Unplugging USB - Tentative specifications
(Page 4 of 4 )
WUSB will operate on a very wide band of frequencies. Doing this will allow WUSB to transmit more data in a given time than other wireless options. The FCC regulates the use of the radio spectrum. Some of the unlicensed frequencies have been littered with devices, creating havoc when multiple devices use the same range. Many devices operate on the radio frequency of 2.4 GHz, such as cordless phones, baby monitors, microwaves, and 802.11b networks.
WUSB will jump above this problem; it will use the frequencies of 3.1 GHz to 10.6 GHz, with a weaker signal strength than other devices. With the cap on broadcasting strength, the device will need to use less power than other wireless communications. No one will complain about more battery life.
The specifications of WUSB have not been set in stone yet. The Wireless USB Working Group is working on this now, and hopefully the blueprints will become the standard in late 2004, or early 2005, when the group meets to discuss this. Devices may start to trickle out in mid to late 2005. One of the key ideas in WUSB is to keep the same speed as the current USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) specifications while within 10 meters of the host.
Another key point in WUSB will be security. The goal is to keep the same security level as wired USB. Hacking a wired device is a little trickier than hacking a wireless device, which broadcasts information in every direction. The group hopes to do this with 128-bit encryption, used along with authentication and association. The host will check in with the device, exchanging some keys and codes with each other. If everything checks out, you will be able to share data; if the codes don’t match up, then you won’t be sharing even a bit of information with each other. The group would like to do this without causing a problem with performance, and without raising the price of WUSB.
While nothing is set in stone yet, the ideas for wireless USB connections look great on paper. Many computer users have multiple USB cables plugged into their computers, and would love to get rid of all those cords. Just the idea of not needing any wires to connect their peripherals to their computer will entice many people to jump on the bandwagon. WUSB will extend to many other consumer electronic devices, like the home theater system.
I for one can’t wait to this one function. No need for the HD, RCA and sound cables. No need to run sound wires through the attic and back down. While WUSB will provide a nice way to wirelessly connect devices, there are still many questions up in the air. With backing from companies like Agere Systems, HP, Intel, Microsoft, NEC, Philips Semiconductors, and Samsung Electronics, WUSB will hit the market with full force, and take us another step in the direction of a wireless home.
| DISCLAIMER: The content provided in this article is not warranted or guaranteed by Developer Shed, Inc. The content provided is intended for entertainment and/or educational purposes in order to introduce to the reader key ideas, concepts, and/or product reviews. As such it is incumbent upon the reader to employ real-world tactics for security and implementation of best practices. We are not liable for any negative consequences that may result from implementing any information covered in our articles or tutorials. If this is a hardware review, it is not recommended to open and/or modify your hardware. |
/ 7 
