Micrel Semiconductor and Arcturus Networks have released a hardware and software reference design for residential gateways. The design includes ARM-based network processors from Micrel and residential gateway (RG) software from Arcturus. It targets OEMs developing RG, SOHO (small office/home office), and WLAN (wireless LAN) devices.

Arcturus RG software is based on uClinux, a small embedded Linux distribution that Arcturus helps maintain. Arcturus was founded by uClinux originators, including D. Jeff Dionne. It specializes in residential gateway software, and has also released reference designs based on ARM-core Samsung processors.

Micrel's KS8695 family includes:

• The base KS8695X, with ARM922-T core and 5-port Ethernet switch with built in MACs and PHYs.
• The KS8695 adds an external MAC interface to support alternative PHY interfaces such as HomePlug or HPNA 2.0.
• The KS8695PX adds a PCI interface, which supports a single external PCI device for WLAN applications.
• The KS8695P can support up to 3 PCI devices for applications beyond the router such as multimedia and storage.

“The industry is only starting to realize the profound need for highly manageable network appliances,” said Rich Larsen, Arcturus COO. “OEMs need to reduce support burdens and installation headaches, while service providers need to retain control over their devices and networks. Our software, combined with Micrel's hardware, enables the development of a broad range of highly manageable, integrated devices.”

 
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