Sierra Wireless announced a Linux-compatible embedded module aimed at fixed wireless terminals and portable handhelds running on EV-DO Revision A networks. The Sierra Wireless MC5728V module is built on Qualcomm's QSC6085 chipset, offers the company's “Tru-Flow” traffic management technology, and boasts speeds of up… to 3.1Mbps.

(Click for larger view of MC5728V module )

The MC5728V module uses the PCI Express Mini Card “F2” form factor, and measures 2 x 1.18 x 0.17 inches (51 x 30 x 4.5mm), says Sierra Wireless. It is built around a Qualcomm QSC6085 chip that was announced last week, which was designed specifically for EV-DO modems. Qualcomm has yet to post much detailed information on the chip, but the company's press release may be found here.

The module is said to be the first Sierra Wireless EV-DO product to include its Tru-Flow technology, which is claimed to reduce congestion caused by a device attempting to upload and download over the 3G EV-DO network at the same time. Tru-Flow monitors IP traffic and throughput to optimize uploads and downloads, and in the face of uplink congestion, can “theoretically” increase download throughput by a factor or nine, claims the company. The technology is said to improve performance even over VPN connections, and over any EV-DO network.

Additional features and benefits listed for the Sierra Wireless MC5728V include:

• Peak data speeds of up to 3.1Mbps (downlink) and up to 1.8Mbps (uplink)
• EMConnect firmware, enabling stand-alone radio interface mode, which reduces dependence on host processors
• Support for GPS to enable location-based services and telematics applications
• Support for simultaneous voice and data usage
• Backwards compatible to EV-DO Rel O and CDMA 1x networks
• Dual Band 800/1900MHz bands with “Receive Diversity” support on both bands

Software development kits (SDKs) are available for Linux, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows CE, and Windows Mobile, and are backed up by “professional services for design, integration, testing, and device certification,” says the company. In December, the company released a Linux SDK for all its HSPA- and EV-DO Rev-compatible modems.

Stated Greg Speakman, VP of Marketing for Sierra Wireless, “The MC5728V embedded module offers our OEM customers greater product endurance and flexibility, along with firmware features that improve product development time and device performance.”

Availability

The Sierra Wireless MC5728V is sampling now to select OEM customers and will ship in quantity mid-year 2009, says the company. More information may be found here.

 
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