellite communication systems

C-Mac MicroTechnology has launched its own range of competitively priced solid-state Ku band amplifier modules. The first two products, a power amplifier (PA module) and a low noise amplifier (LNA module), have been developed for the following target applications: satellite communications, point-to-point, radiolocation and test applications in defence and wireless communications markets.

One such application is the growing market (European CAGR 11.4%, worldwide CAGR 5.2%) for VSAT (very small aperture terminals) satellite communication systems, which are often deployed in remote areas not served by land-based communication networks.

C-Mac has developed these amplifiers to excel in key areas of performance: the LNA module has a class-leading noise level of less than 2.5dB at 25C, and both operate in the Ku band (12 to 18GHz) and the LNA maintains its performance down to 6GHz.

They also incorporate a power enable/disable facility that rival products do not typically feature and makes them ideal for portable, battery powered applications.

In addition, the operating temperature range of -25 to +70C makes them ideally suited to be deployed in extreme outdoor or high-temperature environments.

The devices are suitable for use in defence electronics applications and will be qualified to MIL-PRF-38534.

Indro Mukerjee, C-Mac CEO commented: 'The launch of our microwave product range is a significant step for C-Mac, marking a considerable extension to our standard product range, which currently includes a range of databus products'.

'We will still continue to focus on the supply of bespoke high-reliability hybrid microelectronics, which is where we have built our reputation in the aerospace, defence electronics and communications markets'.

'Based on our vast expertise in supplying to these industries it was a natural step to introduce our own range of specialist microwave products, which will provide us with exciting new opportunities in these markets'.

DECT module adapts to the US market

2007-08-24T05:48:00.000-07:00

Cordless voice module is now available with DECT 6.0 support, covering the 1920-1930MHz frequency band recently allocated in the USA for unlicensed personal communication services
SiTel Semiconductor has developed a DECT 6.0 cordless voice module for the US market. The CVM module integrates a radio transceiver and baseband with a complete protocol stack on a single chip, and has been a success for more than three years. This module enabled system designers to design more easily and cost-effectively a DECT or 2.4GHz cordless application
In this way the CVM adds cordless phone functionality to their products.

SiTel developed the CVM in co-operation with RTX Telecom, a Denmark-based wireless product developer.

The module is now available with DECT 6.0 support, which is the frequency band recently allocated (1920-1930MHz) in the USA for unlicensed personal communication services (UPCS).

The standard CVM DECT Flash version can be used by just reflashing the module with the new DECT 6.0 software.

The cordless voice modules are used in cordless telephones, point of sale terminals, intercom systems, cordless conference phones and cordless headsets.

Due to consumer need in North America for an interference free cordless voice standard, the market acceptance of DECT 6.0 is accelerating.

Besides the quiet, clean spectrum, DECT 6.0 offers solid security standards, ensuring private conversations and better range than 2.4GHz or 5.8GHz phone systems.

The rapid growth of WLAN and Wi-Fi products in the home is the main reason for the expected success of DECT 6.0, as this UPCS band is interference free.

'SiTel's cordless voice module with DECT 6.0 software, allows our customers to develop easily and fast new cordless products, taking advantage of this new US interference free frequency band', says Arend van der Weijden, SiTel Semiconductor Marketing and Sales Director.

Wireless developments cut time to market

2007-08-24T05:47:00.000-07:00

Digi-Key has a range of wireless modules and development tools from Free2move
Digi-Key can now supply a range of wireless modules from Free2move following the signing of a global distribution agreement. Free2move is a leading producer of wireless technology for industry and enterprise. Free2move aims to cut time to market, complexity and development risk for its customers by offering high performance wireless technologies as self-contained modules with rich and easy-to-use interface options combined with excellent developer support.

Digi-Key is stocking Free2move's high performance Bluetooth modules for surface mounting with built-in software for data and audio communication.

Digi-Key is also stocking Free2move's widely used serial port plug adapter that provides plug-and-play serial connections between devices.

These products, as well as the development tools for the modules, will be featured in both Digi-Key's print and online catalogues and available for purchase directly from Digi-Key.

This new distribution agreement will enable Digi-Key to fulfil both the design and production quantity needs of its diverse customer base.

'We are very excited to add Free2move to our list of supplier partners', says Mark Larson, Digi-Key's President and COO.

'Its innovative products are sure to be of consequential interest and appeal to Digi-Key's customers'.

'Free2move is delighted to establish Digi-Key as the cornerstone of our distribution in North America and in other regions', says Per-Arne Wiberg, Managing Director of Free2move.

'We are confident that Free2move's technology portfolio will further solidify Digi-Key's growth, and we are eager to provide excellent support to Digi-Key and its customers'.

Paper explains ULP Bluetooth

2007-08-24T05:18:00.000-07:00

Ezurio has produced a new White Paper explaining the opportunities that Wibree will offer
The Bluetooth SIG and Nokia have announced that the Wibree standard will be merged into the Bluetooth SIG family of standards, bringing an ultra low power capability to wireless products. Bluetooth is already the world's most successful short range radio technology, shipping around two million chipsets every day.

The promise that Wibree brings is to increase that shipment rate by another order of magnitude.

Ezurio has been at the forefront of enabling embedded wireless technology.

The company welcomes the addition of this new ultra low power capability to the standard, which will serve to banish cables from even more everyday products.

The low cost and simplicity of integration of Wibree means that designers can look afresh at product design.

To help explain the potential of this new technology Ezurio has produced a new White Paper explaining the opportunities that Wibree will offer.

Its unique ability to cohabit with a Bluetooth radio will ensure that it quickly achieves a critical mass in the market, which in turn will drive a host of applications for personal accessories.

These will spawn a new market for service providers, particularly in the healthcare and well-being markets.

Ezurio's Wibree White Paper can be downloaded from the company's website.

It explains the opportunities for using Wibree to develop location based services, personal healthcare devices and e-health offerings, home automation, energy conservation and remote control.

The promise of a robust standard and chipsets in 2008 means that product designers need to start thinking now about how they can use Wibree to transform their product offerings.

Bluetooth module has PIC in control

2007-07-10T22:58:00.001-07:00

Transceiver module combines a PIC microcontroller with Bluetooth 2.0 radio
New from RF Solutions, the Toothpick 2.0 transceiver is a module that combines a PIC microcontroller and LinkMatik (Bluetooth 2.0) radio which is preloaded with Toothpick Services firmware, providing FlexiPanel user interface server, wireless field programming and Toothpick Slave for optional external host control
Pretested firmware solutions available for the Toothpick transceiver enable immediate stand-alone operation, providing a low-cost and simplified solution.

The range of Firmware solutions includes DARC-I data acquisition and remote control managed via Bluetooth, DARC-II data acquisition and remote control with FlexiPanel user interface; Toothpick Slave where Toothpick is controlled by a host processor via a serial link; and Stand-Alone Toothpick programmable in C for low-cost, customised stand-alone operation.

The Toothpick 2.0 transceiver is a FCC/CE/IC certified Class 1 Bluetooth v2.0 radio module with an integrated microchip.

It has a 100m range, integral antenna and is available in either compact through-hole or surface mount packages.

The typical services features of the Toothpick 2.0 transceiver are the creation of user interfaces on computers, PDAs, cellphones with no development needed on remote devices by using the FlexiPanel server.

Another advantage is that its wireless field programming lets developers distribute firmware upgrades electronically.

Convertor supports multiple system configurations

2007-07-10T21:58:00.000-07:00

Satellite convertor system can be configured to suit C-Band or Ku-Band applications and yet takes up only 1U of rack space
New from Link Microtek is a versatile satellite convertor system that can be configured in a wide variety of ways to suit C-Band or Ku-Band applications and yet takes up only 1U of rack space. Manufactured by L-3 Narda Satellite Networks, the V2200 dual convertor can handle voice, data or video transmissions and is designed to meet the stringent requirements of Intelsat, IDR, IBS and TDMA services
The V2200 consists of a system monitoring and control processor, redundant fans, front-panel controls and display, optional IF and RF switches, and two convertor trays - each of which can be configured as an up or down convertor with an IF of 70MHz or 140MHz for either C-Band or Ku-Band applications.

This flexible architecture allows multiple system configurations, including 1:1 redundant up or down convertor, up and down convertor in a single 1U chassis, dual-frequency up or down convertor, dual up convertor and dual down convertor.

All convertor trays are equipped with a power supply and reference oscillator and can be replaced in the field without disrupting the operation of the second tray.

Receiver modules increase GPS options

2007-07-10T21:57:00.000-07:00

Receivers expand multiplatform concept, offering a common form factor between multiple OEM GPS receivers based on different chipsets
Fastrax has added to its iTrax and uPatch product families. Based on the ultrasensitive SiRFstarIII (GSC3f/LP) chipsets and with 8Mbit internal Flash memory, the new iTrax310 GPS receiver module enables high-performance navigation in the most stringent applications and a solid fix even in extremely demanding GPS environments
The iTrax310 OEM GPS receiver provides the high performance levels of the iTrax300, including low acquisition sensitivity (-143dBm), navigation sensitivity (-158dBm) and power consumption (110mW at 3.0V), but with a 30% smaller form factor.

iTrax310 receivers are ideally suited for both industrial navigation systems and battery operated consumer products such as handheld computers, vehicle navigation devices, sports accessories and mobile phones.

The new uPatch300 is an ultrasmall GPS receiver module with an integrated and already optimised patch antenna element.

Based on the SiRFstarIII (GSC3e/LP) chipset, the uPatch300 includes an 8-pin system connector and a UFL antenna connector for an optional external antenna.

The new uPatch130 GPS receiver has also an already integrated and optimised patch antenna and the same form factor and connectors as uPatch300, but is based on the Sony CXD2985 single chip.

As it is programmable with iSuite 3 SDK, the uPatch130 facilitates customer cost savings by enabling the programming of applications on the existing ARM 7 core.

As all uPatch GPS receivers, the uPatch300 and the uPatch130 offer very high navigation performance in a compact cost-effective design.

The receivers are ideally suited for navigation and recreational devices as well as GPS mouse type applications in which high performance and low cost are key issues.

The new uPatch receivers are form factor and pin compatible, which further extends the multiplatform concept introduced within the iTrax family.

'The three products now introduced significantly strengthen the Fastrax iTrax and uPatch GPS receiver offerings'.

'The iTrax310 reduces the size of surface mount GPS receivers even further and is definitely one of the smallest GPS receivers available on the market'.

'The uPatch300 and uPatch130 expand Fastrax's multiplatform concept, which is the first in the industry to provide a common form factor between multiple OEM GPS receivers based on different chipsets'.

'Customers have varying requirements and by strengthening our GPS offering we are able to serve more customers even better than before'.

'Many customers have expressed interest in a product like the uPatch300', said Taneli Tuurnala, President and CEO, Fastrax.

Wireless addition expands alarm system appeal

2007-07-10T21:55:00.000-07:00

Alpha Micro has applied its expertise in GSM and GPRS technologies to the design of a new alarm system that can be deployed in areas where access to wired communications is limited
Securitas, a security company founded in Sweden, approached GE Security, one of the leading suppliers of security and life safety technologies, to design a new alarm system that could be deployed throughout Scandinavia and the rest of Europe, where access to wired communications is limited. As the system was required to include remote monitoring capabilities, GE Security chose Alpha Micro Components as its technology partner.

Alpha Micro has considerable expertise in GSM and GPRS technologies.

Securitas wanted to offer its existing and future customers remote monitoring of their alarm systems, and so the company approached GE Security to develop a new system with this capability.

As GE's lead partner for this technology, it defined the specifications together for a system which would include a key module to allow the monitoring of buildings in remote areas that lacked fixed-line telephone connection.

The system would be able to send alarm alerts and video alerts from remote sites, speeding up response times and reducing unnecessary responses to false alarms from more than 10,000 network installations spread throughout Scandinavia and Europe.

For this, GE Security needed to develop a GSM and GPRS reporting module.

It chose Alpha Micro to assist with this aspect of the development thanks to Alpha's expertise in this field and the successful completion of past projects.

GE Security with help from Alpha Micro designed a complex communication module called the CS7002.

It is a multifunctional GPRS, GSM, SMS communication unit, designed to transmit information triggered by an alarm system to a mobile phone or an alarm reporting centre (ARC), using a GSM wireless network.

The module, a first of its kind, is primarily for residential and small office use, but can also be adapted for commercial applications.

The wireless capabilities are a key component in the alarm system.

Alpha Micro and partner Sagem assisted in overcoming several interoperability issues with the various network operators working in various different territories The alarm system is equipped with different sensors including a camera capturing video clips of the event which triggered the alarm.

These video feeds are processed by a special video unit (VVMIQ) and sent through the GPRS module to the monitoring centre helping the operating team of the system to distinguish between a false alarm and a real emergency.

This new function can help to reduce the costs of the companies using such systems as they no longer need to attend false alarms in person.

The time for recognition of a real emergency is also reduced and the police or other services can be alerted quicker, as well as being provided with exact information about the situation at the property.

The security team is able to recognise the nature of the alarm through the different categories such as fire alarm, burglary alarm, medical alarm, panic alarm etc.

Alarm reporting can be done using the audio channel in all supported protocols or in SIA and Contact ID format using TCP/IP connection over GPRS to a compatible Osborne Hoffman network receiver.

Alarm reporting can also be done through the audio channel in combination with a CS535 voice module or via SMS to an SMS compatible monitoring station.

Furthermore, the GSM can be used to provide remote system operation and two-way audio with the CS534 module.

The CS7002 can report an SMS directly to an end-user's mobile phone using the same text indication and language as displayed on the keypad.

This is useful when end-users want to monitor their own installations or just need to be kept informed about the report sent to the central station.

A central station can also work with the GSM network operator to receive the messages directly from the SMS server.

GE Security was looking to design in-house a new TCP/IP module for the alarm system, which would have taken up much time and effort.

Through working with Alpha Micro, the company was able to use Alpha's own module as a base from which all necessary programming and testing could be carried out.

This significantly reduced the time to market of the project, which, for such a complex device, is normally protracted.

GE Security also greatly benefited from Alpha Micro's close partnership with Sagem, using secured laboratory testing facilities and engineers based in France, where they conducted a number of tests.

Wired communications are becoming harder to access in remote locations and new connections are often GSM.

The CS7002 offers the voice reporting function for those people who no longer have a PSTN line, or for security backup reasons.

The CS7002 can report via all reporting protocols available in the panel, such as SIA, CID, Fast Format and even prerecorded messages from the CS535 voice module.

It's easy to install and by simply inserting a SIM card the network connection happens automatically.

GPRS allows the CS7002 to report all events over an IP network to an OH2000-Netrec IP receiver.

The advantage of the technology is that it can remain continually connected to a network.

The CS7002 will get an IP address from the DHCP pool available at each GSM cell and the network will then allow to exchange data whenever needed.

A configured poll message can then monitor the connection between CS7002 and the receiver.

The CS7002 fully supports remote up/downloading of all the panel settings by connecting to the IP address assigned to the CS7002.

The CS7002 GPRS as part of the GE Security's video verification module (VVMIQ) was nominated best new product in the Detektor International Awards ceremony in Sweden.

Christos Papakyriacou, Managing Director of Alpha Micro comments: 'Our work with GE Security was a challenge: to design a new multifunctional communicating device according to very specific criteria'.

'As a result of close co-operation to utilise Alpha Micro's expertise in GPRS design, the CS7002 as part of the video verification module (VVMIQ) has significantly reduced unnecessary costs and activity for security companies, allowing them to concentrate on real emergencies'.

'Companies are increasingly realising the benefits that wireless technology can deliver across various industries'.

Paper explains ULP Bluetooth

2007-07-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

Wireless developments cut time to market

2007-07-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

DECT module adapts to the US market

2007-06-18T22:58:00.000-07:00

Cordless voice module is now available with DECT 6.0 support, covering the 1920-1930MHz frequency band recently allocated in the USA for unlicensed personal communication services

SiTel Semiconductor has developed a DECT 6.0 cordless voice module for the US market. The CVM module integrates a radio transceiver and baseband with a complete protocol stack on a single chip, and has been a success for more than three years. This module enabled system designers to design more easily and cost-effectively a DECT or 2.4GHz cordless application.
In this way the CVM adds cordless phone functionality to their products.

SiTel developed the CVM in co-operation with RTX Telecom, a Denmark-based wireless product developer.

The module is now available with DECT 6.0 support, which is the frequency band recently allocated (1920-1930MHz) in the USA for unlicensed personal communication services (UPCS)
The standard CVM DECT Flash version can be used by just reflashing the module with the new DECT 6.0 software.

The cordless voice modules are used in cordless telephones, point of sale terminals, intercom systems, cordless conference phones and cordless headsets.

Due to consumer need in North America for an interference free cordless voice standard, the market acceptance of DECT 6.0 is accelerating.

Besides the quiet, clean spectrum, DECT 6.0 offers solid security standards, ensuring private conversations and better range than 2.4GHz or 5.8GHz phone systems.

The rapid growth of WLAN and Wi-Fi products in the home is the main reason for the expected success of DECT 6.0, as this UPCS band is interference free.

'SiTel's cordless voice module with DECT 6.0 software, allows our customers to develop easily and fast new cordless products, taking advantage of this new US interference free frequency band', says Arend van der Weijden, SiTel Semiconductor Marketing and Sales Director.

Wireless developments cuttime to market

2007-06-18T22:49:00.000-07:00

Digi-Key has a range of wireless modules and development tools from Free2move

Digi-Key can now supply a range of wireless modules from Free2move following the signing of a global distribution agreement. Free2move is a leading producer of wireless technology for industry and enterprise. Free2move aims to cut time to market, complexity and development risk for its customers by offering high performance wireless technologies as self-contained modules with rich and easy-to-use interface options combined with excellent developer support.
Digi-Key is stocking Free2move's high performance Bluetooth modules for surface mounting with built-in software for data and audio communication.

Digi-Key is also stocking Free2move's widely used serial port plug adapter that provides plug-and-play serial connections between devices.

These products, as well as the development tools for the modules, will be featured in both Digi-Key's print and online catalogues and available for purchase directly from Digi-Key.
This new distribution agreement will enable Digi-Key to fulfil both the design and production quantity needs of its diverse customer base.

'We are very excited to add Free2move to our list of supplier partners', says Mark Larson, Digi-Key's President and COO.

'Its innovative products are sure to be of consequential interest and appeal to Digi-Key's customers'.

'Free2move is delighted to establish Digi-Key as the cornerstone of our distribution in North America and in other regions', says Per-Arne Wiberg, Managing Director of Free2move.

'We are confident that Free2move's technology portfolio will further solidify Digi-Key's growth, and we are eager to provide excellent support to Digi-Key and its customers'.

Wireless developments cut time to market

2007-06-16T02:01:00.000-07:00

Digi-Key has a range of wireless modules and development tools from Free2move

Digi-Key can now supply a range of wireless modules from Free2move following the signing of a global distribution agreement. Free2move is a leading producer of wireless technology for industry and enterprise. Free2move aims to cut time to market, complexity and development risk for its customers by offering high performance wireless technologies as self-contained modules with rich and easy-to-use interface options combined with excellent developer support.
Digi-Key is stocking Free2move's high performance Bluetooth modules for surface mounting with built-in software for data and audio communication.

Digi-Key is also stocking Free2move's widely used serial port plug adapter that provides plug-and-play serial connections between devices.

These products, as well as the development tools for the modules, will be featured in both Digi-Key's print and online catalogues and available for purchase directly from Digi-Key.
This new distribution agreement will enable Digi-Key to fulfil both the design and production quantity needs of its diverse customer base.

'We are very excited to add Free2move to our list of supplier partners', says Mark Larson, Digi-Key's President and COO.

'Its innovative products are sure to be of consequential interest and appeal to Digi-Key's customers'.

'Free2move is delighted to establish Digi-Key as the cornerstone of our distribution in North America and in other regions', says Per-Arne Wiberg, Managing Director of Free2move.

'We are confident that Free2move's technology portfolio will further solidify Digi-Key's growth, and we are eager to provide excellent support to Digi-Key and its customers'.

Paper explains ULP Bluetooth

2007-06-16T01:58:00.000-07:00

Ezurio has produced a new White Paper explaining the opportunities that Wibree will offer

The Bluetooth SIG and Nokia have announced that the Wibree standard will be merged into the Bluetooth SIG family of standards, bringing an ultra low power capability to wireless products. Bluetooth is already the world's most successful short range radio technology, shipping around two million chipsets every day.
The promise that Wibree brings is to increase that shipment rate by another order of magnitude.

Ezurio has been at the forefront of enabling embedded wireless technology.

The company welcomes the addition of this new ultra low power capability to the standard, which will serve to banish cables from even more everyday products.
The low cost and simplicity of integration of Wibree means that designers can look afresh at product design.

To help explain the potential of this new technology Ezurio has produced a new White Paper explaining the opportunities that Wibree will offer.

Its unique ability to cohabit with a Bluetooth radio will ensure that it quickly achieves a critical mass in the market, which in turn will drive a host of applications for personal accessories.

These will spawn a new market for service providers, particularly in the healthcare and well-being markets.

Ezurio's Wibree White Paper can be downloaded from the company's website.

It explains the opportunities for using Wibree to develop location based services, personal healthcare devices and e-health offerings, home automation, energy conservation and remote control.

The promise of a robust standard and chipsets in 2008 means that product designers need to start thinking now about how they can use Wibree to transform their product offerings.