Conexant Systems, Inc. and Sharp Corp. have jointly developed the world's smallest and lowest standby power wireless local area network (WLAN) module. The WiFi module is fully compliant with the IEEE 802.11b/g standard and is targeted at products for embedded mobile applications, including cellular/WLAN handsets. The two companies leveraged Conexant's power-efficient CX3110X chip and Sharp's advanced micro packaging technology to develop the compact module. The module will be distributed by both Conexant and Sharp.

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"Sharp is a powerhouse in the consumer electronics industry, and we're pleased to team with them on a project that will help propel WiFi technology into a broader range of consumer devices," said Chee Kwan, vice president and general manager of Wireless Networking for Conexant. "Low power and small form factor are critical parameters for embedded mobile applications. Sharp's innovative packaging technology and our proficiency in WLAN technology allowed us to solve these challenges and deliver a high-performance solution that will allow product developers to quickly integrate WiFi into new and existing products. In addition, we can leverage this leading-edge, low-power product to span all industry standards including 802.11n."

Sharp and Conexant have a long-standing strategic relationship. Previous product engagements include Sharp's development of the industry's first wireless video adaptor, which is also based on Conexant's WLAN technology. The adaptor allows users to send video from sources such as PCs and video camcorders to a wireless LCD television. According to industry analyst firm InStat, shipments of WiFi-enabled consumer devices including cellular handsets, PDAs, games and other handheld products are expected to exceed 180 million units in 2009.

The co-developed, small footprint WLAN module is less than 100 sq. mm, and leverages Conexant's intelligent PowerSave technology to deliver more than 600 minutes of talk time and 300 hours of standby mode. Software features include an embedded thin driver that enables easy integration into a host system.