Embedded software and services developer Wind River Systems today announced the availability of WLAN technology for its VxWorks real-time operating system (RTOS) and its Tornado for Home Gateways platform. The new technology is designed to be integrated with Intersil’s PRISM II 802.11b WLAN chip set.
Intersil’s PRISM technology and PRISM II chip set for 802.11b are expected to provide the basis for developing complete solutions with this and other smart device architectures.
The company’s WindNet 802.11b Device Driver Kit provides source code support for 802.11b hardware. WindRiver stated that the solution will incorporate enhanced support for Intersil’s PRISM II Wi-Fi-certified WLAN chipset. Potential uses for the Wind River solution include consumer networking gear, industrial automation products, and medical monitoring products incorporated into OEM-designed embedded devices.
Used in conjunction with Wind River’s Tornado for Home Gateways platform, the new 802.11b Device Driver Kit can be applied to development of wireless access point and other WLAN equipment for the home/office. Wind River cited Cahners In-Stat analysis stating that the residential market is the fastest growing segment of the WLAN business.
The company also stated that it will conintue to develop new WLAN technology as IEEE 802.11 standards evolve, with an eye towards 5 GHz 802.11a products expected to be available in 2002 for the home, enterprise and automotive sectors.
Matthew Peretz is Managing Editor of 802.11-Planet.com