Cyrix Employs Harris Radio Technology in Wireless Internet Device

Cyrix Corp., a subsidiary of National Semiconductor, has incorporated Harris Semiconductor's PRISM radio technology in a new reference design. By incorporating Harris' RF technology, Cyrix's WebPAD reference design lets design engineers develop portable terminals that deliver wireless Internet connections in a home or office environment.

The new reference design includes specifications for the MediaGX processor-powered WebPAD, a charging cradle, and a base station transceiver. The base station transceiver connects to the telephone or network system and wirelessly communicates with the mobile WebPAD. The base station can be located near telephone and network connections, allowing users to carry the WebPAD anywhere in and around the home or office.

Harris' PRISM technology enables engineers to set up a direct sequence, spread spectrum (DSSS) wireless system that operates across the 2.4 GHz range. This technology meets IEEE 802.11 wireless local-area networking (WLAN) specifications, providing 1 and 2 Mb/s data rates. PRISM also supports the proposed IEEE 802.11 high data rate specification for operation at 11 Mb/s (See http://news.wirelessdesignonline.com/ industry-news/19981117-3793.html).

Cyrix's WebPAD reference design will be available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) under a no-fee license program. OEMs can customize their WebPAD-based products to meet the requirements of specific markets and price points. Pricing will be determined by the OEMs.