802blue - setting a new standard for computing mobility
2 July 2003
News
The prevalence of Wi-Fi (802.11b) high-speed networking has led to more companies requiring solutions that eliminate the need for cables completely. In turn, this has created a demand for the short-range networking functionality delivered by technologies such as Bluetooth.
Up to a few months ago, integrating different wireless technologies was described as a wireless design 'no-no'. However, all this has changed with the introduction of 802blue.
According to Graham Vorster, chief technology officer at South African network distributor Duxbury Networking, 802blue combines two of the fastest growing wireless technologies, enabling a new level of computing mobility.
"Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies are increasingly being integrated into devices, and now users want both at the same time."
A recent report by In-Stat/MDR states that notebook PCs featuring Bluetooth will exceed eight million this year, and those with Wi-Fi, three million - totalling 11 million.
"With 802blue, OEMs can leverage off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi's individual strengths, integrating the technologies into notebook PCs, PDAs and other access points."
So how does 802blue integrate Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?
Vorster explains that the technology eliminates interference in the 2,4 GHz band while maintaining connectivity and system throughput, range, and responsiveness.
"This enables PC-based Bluetooth applications such as mouse, keyboard, printing, file transfer and portable device synchronisation to run at the same time that the user's PC is connected to a server via Wi-Fi."
Notebook PCs are typically configured with two antennas for Wi-Fi. However, the 802blue antenna-switching matrix lets Wi-Fi choose its best antenna, based on diversity, and connects the other antenna to Bluetooth.
He says: "With the antenna-switching matrix, manufacturers do not have to redesign their notebook chassis. A single RF switch is added, which allows Bluetooth to share one of the two antennas embedded in Wi-Fi enabled notebooks.
"The biggest benefit of this is that manufacturers who already have Wi-Fi antennas can easily add Bluetooth capability."
Additionally, Bluetooth performance is enhanced as the shared Wi-Fi antennas are located in the optimal RF location.
802blue is also compatible with coexistence methods that are likely to be added to the two standards in the coming years such as adaptive frequency hopping (AFH).
For more information contact Graham Vorster, Duxbury Networking, 011 646 3323, [email protected]
Further reading:
RE+ South Africa 2026: From strategy to execution
News
Taking place at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 02 to 04 June 2026, this new addition to South Africa’s energy landscape introduces a focused commercial and industrial energy event within a proven exhibition platform.
Read more...
Africa Energy Indaba announces 2027 dates
News
Following the continued success and growing global impact of the Africa Energy Indaba, organisers have announced the dates for the 19th edition of the Africa Energy Indaba 2027.
Read more...
RS South Africa named master distributor for the Arduino UNO Q
RS South Africa
News
RS South Africa announced that it has been named Master Distributor for the Arduino UNO Q SBC platform across South Africa and the broader African region.
Read more...
Engineering in a world that cannot assume connectivity
Technews Publishing
Editor's Choice News
Across industrial automation, networking, and defence systems, engineers are rediscovering the importance of resilience and autonomy in an increasingly connected world.
Read more...
IOT secures major industry partnership
IOT Electronics
News
IOT Electronics has announced a new strategic partnership with Powell Electronics, becoming an Official Authorised Reseller in South Africa.
Read more...
Successful Proteus training conference
Dizzy Enterprises
News
Dizzy Enterprises recently hosted two hands-on Proteus Training Conferences, bringing together electronics professionals, designers, and enthusiasts to explore the latest capabilities of the Proteus Design Suite from Labcenter Electronics.
Read more...
Hitachi reinvents asset management solution
News
Hitachi Energy, in collaboration with Microsoft, is accelerating the digital transformation of essential infrastructure - from electricity networks and transportation corridors to heavy industrial operations - by reinventing how critical assets are managed and maintained.
Read more...
Mycronic releases mixed Q4 results
News
Mycronic reported mixed Q4 results for the year ended January to December 2025, while delivering record full year order intake and net sales.
Read more...
AGOA: Businesses should diversify or face significant exposure
News
Cross-border payments platform Verto has called on South African and African businesses to accelerate their transition toward a “post-AGOA” trade strategy following President Donald Trump’s signing of a one-year extension to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
Read more...
European components distribution growing
News
European electronic components distribution returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to newly released figures from DMASS Europe.
Read more...
printer friendly version