WAN-Independent Communication Processors Tackle Layer 2-7 Tasks

Targeted at makers of broadband communications equipment, such as routers, integrated access devices, and residential/SOHO gateways, the AD6x89 family of processors is designed to support secure, high-bandwidth voice and data transmissions across any WAN, including xDSL, cable, wireless local loop (WLL), Ethernet-in-the-First Mile (EFM), and T1/EI. The AD6x89 WAN-independent communications processors meld together a highly-integrated system-on-a-chip (SoC) and a powerful software suite to provide all of the functionality needed for handling Layer 2 to 7 tasks, including data/voice processing, packetization, routing, Fast Path quality of service (QoS), IP services, security, management, and WAN processing. The SoCs are said to provide a highly scaleable Security (IPSec) processing engine that includes a dedicated security processor and hardware assists for encryption (DES/3DES), authentication (MD5, SHA-1), and true random number generation. The communications processor family presently includes the AD6689 for voice and data applications and is priced at $45 each/10,000. The AD6489 for data only assignments costs $25. For voice applications, such as voice-over-IP (VoIP) and voice-over-ATM (VoATM), AD6689Õs DSP-based voice processing engine can handle up to 16 voice channels. The two processors will be available in Q4. In the mean time, a system-level implementation of the AD6x89 SoCs, called a Convergence Exchange Platform (CEP), is available to OEMs wanting to get a jump on developing their custom software applications for systems based on the new SoCs. ANALOG DEVICES INC., Santa Clara, CA. (408) 350-5009.