14 November 2008

Digi - 802.11a/b/g Secure Embedded Networking Core Module

Digi International has unveiled the ConnectCore Wi-9P 9215, a 802.11a/b/g embedded core module, featuring Digi’s ARM9 microprocessor, for secure wireless networking and integrated application processing.

Digi customers will now be able to network their devices in the 802.11b/g 2.4 GHz band or the 802.11a 5 GHz band for improved reliability and performance. This makes it ideal for busy environments or for transmitting sensitive information such as financial transactions or patient records, Digi explained.

The ConnectCore Wi-9P 9215 includes two Flexible Interface Modules (FIMs) built into Digi’s ARM9 microprocessor that allow users to utilise application-specific interfaces such as Secure Digital, Controller Area Network (CAN), 1-Wire, additional UARTs and others. It also features advanced networking protocols, including IPv6, SNMPv3 and SSL. This allows users to easily upgrade protocols over time without having to replace hardware. Additionally, it features Digi Dynamic Power Control, a switchable processor speed that enables users to change processor speed from an application or shut down selected features to reduce power use.

“The 5 GHz frequency range of the 802.11a Wi-Fi standard is relatively unused,” said Larry Kraft, senior vice president of global sales and marketing, Digi International. “This prevents signal interference from other devices like cordless phones and microwaves. The ConnectCore Wi-9P 9215 is the only embedded core module available that allows customers to easily network enable their devices in this band.”

The ConnectCore Wi-9P 9215 is pre-certified for 802.11a/b/g networking by the FCC in North America and other regulatory organizations in Europe and Japan. This certification may be applied to end-user devices designed with the module so customers don’t have to perform time consuming and costly wireless certifications. The ConnectCore Wi-9P 9215 also features state-of-the-art security including WEP, WPA, WPA2/ 802.11i and on-chip AES acceleration for encryption 10 times faster than software-only solutions.
The ConnectCore Wi-9P 9215 is pin-compatible and interchangeable with the wired ConnectCore 9P 9215. This allows embedded developers to support wired and wireless secure networking in one compatible footprint and with a single development effort.

Additionally, the ConnectCore Wi-9P 9215 is based on the Digi NET+ARM NS9215 microprocessor, incorporating an ARM926EJ-S up to 150 MHz. The NS9215 NET+ARM processor is targeted at applications requiring a cost-efficient 32-bit solution with high performance, strong network security and unique interface flexibility, the company said.