Skyworks Solutions Inc., an innovator of high performance analog semiconductors enabling a broad range of end markets, announced that its industry leading wireless connectivity front-end modules (FEMs) are being leveraged by Broadcom Corp. for use in several of the company’s 5G WiFi solutions, enabling some of the fastest download speeds available in access points, routers, DSL/cable gateways, PCs, smartphones and tablets. Skyworks’ complete 2.4 and 5 gigahertz (GHz) 802.11a/g/n/ac solutions integrate the power amplifier, filter, power detector, transmit/receive (T/R) switch, diplexer and associated matching in an ultra-compact form factor, delivering all the essential functionality from the output of the SOC to the antenna.
“With digital content consumption on the rise, particularly as consumers watch video on more devices and in more places around the home, Broadcom is closely collaborating with Skyworks to deliver solutions that offer the industry’s fastest wireless speeds and enhance the overall user experience,” said Dino Bekis, vice president, Marketing, Wireless Connectivity at Broadcom. “Skyworks’ wireless connectivity modules provide world-class performance, making them an ideal choice for Broadcom’s reference designs.”
“Skyworks is excited to be a part of Broadcom’s 5G WiFi platforms enabling next generation mobile devices and customer premise equipment,” said Liam K. Griffin, executive vice president and corporate general manager at Skyworks. “Broadcom and Skyworks have a long history of partnering to deliver market leading solutions with performance and cost advantages for both manufacturers and consumers. This engagement comes as market demand for 5G WiFi is accelerating across developed and emerging markets.”
By next year, 802.11ac is expected to be the dominant standard and its reach is expected to go well beyond just smartphones, tablets and computers. According to a study by Strategy Analytics, sales of consumer devices compatible with 802.11ac, including routers and gateways, will grow and surpass one billion units by the end of 2015 and 2.8 billion in 2017. The 802.11ac deployment will initially involve smartphones and tablets with connected televisions, media players and other devices to follow.