Bluetooth Design Enables Wireless Access To Ethernet LANs

A new Bluetooth reference design is expected to enable OEMs to create Ethernet access point devices with a total bill of materials half that of currently available solutions. The reference design consists of Bluetooth, Ethernet and Internet protocol software modules that are programmed into the on-chip flash memory of the company's IP2022 Internet processor chip. The implementation currently supports version 1.1 of the Bluetooth technology specification, 10Base-T Ethernet, a complete suite of Internet protocols, and the access point application software. The IP2022 interfaces with a Signia Technologies chip set that consists of a radio chip and a baseband controller. This chip set performs the wireless communications functions. Access point devices created using the reference design allow simultaneous connection of up to seven active and 32 inactive mobil users to an Ethernet LAN in a "piconet" point-to-multipoint manner. Applications encompass any area in which wireless access to wired resources is desired, including offices, conference rooms, and networked homes. The total price of all the components needed to implement the Bluetooth/Ethernet access point reference design is about $30 in volume. A software license fee will also apply. UBICOM INC., Mountain View, CA. (650) 210-1500.