MEMS Varicaps Could Alleviate RF Bottlenecks in W-EDGE Handsets




Boston, MA -/March 2, 2006 - Wi-Fi Technology News/- In a recent evaluation of RF MEMs technology, the Strategic Technologies Practice at Strategy Analytics has recognized WiSpry's MEMs varicap (variable capacitor) as a practical device that could reduce handset bills of material. This technology evaluation is found in the Strategy Analytics' Insight report, "WiSpry Claims First Practical RF MEMS for Cellphones."

WiSpry's first product, a varicap duplexer, scheduled for production release in Q1 2006, is a two-state, tunable notch filter suitable for CDMA and W-CDMA handsets. WiSpry plans to release other products based on its technology, including RF MEMs switches and Power Amplifier (PA) modules.

"While it is difficult to predict WiSpry's ultimate success in the cellular handset market, this company appears to have developed a practical MEMS (micro electromechanical systems) device with compelling benefits," according to Chris Taylor, Director of the Strategy Analytics RF and Wireless Components (RFWC) Service. "If it performs as claimed, WiSpry's varicap would reduce the number of passive components needed in handsets and enhance the performance of antenna switch modules (ASMs), PAs, and transceiver modules."

"On the other hand, offering complete PA modules seems unwise given the competitive nature of the market, and the dominance of large, established, GaAs and LDMOS vendors such as RF Micro Devices, Skyworks and Renesas Technology," observed Asif Anwar, Director of the Strategy Analytics GaAs service. "Such a move would put WiSpry in direct competition with its customers."

About Strategy Analytics
Strategy Analytics, Inc. - a global research and consulting firm - provides timely insights and strategic business solutions to companies operating at the convergence of information, communications and entertainment technologies. With worldwide headquarters in Boston, MA. and principal offices in England, France and Germany, Strategy Analytics focuses on market opportunities and challenges in the areas of Automotive Electronics & Multimedia, Digital Consumer, Wireless Strategies and Enabling Technologies. For more information, see http://www.strategyanalytics.com