The single-chip IAD solution is the second development from SiTel and Broadcom’s ongoing cooperation. It follows the announcement in March 2009 that the two companies are jointly developing IAD reference designs based on Broadcom’s Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL) gateway chipsets and SiTel’s DECT / CAT-iq solutions. These reference designs cut the development time and effort for fully-featured IADs. The new single-chip device goes even further, allowing OEMs to greatly reduce component count, size, power and cost.
“Offering ultra-low power consumption and low cost, DECT is a proven technology for reliable, long-range wireless connectivity. When you factor in the extra functionality CAT-iq enables, like increased bandwidth for high definition sound and streaming wireless music, it’s an ideal match for IADs. By working with Broadcom, one of the world’s largest fabless semiconductor manufacturers, we aim to bring this exciting possibility to the widest market possible,” said Marius Bouman Product Marketing Manager of SiTel Semiconductor.
Electronics industry analyst IMS Research predicts that the number of DSL broadband internet users in the world will rise from 234 million in 2007 to 407 million by 2013. During the same period, the proportion of IADs shipped that include DECT or CAT-iq functionality is projected to grow from 4% to 31% with the advanced features and better sound quality of CAT-iq replacing the elder technology entirely by around 2012. For every ten gateways shipped, between five and seven additional handsets are expected to be bought.