MeshNetworks, Inc. a leading developer of mobile broadband networking
technology, today announced the delivery and commercial availability of its
Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). The chip offers OEMs a
cost-effective solution for adding MeshNetworks’ Multi-Hop routing technology,
high-speed data rates, Quality of Service (QoS) management, and precision
geo-location to mobile computing, telematics and entertainment platforms.
The ASIC was designed using a “radio agnostic” philosophy, which supports
seamless integration with a wide range of radio technologies — including
OFDM, 802.11, ultrawideband and MeshNetworks’ patented QDMA broadband radio
solution. It is designed specifically for mobile devices and is a key
component of the mobile broadband PC card recently announced by MeshNetworks.
The chip is also suitable for non-mobile applications, since it eliminates
line-of-sight issues and truck rolls for last-mile broadband access
installations.
“MeshNetworks’ approach relieves the user device of all mobile ad hoc
networking tasks by embedding a high performance processor in their ASIC
architecture,” said Anik Bose, Vice President, 3Com Ventures. “Applications will
run faster, resulting in a higher quality user experience.”
“The commercial availability of the MeshNetworks’ ASIC makes ad hoc, peer-
to-peer networking a reality today,” said Masood Garahi, chairman and CEO of
MeshNetworks. “Any wireless device, such as laptops, PDAs and portable
multimedia players can now be enabled with MeshNetworks’ self-forming, self-
healing, and self-balancing mobile broadband technology.”
The first application of the MeshNetworks ASIC is planned for ViewSonic’s
SuperPDA and ViewPad Tablet PC products. A joint technology and market
development initiative between the two companies was previously announced in
March 2002. ViewSonic is one of the numerous industry leaders participating in
the MeshPartner Alliance Program.
The MeshNetworks ASIC is now available to licensees. Quantity pricing is
available and includes silicon, software and all Intellectual Property
royalties. Companies interested in becoming a MeshNetworks’ licensee can contact
the company’s sales department via e-mail at sales@meshnetworks.com.
MeshNetworks will be demonstrating its breakthrough technology and products
in a featured two-hour technical session at the 802.11 Planet conference &
Expo in Philadelphia on June 10, 2002.
MeshNetworks has developed a mobile broadband network architecture based on
patented ad hoc peer-to-peer (p2p) routing technology. The result is a
self-forming, self-healing wireless mesh where mobile devices become the
network. MeshNetwork’s Multi-Hopping routing technology offers non-line-of-sight
broadband connectivity, while eliminating the need for towers and extensive
system design. MeshNetworks addresses the needs of both mobile and fixed
wireless broadband applications. MeshNetworks is a venture- backed startup,
whose investors include: Apax Partners, BancBoston Ventures, Inc., ITT
Industries, Redwood Ventures, and 3Com Ventures.
