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Certified Wireless USB
Intel leads the way in providing a version of USB, called Wireless USB that strives to eliminate wire clutter and provide the convenience of high speed wireless technology for consumers.
Specifications
- Wireless USB Specification Revision 1.0
- Wireless Host Controller Interface Specification Revision 0.95
- Wireless MAC-PHY Interface Connector Specification 0.95 (PDF 224KB)
Getting rid of the wires
Wireless USB combines the benefits of wired USB with the convenience of wireless technology. By using an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) radio defined by the WiMedia Alliance, Wireless USB may deliver signaling rates up to 480 Mbps at three meters (and up to 110 Mbps at 10 meters). As a personal area wireless technology, Certified Wireless USB has been designed for high-throughput, short-range communication. It is not a networking technology.
Related links
Broad industry support
Wireless USB has many significant advantages compared to other personal area wireless technologies. Foremost is the existing strength of the certified USB brand among consumers and the investment that manufacturers have in the USB architecture. Certified Wireless USB extends this existing and well-understood infrastructure rather than completely uprooting it and replacing it with something new.
The Certified Wireless USB specification was developed by seven promoter companies-Agere Systems, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, Microsoft, NEC, Philips Semiconductors, and Samsung. Over 150 other companies have since become contributors to the Certified Wireless USB specification. Close involvement in the WiMedia Alliance will help ensure maximal industry coexistence and interoperability.
Compliance testing and logo certification
The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), a nonprofit industry trade association for USB standards, currently manages the Wireless USB specification. The USB-IF delivers compliance and certification testing, provides trademark license agreements, and certifies products for the use of the Certified Wireless USB logo and brand.
Getting involved
Consumers have indicated a strong preference for wireless technology: Manufacturers of personal computer, consumer electronic, and mobile devices should plan now to add Wireless USB support to their product roadmaps.
For more information or to become involved, consider becoming a Wireless USB adopter.
The Wireless USB Specification is available from the USB-IF web site.