Date: 22/04/2009

Broadcom's combo chip and software are compliant with Bluetooth v3.0 specs

Bluetooth combo chip technology and associated BTE software from Broadcom are compliant with the ratified Bluetooth v3.0 + HS (high speed) specification. This new version of Bluetooth accelerate data speeds to 24 Megabits per second (Mbps), i.e. 10 times more than the previous Bluetooth v2.1 + EDR (enhanced data rate) standard.

Broadcom claims, competing implementations require multiple discrete components to implement v3.0 of Bluetooth, where as Broadcom is able to provide a single-chip solution that includes both a qualified Bluetooth v3.0 BR/EDR (basic rate) controller and Wi-Fi CERTIFIED media access controller (MAC)/physical layer (PHY) device.

"The new Bluetooth v3.0 + HS specification is a welcome step in the continuing evolution of Bluetooth technology, adding industry approved techniques for leveraging the high data rates of Wi-Fi with the ease of use, low-power and utility that Bluetooth wireless technology is recognized for," said Craig Ochikubo, Vice President & General Manager of Broadcom's Wireless Personal Area Networking line of business. "The new specification makes our combo chip products even more attractive to OEMs who seek to provide their customers with the most complete wireless user experience available."

The Bluetooth products now qualified as compliant with the v3.0 + HS specification include the Broadcom BCM4325 802.11b/g combo chip solution that combines Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and FM radio functionality on a single-chip design. Broadcom's BTE software, the core Bluetooth software stack on which all Broadcom Bluetooth software is based (including BTW, BTW Mobile and embedded software for cellular handsets and other devices) has also been qualified as compliant with the new v3.0 + HS standard. The BCM4325 is also Wi-Fi certified in a number of customer products.


"The Bluetooth Special Interest Group is gratified that Broadcom has played an active role in helping drive the evolution of Bluetooth technology through its contributions to the standard and timely implementation of these new features," said Michael Foley, Ph.D., executive director of the Bluetooth SIG. "With strength in multiple wireless technologies, the company is helping make the vision of high speed Bluetooth technology a reality."