Ethernet Module eliminates CAT5 cables.

Press Release Summary:



Measuring 90 x 96 mm, PPM-Wireless PC/104-Plus module enables both 802.11b and rapid 802.11g wireless networking capabilities. It provides high-speed, industrial data network based upon MiniPCI wireless modules and Ethernet utilizing TCP/IP protocol stack. Unit is provided with empty MiniPCI socket or Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG Mini-PCI card installed, allowing transfer of data at up to 54 Mbps. Typical indoor range is 100 ft at 54 Mbps or 300 ft at 1 Mbps.



Original Press Release:


WinSystems' PC/104-Plus 802.11b/g Wireless Ethernet Module Cuts the Cable


December 17, 2004 Arlington, Texas - WinSystems introduces the PPM-Wireless, a PC/104-Plus module, enabling both 802.11b and rapid 802.11g wireless networking capabilities. The technology provides a high-speed, industrial data network based upon MiniPCI wireless modules and the Ethernet utilizing a TCP/IP protocol stack. This means that standard CAT5 Ethernet cable is replaced by a radio channel which simplifies cabling installation and configuration issues. Lack of cabling makes moves, adds, and changes easy for installed networks. Also, the portable nature of wireless networks lets engineers pre-configure and troubleshoot entire networks before installing them at remote locations. Once configured, a system can be moved from place to place with little or no modification.

The PPM-Wireless is a PC/104-Plus compliant module that measures 90mm x 96mm. On board are the interface electronics and a MiniPCI connector. A MiniPCI card is a small version of a standard desktop PCI card with the same features and functionality of a normal PCI card but at about one quarter the size. The PPM-Wireless is shipped with an empty MiniPCI socket so that a user can install their own cards from Intel, Broadcom, Foxconn (Atheros), and others or with an Intel. PRO/Wireless 2200BG Mini-PCI card installed by WinSystems.

The Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG card is a standards-based and Wi-Fi Certified wireless local area network (WLAN) solution that allows up to 54 million bits of data to be transferred per second. It is designed to maintain high throughput at longer ranges depending upon which antenna is used. The Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG network connection fully supports today's security standards such as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and can be upgraded via software downloads for future security standards such as 802.11i when it becomes available.

The PPM-Wireless has a SMA external connector to enable the selection of an antenna having characteristics best suited for the application. The most common antenna types for wireless LANs are omni-directional, but directional radiation patterns are sometimes needed. An optional second connector can support diversity antenna configurations for improved performance. Typical indoor range is 100 ft (30m) @ 54Mbps or 300ft (91m) @ 1 Mbps, but it is dependent upon which MiniPCI module is used and the systems' antenna type and placement.

The PPM-Wireless provides a high-performance, 32-bit PCI interface using the PC/104-Plus bus. A PC/104 pass-through connector allows placement flexibility in a mixed PC/104 and PC/104-Plus stack. An on-board 3.3V regulator allows the board to require only +5Volts.

Delivery is from stock to three weeks with prices starting at $149. For sales information, please list; WinSystems' Application Engineering Group at 715 Stadium Drive, Arlington, Texas 76011, (817) 274-7553, e-mail info@winsystems.com and Website www.winsystems.com.

WinSystems' designs and manufacturers PC/104, EPIC, EBX, and STD Bus boards for use by OEMs worldwide. We have served the industrial market for over 22 years.

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