Content area
Full Text
Looking to simplify ADSL-modem access connections, Conexant Systems Inc. has introduced a version of its AccessRunner family of chipsets that provides universal serial bus (USB) support.
The aim is to enable a generation of modems that plug directly into a PC's USB port, eliminating the need to open the host system to install adapter cards such as Ethernet cards, which are generally required with non-USB ADSL modems, said Jay Gottlieb, product manager at Conexant, Newport Beach, Calif.
"We clearly believe that USB is growing and replacing the traditional Ethernet-terminated boxes," he said. "For ease of use, USB is certainly a more powerful and easier method of connecting peripherals."
Conexant's USB-ADSL modem chipset has already received commitments from several customers, including Accton Technology, BeWAN Systems, Digicom Systems, Mac System, Olitec, and Wong's Technology. The modem contains the same ADSL data pump, analog front end, and line driver found in the company's existing ADSL chipsets, but replaces the PCI interface with a USB interface.
"USB is an external box, so to connect...