WiFi chips target the IoE

The QCA401x is Qualcomm Atheros’ most integrated and feature-rich intelligent connectivity solution to date for the IoE. The device is designed to answer manufacturer demand for increased computing, memory and advanced features while lowering size, cost and power consumption. It features a fully integrated MCU unit with up to 800KB of on-chip memory available to programmers and an expanded set of interfaces to directly interconnect with sensors, displays and actuators, further reducing system cost, size and complexity. In addition, the QCA401x includes a suite of communication protocols including WiFi, IPv6, HTTP and other cloud enablers, as well as an advanced security feature designed to maximise security in the smallest IoE devices. The QCA401x is currently being sampled by leading OEMs.

The QCA4531 is a low-cost turnkey solution that brings high-performance connectivity capabilities with a user-programmable Linux/OpenWRT environment benefiting from the extended range based on 2x2 11n. It is designed to serve as a feature-rich IoE node leveraging the Linux framework and as a hub to enable an IoE Ecosystem. As the IoE ecosystem expands, the device is suitable for multi-protocol bridging and communication, bringing together multiple wireless medium and bridging between different ecosystems. The QCA4531 can function as an AP supporting up to 16 simultaneous devices, and is also power-optimised to enable appliances to meet international standards for energy efficiency. The QCA4531 is currently shipping to leading appliance manufacturers and other IoE-focused customers.

Both the QCA401x and the QCA4531 come pre-integrated with Allseen Alliance’s AllJoyn software framework, ensuring interoperability with the rapidly expanding AllJoyn ecosystem that is designed to enable smart devices to communicate locally. The QCA401x enables AllJoyn IoE clients, and the QCA4531 is capable of becoming an AllJoyn IoE hub.

“A big part of Qualcomm Atheros’ strategy for the IoE is pairing the right mix of connectivity and computing capabilities from our deep technology portfolios to address the varying needs of the IoE,” said Joseph Bousaba, Senior Director, Product Management, Qualcomm Atheros. “Both the QCA401x and QCA4531 align to this strategy and pair well with the range of offerings from our intelligent connectivity portfolio, including the QCA4002 and the QCA4004 solutions, which have shipped in over 35m products since their launch.”