25 May 2016

Skyworks' front-end modules powering Iotera's GPS-enabled tracking devices

Skyworks Solutions Inc of Woburn, MA, USA (which manufactures analog and mixed-signal semiconductors) says that its front-end modules are being used by Iotera Inc of Redwood City, CA, USA, which provides wireless technologies for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, across its family of IOTA GPS-enabled tracking products. Initially deployed for tracking pets, the devices are now being utilized to protect vehicles, bicycles and other personal items.

Tracking is becoming an increasingly important opportunity as the Internet of Things explosion proliferates and encompasses a wide range of new and previously unimagined applications ranging from smart meters and connected vehicles, to security systems and industrial uses. Skyworks says that its connectivity solutions extend the range and maximize battery life in these types of devices.

"Skyworks is intensely focused on enabling a broad range of applications spanning the Internet of Things," says John O'Neill, VP of broad markets. "This partnership is yet another example of how Skyworks is leveraging its broad product portfolio and systems expertise to create a first-mover advantage for new applications," he adds.

"Skyworks has been a vital partner as we developed our proprietary platform," notes Iotera's CEO Ben Wild. "Their solutions have enabled us to build the world's smallest, real-time GPS tracking devices with industry-leading battery life."

Iotera's IOTA GPS-enabled trackers use Skyworks' SE2435L, a highly integrated RF front-end module designed for high-power industrial, scientific & medical (ISM)-band applications. Other applications include smart meters, in-home appliances and smart thermostats. The device includes an integrated power amplifier, a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and antenna switching with transmit/receive diversity function.

Long-range device tracking without the need for monthly fees is quickly growing in popularity as people become aware of these products and services. According to an April Global Market Insights report, the consumer global pet-wearable market alone is expected to exceed $2bn by 2023, driven largely by the rising demand for remote monitoring and tracking of pets. More broadly, IDC is expecting global wearable device shipments to grow by 128% from 76.1 million units in 2015 to 173.4 million by 2019. In the industrial segment, General Electric estimates connected industrial machinery will add $10-15 trillion to the global GDP within the next 20 years.

Skyworks is highlighting its broad product portfolio in booth 1611 at the IEEE International Microwave Symposium (IMS 2016) in San Francisco (24-26 May).

Tags: Skyworks

Visit: www.ims2016.org

Visit: www.iotera.com

Visit: www.skyworksinc.com/Product/938/SE2435L