Broadcom adds two wireless headset Bluetooth chips

Broadcom today announced two new single-chip solutions aimed at wireless headset applications that support Bluetooth Version 2.0 with EDR. The duo support Broadcom's SmartAudio sound enhancement technology and are upgradeable to Bluetooth Version 2.1.

The BCM2047 is targeted at premium headset products and includes an integrated ARM AudioDE based digital signal processor for premium sound quality. The DSP can handle stereo SBC, MP3 and AAC compression algorithms.

The BCM2044 is intended for basic audio headsets that don't require extensive feature programmability. The ROM-based, single-chip device has the same low-power radio and audio architecture as the BCM2047 and also integrates a power management unit including "comprehensive" safety circuitry.

Tags: Bluetooth, Broadcom,

Atheros adds single-chip Bluetooth

Atheros Communications today announced its first Bluetooth product. The AR3011 is a Bluetooth 2.1 + Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) solution specifically targeted for PC applications and the first member of Atheros' ROCm (Radio-on-Chip for Mobile) family of Bluetooth solutions.

The AR3011 is a single-chip solution that supports WLAN co-existence and simultaneous usage of multiple Bluetooth-based devices. Atheros will offer the device in combination with the company's wireless LAN products to the PC OEM market to drive adoption of Bluetooth technology in laptops and desktops.

Tags: Atheros, Bluetooth,

Qualcomm to Acquire Airgo and Bluetooth Assets of RFMD

Qualcomm today announced that it will acquire for cash WLAN MIMO innovator Airgo Networks and the majority of RF Micro Devices' (RFMD's) Bluetooth assets. The announcement said the acquisitions are being made to "enhance Qualcomm's ability to deliver industry-leading, complete semiconductor solutions that will enable its device manufacturing partners to more quickly and easily offer a wide range of compelling wireless devices".

Tags: Airgo, Bluetooth, Qualcomm, WiFi,

How To: Building a BlueSniper Rifle - Part 2

It took longer than we expected, but the second and final part of Humphrey Cheung's BlueSniper Rifle How To is here. Boot up your Linux machine and get ready to make some firmware!

Tags: BlueSniper, Bluetooth, How To,

How To: Building a BlueSniper Rifle - Part 1

There are those who think Bluetooth is secure due to its intentionally-limited range. But Part 1 of this article by Humphrey Cheung shows you how a little time and not a lot of money can produce a weapon that can blow away any such thoughts.

Tags: BlueSniper, Bluetooth, How To,

Belkin Bluetooth Access Point Reviewed

Bluetooth fans have had to pay a lot for the privilege of getting their clients connected into their wired LANs. But not any more! Belkin's Bluetooth Access Point is priced within the reach of the average home networker, and includes a two-port USB print server to boot. But will it earn a place in your pile of networking boxes? Read our review and find out!

Tags: Access Point, Belkin, Bluetooth, F8T030,