What is HomeRF ?
HomeRF supports up to four bandwidth-protected voice lines, simultaneous with data networking. This makes it attractive to set-top box and gateway developers and to service providers with broadband networks that want to offer more phone lines in homes wired for just two. Recent developments hint at this broader HomeRF vision, where wireless networks extend the resources of PCs, Internet gateways and wired networks. In one example, Cayman Systems has developed a solution with Proxim that lets broadband service providers, e.g. RBOCs, ILECs, CLECs, ISPs, etc. offer shared ADSL services and wireless LAN functions in a low-cost modem / gateway configuration. In another example, Motorola is adding SWAP-based wireless networking to its cable modem technology for PC and TV set-top devices. On to the wireless world: In the face of the wild success of 802.11b, the HomeRF Working Group has recently changed its tune to one of cooperation, not competition – at least on the data side. To achieve hig
Founded in 1997 by 5 major PC industry companies, the Home Radio Frequency Working Group developed a single technical specification for a broad range of interoperable consumer devices. Their market vision and technical strength helped bring the multi-user voice, data and streaming media capabilities of the Broadband Internet to low-cost home wireless networking. Initially called SWAP (Shared Wireless Access Protocol) and later just HomeRF, this open specification allows PCs, peripherals, cordless phones and other consumer devices to share and communicate voice and data in and around the home without the complication and expense of running new wires. HomeRF combines several wireless technologies in the 2.4 GHz ISM band, including IEEE 802.11FH (the frequency-hopping version of wireless data networking) and DECT (the most prevalent digital cordless telephony standard in the world) to meet the unique home networking requirements for security, QoS, and interference immunity — issues that
HomeRFlike Bluetooth is a specification for connectivity and mobility in a home-like environment. HomeRF Working Group has developed a specification for wireless communications in the home called the Shared Wireless Access Protocol (SWAP). This specification is not free and comes at a cost of $500 . you can find more information at www.homerf.org website.
The HRFWG has defined an open specification supported by more than 100 member companies to deliver a broad spectrum of affordable, interoperable consumer devices capable of both high-quality voice and high-speed data networking. The HRFWG’s SWAP (Shared Wireless Access Protocol) specification is the only wireless home networking solution that specifically addresses high quality voice communications in addition to data networking. Applications include cordless voice telephony, in-home distribution and sharing of Internet and broadband services, as well as file and print sharing. Products that can be networked include cordless phones, personal computers, laptop PCs, broadband modems and gateways, “Web pads” for Internet access, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). HomeRF also enables more efficient utilization of network resources, as bandwidth may be accessed and shared among many types of voice and data devices. Leading companies including Cayman Systems, Compaq, IBM, MobileStar Net
