Texas Instruments Unveils 802.11n, Bluetooth 2.1 and FM Chip
WirelessWeek writes…On the heels of Broadcom’s announcement late last week, Texas Instruments (TI) unveils its own tri-radio chip that takes integration a step further.
The new chip uses 65 nanometer process to include 802.11n, Bluetooth 2.1 and FM radios on a single, low-power platform with the goal of making it affordable for use in mass-market mobile handsets.
Called the WiLink 6.0, the chip is the first to include support for IEEE draft 802.11n, which will provide better coverage and reception. The WiLink 6.0 is part of a tightly integrated monolithic solution that enables added functionality, allowing them to send and receive more data on their mobile phones with an enhanced voice and audio experience.
Integrating the three radios onto a single chip will enable handset makers to quickly and seamlessly integrate the three functions into handsets that provide enhanced services to end users. Operators and service providers deploying dual-mode phones expect 802.11n to help improve voice call quality, reduce dropped calls, lower support costs and improve reliability in VoWLAN applications.
“Mobile devices with both WLAN and Bluetooth are primarily found in the high-end of the global handset market today. A more affordable, integrated mWLAN and Bluetooth solution should help push these key technologies toward the mid- and low-tier segments, and into the hands of more mass-market users,” said Neil Mawston, associate director of the Global Wireless Practice, Strategy Analytics.
