Small form factor and low power expand IoT communication applications
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Dec 3, 2021 --- Shikino High-Tech Co., Ltd. and Socionext Inc. today announced the development and confirmed operation of a prototype communication module, the P-TMFSU-041. The module incorporates Socionext’s SC1320A, a communication IC compliant with IEEE1901-2020, the fourth generation of power line communication technology HD-PLC. The companies will continue to collaborate on the commercialization and volume production of the module, aiming for a full-scale spread of HD-PLC and expansion in the market.
The P-TMFUS-041 and the SC1320A will be exhibited at the HD-PLC Alliance booth at “Smart Building Expo”, held at Tokyo Big Sight from December 6.
The new standard IEEE1901-2020 has “1/2” and “1/4” modes that enable communication over longer distances compared to the conventional technology and is expected to be utilized for a wider range of applications.
Socionext has developed the SC1320A, the world's first IC that uses the fourth generation of HD-PLC (HD-PLC4), an IEEE 1901-2020 compliant semiconductor design IP core licensed from Panasonic Corporation. With its expertise in signal processing and circuit design, Socionext has achieved low power consumption (200mW), a single 3.3V power supply, and a compact package (7mm x 7mm) with added features of HD-PLC. Socionext plans to start volume production of the SC1320A in the third quarter of 2022.
Shikino High-Tech has been developing, manufacturing, and delivering PLC module products for IoT communications used in embedded devices.
Equipped with the SC1320A, the new P-TMFSU-041 communication module complies with the HD-PLC4 standard and achieves high-speed data communication using existing power lines. By using existing power lines, building of a wired network is made possible without installing new communication cables.
The P-TMFSU-041 is equipped with a multi-hop function allowing relay of multiple PLC modules to extend the communication distance, which enables the implementation of the technology for a wide range of scenarios requiring long-distance communication between factories, buildings, and construction sites. Communication using the product maintains a high level of security through a function that dynamically determines the transmission path status between modules with added data encryption. The module is compact and can accommodate multiple wire shapes, making it easy to integrate into high-speed communication devices using existing power lines. Shikino High-Tech will continue to evaluate and develop the module, aiming to commercialize it in 2022.
As members of the HD-PLC Alliance, Socionext and Shikino High-Tech, providers of stand-alone ICs and communication modules, will continue to work closely together and propose a variety of applications that utilize HD-PLC, thereby contributing to widening the adoption of this technology and market expansion.
Shikino High-Tech communication module P-TMFSU-041 information:
https://www.shikino.co.jp/eng/products/P-TMFSU-041_specifications_E.pdf
Socionext HD-PLC IC SC1320A information:
https://socionextus.com/products/hd-plc-lsi
About HD-PLC IP core (Panasonic Corporation):
https://www.panasonic.com/global/business/hd-plc/en.html
Application Example: Smart Building
Shikino High-Tech’s main business is the development and manufacture of test equipment (Burn-In System) that applies loads such as temperature to automotive semiconductors, dedicated measuring equipment for industry, camera modules for electrical equipment, and the contract design of analog/digital LSI circuits. In a boost of the IoT, the company realizes high-grade “One Stop Solution” from development to in-house manufacturing based on various ideas and high technology. Founded in 1975, Shikino High-Tech Co., Ltd. is headquartered in Uozu Toyama, and has the factory in HQ, offices in Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka to develop its products and lead sales activities. For more information, visit https: www.shikino.co.jp/eng/
About Socionext Inc.
Socionext is a global, innovative enterprise that designs, develops and delivers System-on-Chip based solutions to customers worldwide. The company is focused on technologies that drive today’s leading-edge applications in consumer, automotive and industrial markets. Socionext combines world-class expertise, experience, and an extensive IP portfolio to provide exceptional solutions and ensure a better quality of experience for customers. Founded in 2015, Socionext Inc. is headquartered in Yokohama, and has offices in Japan, Asia, United States and Europe to lead its product development and sales activities. For more information, visit www.socionext.com.
About Socionext America Inc.
Socionext America Inc. (SNA) is the US branch of Socionext Inc. headquartered in Santa Clara, California. The company is one of the world’s leading fabless ASIC suppliers, specializing in a wide range of standard and customizable SoC solutions for automotive, consumer, and industrial markets. Socionext provides customers with quality semiconductor products based on extensive and differentiated IPs, proven design methodologies, and state-of-the-art implementation expertise, with full support.
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