Qualcomm Atheros Broadens HomePlug Portfolio with Introduction of New AV2 Chipset

AMSTERDAM, Oct. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. (QTI) today announced that its networking and connectivity subsidiary, Qualcomm Atheros, Inc., introduced the first in a family of HomePlug™ AV2 (HPAV2) compliant solutions at Broadband World Forum. The new QCA7450/AR1540 chipset will enable consumers to use their homes' existing power outlets to improve coverage and multimedia streaming performance, with ultra-high speed connectivity of more than 500 Mbps.

The new HPAV2 specification extends the performance of HomePlug AV by up to seven times and improves overall network efficiency through multiple innovations. The extension of HomePlug's operating frequency bandwidth from 30MHz to 85MHz and the introduction of multiple profiles (SISO and MIMO) create the opportunity to achieve data rates of more than one gigabit per second. When incorporated into devices such as broadband gateways, retail routers and hybrid range extenders, the QCA7450/AR1540 provides a robust networking foundation, helping to prepare the home network for carrier-class services. 

The QCA7450/AR1540 chipset reference design also features a SmartLink Plus option that enables transmission of powerline signals on multiple wires, potentially extending connectivity range in the home by up to 50 percent. This innovation improves performance over the previous generation of SmartLink-enabled products while reducing overall design complexity and the bill of materials.

"The release of the QCA7450/AR1540 chipset is the first step in introducing HPAV2 devices, enabling HomePlug solutions to deliver optimum performance for today's new and emerging applications, such as 3D video, interactive gaming and multi-screen HD viewing," said Dan Rabinovitsj, senior vice president and general manager, networking business unit, Qualcomm Atheros. "As the industry embraces HPAV2 technology, we can expect gigabit-capable HomePlug powerline solutions to be introduced by our partners and customers."

QCA7450/AR1540 hardware/software development kits are now sampling worldwide, with volume shipments of the chipset expected later this year. For more information, please visit the Qualcomm Atheros exhibit at Broadband World Forum, booth B7 at the Grand RAI Exhibition and Convention Centre, Amsterdam October 16-18, 2012.

About Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. (QTI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM), is redefining the way people incorporate wireless devices and services into everyday life. QTI and its subsidiaries operate substantially all of Qualcomm's research and development activities, and product and services businesses, including Qualcomm's semiconductor business, QCT. QTI's developments enable opportunities across the wireless and wired value chains by making devices and networks faster, content richer and communications more personal and affordable to people everywhere. For more information, go to www.qualcomm.com.

Qualcomm is a registered trademark of QUALCOMM Incorporated. Atheros is a registered trademark of Qualcomm Atheros, Inc. All other registered and unregistered trademarks are the property of QUALCOMM Incorporated, Qualcomm Atheros, Inc., or their respective owners and used with permission. Registered marks owned by QUALCOMM Incorporated and Qualcomm Atheros, Inc. are registered in the United States and may be registered in other countries.

Qualcomm Contacts:
Laurie Falconer, Qualcomm Atheros
Phone: 1-408-616-3036
Email: [email protected]

Tina Asmar, Corporate Communications
Phone: 1-858-845-5959
Email: [email protected]

Warren Kneeshaw, Investor Relations
Phone: 1-858-658-4813
Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.