Motorola Stuffs WiMax, Wi-Fi Into One Device

Motorola has brought together two wireless technologies—WiMax and Wi-Fi—into a single device, designed for wireless providers offering an alternative to cable or telco voice and data services.

The wi4 WiMax CPEi 775 is an all-in-one access device that combines a high-speed WiMax 802.16e modem with an integrated Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g router, along with an Ethernet port and two jacks for voice-over-IP calling.

The unit would establish an Internet connection with a wireless provider via WiMax and distribute a Wi-Fi signal for PCs and other devices inside the customer premises.

The CPEi 775, according to Motorola, does not need to be rotated for optimal signal strength which allows plug-and-play installation. The device also features over-the-air software upgrade capabilities, and is available in an array of colors.

The Motorola wi4 WiMax CPEi 775 is targeted at non-U.S. markets, available in the 3.5 GHz band with support for the 5MHz, 7MHz, and 10 MHz bandwidths. The announcement is timed for this week’s CES trade show in Las Vegas.

Also at CES this week, the company expects to show off two products aimed at IPTV providers.

The first is an update to the Motorola Communications Convergence Engine (CCE) that provides a feature called “Storefront,” designed to allow providers to create personalized catalogues of content via TV, Web and mobile devices.

Motorola also is introducing a rechargeable remote control for its VIP IPTV set-tops with a “find” feature that triggers an audible tone and flashing light on all remote controls to help lead consumers to a missing unit.