G2 Microsystems promises Internet for anything

Adding networking or Internet connectivity to an existing embedded device can be quite costly and time consuming if it requires a board redesign or specialized software. The extra size and power requirements may also be a problem for battery-powered or microcontroller-based devices. G2 Microsystems promises to simplify the wireless networking integration process with a new low-cost, low-power Wi-Fi networking module. The new G2M5477 module provides a complete networking communications hardware and software package and features a built-in antenna, a 32-bit CPU, network stack, power management system, real-time clock, and a sensor interface. The module is pre-certified for FCC regulations, and works with or without and external processor. With unique “sleep” and “active” modes, the G2M5477 reduces power consumption enough to extend battery life for years. Its “instant-on” feature also ensures the module wakes up and authenticates to the network in less than 35 milliseconds, delivering no noticeable user delay. The module preloaded with networking software is available today in sample quantities and will sell for $22 in quantities of 10,000. Volume production is planned for February 2009. A G2M5477 evaluation kit is also available for designers to prototype Wi-Fi applications.