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EDS' Next Big Thing Blog: Read and Respond to What the EDS Fellows Say About Technology

Read and respond to what the EDS Fellows have to say about the future of technology on EDS' Next Big Thing Blog on eds.com.

Wireless USB

by Randy Mears

This recent announcement from Alereon could be the beginning of big changes for device connectivity and could literally untangle your personal computing environment. This is because it will enable wireless USB vial ultrawideband (UWB). What's important is that Alereon's solution is able to meet worldwide regulatory requirements as well as USB-IF certification. It could be a real door-opener for high-speed wireless device communication, not just for USB but other device communication technologies as well; like future versions of Bluetooth. It's all part of the current WiMedia specification.

Alereon's announcement doesn't do a very good job of spelling out the implications of this technology, particularly for the consumer. I found this article, it does a nice job of summing things up.

What's surprising is that consumer versions of these new Alereon chipset based USB hubs are expected to reach the consumer market in a month or two. Granted, it won't be really spectacular until wireless USB devices and computers begin to appear on the market, but wireless USB hubs will make it useful for some of us in the short term. Isn't it interesting how quickly Wi-anything seems to hit the consumer market?

Published Thursday, June 21, 2007 5:10 PM

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Comments

Posted by Ken Lassiter Friday, June 22, 2007 2:48 PM

However do we still not have the same problem as all other wireless devices. A denial of service based on frequency matching using harmonics, with overpowering the signal. The interesting thing about all wireless is, it resides on “unlicensed” frequencies. The FCC does not care if it is used, and anyone with a license – say a ham radio operator, or other “approved” device can stomp your signal – legally with no recourse. I am a security professional and scares the daylights out of me to see the quick acceptance of more and more reliance on wireless unlicensed devices in all industries. I look forward to your thoughts

Posted by Randy Mears Monday, June 25, 2007 2:59 PM

Ken,

I think that what makes this different is that it is an ultrawideband application and as such should not suffer from many of the interference problems that traditional approaches have. From a security standpoint it does seem to represent yet another *** in our armor.

http://www.wikipedia.com/wiki/Ultrawideband

Posted by Carl Piazza Tuesday, June 26, 2007 6:01 PM

Fortunately, this could eliminate a drawer-full of proprietary USB cables! I assume manufacturers would at first include the USB cable so that the device can be used by those without the wireless USB hub. Eventually the cable would become an optional accessory, and at some point cables would become obsolete. With consumers and corporations replacing PCs every 3-5 years, it is possible this technology could become widespread within 5-7 years. We could also end up with some very innovative consumer peripherals and services.