The compact size of Intel’s new 3G modem makes it perfect for use with devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), the firm has claimed.
According to its maker, the XMM 6255 is the smallest standalone wireless modem in the world, and could be ideal for use in particularly small devices, as well as coffee machines and fridges.
With a penny-sized footprint of just 300mm2, the new release marks significant progress from the early days of 3G chips. In 2001 when the modems began shipping in Japan, most manufacturers struggled to fit them inside mobile handsets.
The XMM 6255’s board features a SMARTi UE2p transceiver, which has been designed specifically to operate on as little power as possible, venturebeat.com reports. While the IoT European Research Center predicts that by 2020, 250 devices will be connected to networks every second, experts have expressed concern about how these units will be powered.
Intel is expected to support both Wi-Fi and GPS links to the modem, meaning it’ll be particularly versatile. Will Strauss, president of industry research group Forward Concepts, praised Intel’s approach. He was quoted by eetimes.com as saying: “I think it’s good thinking, being able to look at the technology you have and being able to serve a market that is growing.
“I applaud Intel for thinking small by thinking
