NXP introduces mobile platform to deliver concurrent Bluetooth and Wireless LAN connectivity

February 5, 2007

NXP Semiconductors, formerly Philips Semiconductors, today announced an enhanced system solution enabling mobile users to simultaneously take advantage of handsets’ Bluetooth and Wireless LAN (WLAN) capabilities. The NXP Nexperia cellular system solution 5210, incorporating an unlicensed mobile access (UMA) software stack from Kineto Wireless, allows devices to be used at home over fixed-line broadband networks and while on the go via a cellular network. The simultaneous usage of Bluetooth and WLAN enables these calls to be made using a Bluetooth headset.

To overcome the challenges of operating WLAN and Bluetooth in the same frequency band and physical co-location without degrading data throughput or voice/audio quality, NXP has integrated a complex set of coexistence algorithms into the 5210’s baseband, its low-power BGW211 WLAN and Bluetooth solutions. This enables both connectivity functions to operate simultaneously without interference while delivering a compelling end-user experience. Additional algorithms have been added specifically for voice applications, ensuring crystal clear communications when using a Bluetooth headset.

“Fixed-mobile convergence is now a reality, with handset vendor support growing and many operators launching UMA services or planning to do so in the near future, said Carrie Pawsey, senior analyst, Ovum. “We anticipate UMA gathering pace in 2007 and fixed-mobile convergence is a major strategic market opportunity, which operators would be unwise to ignore.”

Incorporating NXP’s industry-proven UMA technology with a Kineto Wireless software stack, the flexible solution requires no additional setup by the consumer. UMA-enabled devices switch seamlessly between cellular networks and Wi-Fi hotspots, automatically detecting the fastest and most cost-effective network – reducing phone bills and increasing network coverage. UMA is particularly attractive to business users, with Wi-Fi use in offices, airports and hotels growing exponentially, offering substantial savings in mobile bills.

“Bluetooth’s ease of use has led to a high attach rate in mobile devices, with Bluetooth enabled headsets also growing in popularity,” said Christophe Joyau, international product marketing, NXP Semiconductors. “The ability to multitask has become invaluable to personal and business users alike, with new converged services offering a host of user experiences around Bluetooth and WLAN in mobile phones. Our 5210 solution is in tune with this trend, and enables mobile users to experience multiple functions over Bluetooth and WLAN, with little or no loss of sound quality and data rate.”

As a highly integrated and small form factor cellular system solution, the 5210 can be easily designed into new devices, ensuring minimal development costs and accelerating time to market. Combining a powerful single core with NXP’s BGB210S for advanced Bluetooth 2.0 EDR and NXP’s 802.11g WLAN (BGW211) with industry leading low-power performance, NXP’s latest system solution delivers an effective and intuitive multimedia experience on mobile devices.

Handsets based on NXP Nexperia cellular system solution 5210 are already on the market. The UMA/Bluetooth enhanced platform will be available in the first half of 2007.

Source: NXP