Oki aims to jumpstart Bluetooth with module, chip set and software package

Oki aims to jumpstart Bluetooth with module, chip set and software package
By Semiconductor Business News
July 23, 2001 (10:37 a.m. EST)
URL: http://www.eetimes.com/story/OEG20010723S0023

SUNNYVALE, Calif. -- Oki Semiconductor today launched a complete Bluetooth systems solution, including a module with chip set, software, an antenna and connector for products connecting to the short-range wireless link. The 18-by-38-mm module and Bluetooth protocol-stack software are intended to help accelerate product introductions in the marketplace.

The U.S.-based chip subsidiary of Japan's Oki Electric Industry Co Ltd. said it is using advanced multi-chip packaging technology to reduce the size of the Bluetooth module. Oki's Bluetooth chip set is being sold for less than $15 per set in volume quantities. The module will be available in September at a price under $35 in volume quantities.

Despite a slow start in the marketplace, Bluetooth wireless connections are expected to proliferate worldwide during the next several years, according to Oki. The company cited projections of $1.3 billion in sales for 2.4-GHz wireless products by 2006 , according to Frost & Sullivan. Wireless home networks are expected to grow, creating an environment for many Bluetooth radio-frequency connections, said Oki.

"Bluetooth equipped devices allow users to connect a wide range of computing and telecommunications devices easily and simply, without the need to buy, carry, or connect cables," said Eric Nguyen, senior product marketing manager for telecom products at Oki Semiconductor. "It delivers opportunities for rapid ad hoc connections, and the possibility of automatic, hassle-free connections between devices.

"With Bluetooth connected devices, interference is prevented or managed by means of forward error correction and automatic repeat request," he said. "Using a common connectivity protocol, Bluetooth assures compatibility between devices made by different manufacturers."

Oki is making available a Bluetooth software development system for $2,850 per kit.