~ Supports both Sigfox and IEEE802.15.4k, offering IoT devices a communication range 10 times greater than traditional SubGHz wireless ~
Summary:Lansi Semiconductor, part of the ROHM Group and a leading global semiconductor manufacturer, has developed the wireless communication LSI "ML7404," designed specifically for low-power wide-area networks (LPWA), a rapidly growing field in IoT wireless communication.
The ML7404 stands out as the industry's first LSI to support dual LPWA modes. In the unlicensed SubGHz band, it not only supports the widely adopted Sigfox technology, already operational in over 30 countries, but also introduces the IEEE802.15.4k protocol, known for its robust interference resistance and ability to accommodate more nodes within the network. This dual-mode capability makes it highly suitable for a variety of applications, including large-scale LPWA gateway systems.
This product began sampling in July 2017 and is expected to enter mass production in December 2017. The initial processing is handled by Lashibi Semiconductor Miyagi Co., Ltd. in Miyagi, Japan, while the final assembly takes place at ROHM Integrated Systems (Thailand) Co., Ltd. in Thailand.
To simplify the development of LPWA wireless devices and further promote the IoT ecosystem, Lanshishi’s partner companies will soon release communication modules featuring this product. Additionally, the IEEE802.15.4k protocol stack for this chip will be provided free via open-source by a third-party stack vendor.
Background:In recent years, LPWA technologies operating in the unlicensed SubGHz band have gained significant attention as key components of IoT wireless communication. However, the lack of a universal standard and the varying communication protocols across different regions have made it challenging to determine a dominant approach.
Previously, Lansi Semiconductor introduced wireless communication LSIs for specific low-power wireless base stations in the SubGHz band, contributing significantly to the global adoption of smart solutions. Now, the company is launching an LPWA wireless communication LSI that supports multiple methods, enabling faster and more efficient service deployment and application expansion.
1. Dual LPWA wireless communication methods: Support for Sigfox and IEEE802.15.4k
The ML7404 is the first dual-mode LPWA wireless communication LSI to support the international standard IEEE802.15.4k, alongside Sigfox, which has been operational in the Tokyo metropolitan area since spring 2017.
(1) Support for Sigfox, launched in spring 2017
The ML7404 supports Sigfox, a practical LPWA wireless system that has been operational in over 30 countries across Europe and Japan since spring 2017.
(2) Adherence to the IEEE802.15.4k protocol
It complies with the IEEE-specified 802.15.4k protocol, which features DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum) based on orthogonal spreading codes. Compared to other spread spectrum wireless communication methods, it offers superior resistance to same-system interference and can support a higher number of terminals in the network. Its high reliability in the unlicensed and versatile SubGHz band is well-recognized.
2. Industry-first hardware implementation of the BPSK modulation circuit for Sigfox enables lower power consumption
Sigfox utilizes BPSK modulation, which was previously not supported in SubGHz wireless communication. In the past, wireless communication LSIs supporting Sigfox did not include BPSK modulation. Thus, developers had to generate BPSK symbol data through the microcontroller's software. This approach required continuous microcontroller activity during wireless communication, leading to unnecessary power consumption. The ML7404 not only supports Sigfox but also hardware-implements the BPSK modulation circuit.
By doing so, the microcontroller no longer needs to handle the physical layer during wireless communication, resulting in a more energy-efficient system.
3. Comprehensive development support system
Lansi Semiconductor offers customers a complete support system. The evaluation kit includes sample programs (simple MAC) and various test scenarios. Modular reference designs are also available. Users can access a support page on the official website of Lansi Semiconductor to download manuals and tools.
Furthermore, communication modules equipped with this product and the low-power IEEE802.15.4k protocol stack will soon be available for purchase from Lansi Semiconductor partners.
Specifications:
*The reference values vary depending on communication conditions and environmental factors.
Sales Plan:- Product Name: ML7404
- Sample Sale Start: July 2017
- Sample Price (Reference): 1000 yen (tax excluded)
- Mass Production Sales Plan: December 2017
- Monthly Production Scale: 100,000 units
- Packaging: Tape & Reel 1000
Applications:Smart meters for gas and water, sensor networks, building health monitoring, intelligent agriculture, disaster prevention, and other long-distance wireless communication applications.
[Terminology Commentary]:Note 1: IEEE802.15.4k
A long-range wireless standard in the IEEE series of international standards. It achieves long-distance communication by improving receiving sensitivity through direct spread spectrum.
In the IEEE 802 series, physical layers such as wireless LAN, Bluetooth, ZigBee, and Wi-SUN have also been standardized.
Note 2: DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum)
A spread spectrum method where the baseband signal is spread and transmitted across a wider frequency band. Interference noise during communication is reduced by despreading at reception, providing excellent communication robustness (Robustness).
With its innovative dual-mode capabilities and advanced power-saving features, the ML7404 is set to revolutionize the LPWA market and pave the way for a smarter, more connected future.Dynamic Microphone,51.2mm Dynamic Microphone,professional Dynamic Microphone,Dynamic Microphone for wireless headset
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