Abstract
This report analyzes short-range communications technologies for WPAN and
WLAN; particular, the following markets and related technologies were
addressed:
- Bluetooth (BT)
- ZigBee
- UWB
- IEEE802.11n
- Near Field Communications.
The report analyzes technologies features, standards and applications with
emphasis on the importance of developing NFC-able devices.
The report also stresses the following trends:
- Progress in the development of multi-protocols SoCs with integration on
single IC elements that support several technologies
- As a result, multi-modal communications using, for example, a single
handset become visible (for example, when a user environment is changed from
WPAN to WLAN).
- NFC is finding various applications where it has a significant role as an
independent technology; or it is used for initiation of communications
channels in other technologies environments (physical browsing is a new
intuitive human-computer interfacing paradigm for mobile users. Services,
such as information retrieval and distribution, peer- to- peer communication,
payment or ticketing, and professional applications can be initiated by simply
touching an object with a user' s personal device (or even bringing two devices
close to each other without touching)
It is expected that one of the most important NFC application will be an
integration of NFC technology into cell phones to transfer them into devices
that may eventually replace credit cards. The concept of a “wireless
wallet” is discussed in details, as well as a concept of m-payments with
its advantages and issues.
The report contains a detailed survey of WPAN/WLAN equipment vendors; and
estimates of the markets developing for the 2009-2013 time frame.
Methodology
Considerable research was done using the Internet. Information from various
Web sites was studied and analyzed; evaluation of publicly available marketing
and technical publications was conducted. Telephone conversations and
interviews were held with industry analysts, technical experts and executives.
The overriding objective throughout the work has been to provide valid and
relevant information. This has led to a continual review and update of the
information content.
Intended Audience
This report is useful for technical and marketing staff involved in the
developing of short-reach communications markets and applications. It
addresses NFC and short-reach communications technologies applications and
marketing features.
For systems vendors, integrators and others, the report provides an analysis
and assessment of competing products currently available as well as an
estimation of the overall opportunities in the coming years. The end users can
gain a more thorough understanding of products' market and capabilities as
well as the economics of using combinations of NFC with other technologies to
improve operational efficiency.
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