Atheros and Wilocity are currently working on the next generation of PCIe devices that use Wifi to connect components. wPCIe allows components such as graphics cards to be connected via a 60GHz Wifi connection and the first applications using this new wPCIe technology could be available to sample as early as next year.
Revolutionizing Connectivity with wPCIe
The first devices under development will allow notebooks to wirelessly connect to displays, storage devices, and even separate graphics cards. This breakthrough technology aims to eliminate the need for cumbersome cables, providing a seamless and clutter-free computing experience. Together with the 60GHz band, 2.5GHz and 5GHz will also be available, allowing you to connect to existing Wifi networks. This multi-band approach ensures that devices can maintain high-speed connections while also being backward compatible with current Wifi standards.
wPCIe uses a PCI switch that allows a Wifi connection to the external devices as if they are co-located in a single location without the operating system even having to know there is any wifi involved. This transparency is crucial for maintaining the performance and reliability that users expect from wired connections. By leveraging the 60GHz band, wPCIe can achieve data transfer rates that are comparable to traditional wired PCIe connections, making it suitable for high-bandwidth applications such as gaming, video editing, and data-intensive scientific computations.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
When released, the new technology is expected to appear in high-end systems to start, so start saving your pennies now. The initial rollout will likely target enthusiasts and professionals who require the highest levels of performance and are willing to invest in cutting-edge technology. However, as the technology matures and economies of scale come into play, we can expect to see wPCIe becoming more accessible to mainstream consumers.
One of the most exciting potential applications of wPCIe is in the realm of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). These technologies require extremely high data transfer rates and low latency to provide a smooth and immersive experience. wPCIe could enable wireless VR and AR setups, freeing users from the constraints of wired connections and allowing for greater freedom of movement.
Another promising application is in the field of cloud computing and remote work. With wPCIe, users could connect to powerful remote servers and workstations as if they were local devices, enabling high-performance computing on lightweight, portable devices such as ultrabooks and tablets. This could revolutionize the way we work, allowing for greater flexibility and mobility without sacrificing performance.
Moreover, wPCIe could play a significant role in the development of smart homes and IoT (Internet of Things) ecosystems. By providing a high-speed, low-latency wireless connection, wPCIe could enable seamless communication between various smart devices, enhancing the overall user experience and enabling new functionalities.
Via Slashdot Via Tech Report
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