Ethertronics has released the first of the EtherChip line of RF devices to enable Ethertronics’ game-changing Active Steering™ technology for WiFi and other 5 GHz applications. The EtherChip EC482 has been specifically designed for Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) 5 GHz and WiFi applications, with superior single- and multi-antenna performance at frequencies even beyond the WiFi high-band. Ultra-fast RF switching seamlessly supports WiFi air interface protocols. Very low off capacitance provides ample control in switching reactances at high WiFi frequencies. Embedded in the EC482 are Ethertronics’ proprietary algorithm and communication and control conduits to enable Active Steering for WiFi applications. Ethertronics’ worldwide applications team can easily integrate EC482 into a variety of products, including access points, set-top boxes, WiFi clients, WiFi extenders, wearables and other Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Ethertronics’ Active Steering technology generates multiple radiation patterns from a single antenna structure. EC482 enables Ethertronics’ Active Steering “beam steering” technique from a wireless device by monitoring RF link performance, and through a combination of closed loop and predictive algorithms, optimally selects the antenna radiation pattern that provides the best RF link performance. The EC482 is the master controller of this process, containing not only the RF electronics, which are used to implement the steering of the antenna beam, but also the control software and embedded processor that host Ethertronics’ proprietary algorithm, which continuously and intelligently optimizes the RF communications link for exceptional performance. This capability provides for revolutionary improvements in range, data throughput and signal quality for applications such as video streaming. Additional advantages include interference reduction, robustness in multipath environments, improved connection reliability and better spectral efficiency.
With the integration of the EC482 in set-top boxes, cable and satellite providers will reap a number of benefits – from high-performance video streaming to major OpEx savings. Active Steering technology autonomously beam steers for the best RF communication link, allowing consumers to easily self-install these WiFi boxes in their own homes, regardless of orientation or location, and further reduces the need for on-site technician assistance. WiFi Active Steering on the 5GHz band delivers enhanced data throughput and expanded data traffic. The EC482 additionally enables seamless WiFi offloading capabilities for wide area network wireless operators.
With an operating frequency range of 100 MHz to 7000 MHz, it has a small footprint that measures 3 x 3 x 0.75 mm in a QFN 24-pin package. Very low power consumption is required for operation, which makes the EC482 suitable for battery-operated systems.
Ethertronics will be showcasing its new EtherChip EC482 and Active Steering solutions in its booth during Mobile World Congress from 2 to 5 March in Barcelona.
