Dual-mode Chipset Supports CDPD and AMPS

Extending the benefits of information technology to the field has become a hot growth area, as companies strive to maximize the billions of dollars collectively spent on computing and automation over the past decade. Increasingly, wireless voice and data communication is viewed as a critical piece of this puzzle.

Semiconductor manufacturers are doing their share to help. Case in point is Cupertino, California-based DSP Communications who recently announced a new chipset supporting both Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) and AMPS baseband, capable of providing combined voice and data communication.

As you’ll recall, AMPS is the system on which the North American analog cellular voice network is based. CDPD, on the other hand, is a new packet data protocol designed to employ much of the existing cellular infrastructure to provide efficient wireless data communication.

The new chipset, dubbed the D5101, is suitable for use in CDPD data modems, AMPS-based cellular phones with CDPD capability, or combined circuit-switched and CDPD modems. DSP Communications claims that supporting both protocols opens the possibility of creating cellular phones with wireless data capabilities at low incremental cost. For example, future AMPS-based cell phones could include a built-in short messaging capability, ideal for most run-of-the-mill quick communications.

The D5101 complies with CDPD specifications 1.0 and 1.1. DSP Communications is also offering support for the complete CDPD protocol stack, AMPS cell processing, and RF design through its CDPD Partnership Program.

DSP Communications
20300 Stevens Creek Blvd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
Shaul Bereger
(408) 777-2700
(408) 777-2770 (fax)