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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