5.8-GHz Transceiver Module Arrives

In factory and industrial environments, the crowding of frequency bands has limited the growth of wireless networks. Between the crowded 2.4-GHz and 900-MHz bands, congestion issues continue to arise. Now, a solution to this problem may have been spawned in a 5.8-GHz wireless OEM transceiver module. Coming from Cirronet, Inc., the WIT5811 plans to outfit designers and engineering managers with the company's patented frequency-hopping spread-spectrum (FHSS) technology. At the same time, it promises to help them avoid interfering with 802.11b networks in lower bands.

With its asynchronous serial interface, the WIT5811 integrates easily into new and existing product designs. It supplies wireless-communications capability at up to 1.23 Mbps. The module's 250 mW of transmit power provides a 90-ft. range indoors and over 3000 ft. outdoors. That range can extend to more than five miles with optional gain antennas. To enhance its flexibility, the WIT5811 supports both point-to-point and point-to-multipoint network configurations.

The WIT5811 module is FCC certified. General availability is planned for the fourth quarter of this year. A developer's kit comprising the WIT5811 modules, standalone battery-operated modems, and associated software is available directly from the company.