Motorola has announced plans to support Intel's new Communication Networking Riser (CNR) card definition for desktop PC platforms. This means Motorola's software communication solutions now can be integrated onto motherboards based on the new CNR hardware specifications.
CNR expands on Intel's audio/modem riser (AMR) card specifications. It defines support for communication combination cards based on technologies such as V.90 modems, home PNA, Ethernet LANs, and broadband DSL modems. Also, the Communications Network Riser definition is fully compliant with Windows Plug and Play specifications, and it is designed to share—rather than replace—a PCI slot to allow for CNR/PCI configuration flexibility.
"Intel's new riser card initiative is a welcome move forward in addressing issues of cost, installation, small-form factor, and configuration flexibility," said Mike Tramontano, marketing director of Motorola's Software Products Division. "The bottom line for CNR is that both PC OEMs and end users alike will leverage the value of software-based communications technology to add richer functionality and lower systems costs."
Intel and Motorola worked to bring soft modems to the PC platform. Recently, modem-on-motherboard designs have been adopted by top-tier PC OEMs.
For more information, contact Mike Tramontano at (508) 261-5778 or [email protected]. Details also are available on the company's website at www.motorola.com/semiconductors.