Qualcomm introduces the first next-generation hybrid networking and a new low-cost HomePlug AV2 SISO solution

Qualcomm Inc. announced that its subsidiary, Qualcomm Innovations, has introduced the industry's first hybrid wireless range extender and 802.11ac standard Wi-Fi technology using Qualcomm Atheros' HomePlug leading AV2 (HPAV2) Multiple input/Multiple Output (MIMO) powerline. The company also announced a new HomePlug AV2 Single input/Single Output (SISO) solution to enable reliability for mainstream broadband devices. Both powerline solutions are based on the HomePlug AV2 standard designed to provide reliable, high-speed connectivity in the home via existing wires.

"Qualcomm is a long-time supporter of the speed and reliability of HomePlug's hybrid networking portfolio with the flexibility and mobility of wireless networks." Gopi Sirineni, Senior Director, Product Management, Qualcomm Atheros, Inc., said the company "The products we announced today are important new options for our customers in terms of performance, integrated 802.11ac and price."

HomePlug's AV2 dual-band 802.11ac range extension

Range extenders are an increasingly popular way to extend Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the home, using the existing power system as a wired backbone. The REH152, Qualcomm Atheros' latest range extender reference design, combines the high-performance HomePlug AV2 chipset (QCA7500) to deliver two to three times higher performance than the popular HomePlug AV solution. While the system's 802.11ac chip (QCA9882 and QCA9563) creates a dual-band, dual-parallel (DBDC) wireless hotspot anywhere it has been plugged in. This wireless router away from home is especially useful in rooms, or as intensive building construction produces wireless dead spots or low spots. The REH152 is equipped with a gigabit Ethernet port to provide wired connectivity to nearby fixed devices and can be used as an energy-efficient repeater to increase coverage. REH152 is currently sampling and a development kit is now available.

"As a leading provider of carrier-grade home networking solutions, front-line service providers, ZINWELL understands the importance of fast, reliable, whole-home coverage," said Yasha, special Assistant to the Office of the Chairman, ZINWELL Inc. "ZINWELL can now address growing networking needs from addressing trends such as 4K IPTV, as well as a growing number of mobile device/home power line adapters and hybrid wireless extensions that leverage Qualcomm Atheros' 802.11ac and AV2 HomePlug technologies."

Low cost, high energy efficiency HomePlug AV2 SISO solution

Qualcomm is adding PL29 to its home power line solution to enable more consumers to experience broadband at power outlets in their homes. The PL29 based on the AR7420 is a highly price-sensitive, efficient, yet cost-effective HomePlug AV2 SISO solution designed for the mainstream market. The PL29 supports a maximum PHY rate of 600 Mbps for large real-world throughput 4K video streaming, online gaming and other demanding broadband applications. It complies with the home plug AV2 specification and works in SISO mode. The PL29 is currently being sampled and a development kit is now available.

"Our new REH152 combines 802.11ac with the HomePlug AV2 and MIMO's next-generation coverage to increase the speed of an unparalleled wired and wireless whole-home network," added Gopi Sirineni. "In addition, our new SISO solution provides speed for applications, such as video streaming, to handle growing video consumption on multiple devices."