NXP Introduces ULC+ Concept

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NXP's single-chip solution drives next wave of ultra low-cost handsets with fully integrated multimedia functionality.

Underscoring its commitment to developing wireless technology in emerging markets, NXP Semiconductors (NXP) announced its Nexperia PNX4903 GSM/GPRS-optimized multimedia solution for the Ultra Low-Cost (ULC) segment of the mobile handset market. Delivering complete system-level operation in a single monolithic IC, the PNX4903 provides the highest levels of integration and performance and is the most cost-effective solution available for multimedia-enabled ULC handsets. Representing the ULC+ concept, NXP's solution raises the bar and allows handset OEMs/ODMs to deliver new levels of rich, multimedia content to entry-level cell phone users in a reliable, cost- and power-efficient package.

The Nexperia PNX4903 addresses competitive ULC market demands for the combination of RF performance, power consumption metrics, features and total cost. Superior RF performance allows significant flexibility in network planning, particularly in emerging markets where network coverage ten

ds to be sparse in rural areas. In over-subscribed urban areas, phones that have sub-par RF performance can create interference on neighboring channels, thereby impacting overall cellular network efficiency. Superior power consumption performance facilitates consistent phone operation as the battery discharges while allowing for industry-leading standby and talk times. The smaller batteries that can be utilized also allow for thinner and lighter handset designs.

In addition, the ULC+ multimedia solution enables a music phone with color screen, MP3 playback, removable flash memory card and FM Tuner for a total bill of materials under USD$20. While traditional multi-chip handset designs require three times the number of external components on a more complex printed circuit board, the PNX4903 allows a complete, dual-band GSM/GPRS modem to be realized with just 49 external components on a low-cost, four-layer printed circuit board (PCB). The only external ICs needed are a power am

plifier and memory. By integrating the analog and digital basebands, RF transceiver, power management, and audio circuitry in a monolithic IC, the PNX4903 solution delivers the lowest bill of materials and PCB footprint, along with the lowest manufacturing and test costs of any solution currently available.

"As wireless connectivity continues to proliferate across the entire globe, the definition of an 'Ultra Low-Cost' handset is rapidly evolving along with the expectations of consumers. Entry-level users in places like China, India and Latin America now desire the same value-added applications available in today's more mature wireless markets," said Diwakar Vishakhadatta, Vice President, Entry-level Products, Business Line Cellular Systems, NXP Semiconductors. "In light of this evolution, NXP has introduced the Nexperia PNX4903 ULC+ solution to raise the bar for ULC handsets and bring new features like high-quality music playback to users while still meeting the same level of

affordability and performance necessary in emerging markets."

"During the next phase of rapid expansion of mobile communications in the rural and semi-urban areas of India, NXP would like to fulfill the aspirations of first-time handset users by offering the next experience in multimedia at a ULC price point," said Ashok Chandak, Director of Global Sales, NXP Semiconductors India. "Building on the successful deployment of ULC phones based on NXP's current generation chipsets in India, handset manufacturers and operators can now deliver differentiating and value-added features using the Nexperia PNX4903 ULC+ multimedia solution. Furthermore, we are proud that the NXP India team played a part in the development of the PNX4903 subsystem and were able to offer their insight regarding the specific needs of the Indian market."

The PNX4903, built on the AeroFONE single-chip heritage from Silicon Labs' cellular communications business, is developed using a low power, high-perf

ormance CMOS process and incorporates an industry-leading ARM926-EJS MCU core and high-performance DSP core. The comprehensive solution fully integrates analog and digital baseband, RF transceiver, power management unit (PMU) subsystem, battery-charging circuitry, audio subsystem and all voltage regulators (LDOs and DC/DC) in a single chip. The PNX4903 hardware reference design is accompanied by a flexible, pre-integrated and validated software complement that reduces R&D expenses and speeds time to market.

Availability
The Nexperia PNX4903 ULC+ multimedia solution is now available globally with dedicated support for the Asian, Latin American and African markets.