How Low Can You Go

By Michael Foley
iApplianceWeb
(05/24/01, 08:55:46 AM EDT)

MediaSolv is releasing a reference design, system-on-chip (SoC) IP, and software to reduce the cost of PDA manufacturing. The PDA enables real-time access and management of email, calendar, contacts, and other personal information. Based on the company's Bluetooth enabled ETHERchip technology, the PDA will cost as little as $25.

ETHERchip is a complete system-on-chip (SoC), with embedded ARM processor, memory, control circuitry, system software, and Bluetooth radio. The application on board provides personal information management (PIM) functionality with provision for deployment of other custom features. Usability is enhanced by MediaSolv's sKey technology, a predictive text scheme tailored for the Internet PIM environment. The design is also capable of accepting remote firmware updates while providing a channel for device controls, maintenance, and related tasks.

The Bluetooth radio onboard ETHERchip will connect to the Internet using any gateway within the personal area network (PAN). Bluetooth Internet gateways are available from companies such as Red-M, Ericsson, and Invtentel.

The ETHERchip solution is available on an OEM basis, with server side functionality made possible by MediaSolv's server suites, which provide access to messaging and groupware functionality via any Web or WAP browser. The ETHERchip and PDA reference design will be available to manufacturers and service providers.