Broadcom chip boosts range for 802.11g wireless networking

By Steve Malone

Posted on 23 Nov 2004 at 10:57

Chip developer Broadcom says that it has developed a new processor that can extend the range of a wireless connection by up to 50 per cent. The company says that the new single chip for 802.11g features improved signal processing to increase the sensitivity of the connection.

Currently a typical wireless hotspot has a range of between 75 and 100 feet. As the wireless device moves further away from the source of the signal, errors increase. As a result, devices are forced to drop their data rate. Broadcom says that its new chips allows devices to maintain the theoretical maximum transmission rate (54mbps) at greater distances.

Broadcom says that the BCM4318E has a sensitivity of more than 73dbM (Decibels referred to milliwatt). It combines a 2.4 GHz radio, 802.11a/g baseband processor, medium access controller (MAC) and other radio components onto a single silicon chip. In idle mode the chip uses as little as 9mW of power.