Bluetooth Silicon Triples Data Rates

Designed for enhanced data rate (EDR) Bluetooth, the BlueCore4 promises data rates that are three-times faster than current v1.2 Bluetooth devices, as well as lower power consumption. The silicon is backward compatible with existing v1.1 and v1.2 devices and achieves the higher data rates via a phase shift keying modulation scheme in place of the standard Gaussian frequency shift keying method. It is available in two versions: one for use with external flash memory and another with mask ROM. The chip comes in an 8 mm x 8 mm BGA package and is said to be the only silicon currently available to offer all mandatory and optional features of the v1.2 specification. For more details and pricing, call CSR PLC, Richardson, TX. (972) 238-2300.