Microchip expands its Wireless Product Portfolio

Microchip Technology has announced a major expansion of its embedded-wireless portfolio.  

This Bluetooth portfolio addition includes the PIC32 Bluetooth Audio Development Kit, featuring modules, stacks and CODECs, and XBee footprint-compatible socket modules with integrated stacks.

The new Wi-Fi modules comprise IEEE 802.11b/g Wi-Fi modules with free source-code TCP/IP stack running on a PIC microcontroller for greater configurability, as well as XBee footprint-compatible socket modules with integrated stacks for ease of use.  Microchip is also adding a low-power 2.4 GHz radio that supports both the IEEE 802.15.4 and proprietary data rates (from 125 kbps to 2 Mbps), including the ZigBee, MiWi and other proprietary protocols.

Steve Caldwell, Director of Wireless Products Division, Microchip, said,  "Whether you are designing wireless networks optimized for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee or proprietary protocols, Microchip has you covered."

Microchip's next-generation, 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4 MRF24XA transceiver radio will provide low operating voltage range of 1.5 to 3.6V and receives power consumption of only 13 mA. It can support both the IEEE 802.15.4 and proprietary data rates (from 125 kbps to 2 Mbps), including the ZigBee, MiWi and other proprietary protocols.

The new wireless modules also include applications such as wireless sensor networks, remote monitoring/control and measurement, and M2M cable replacements for home, commercial and industrial networks. The RN XV series of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth socket modules provide agency-certified, drop-in connectivity for any XBee socket.