Following its last year’s intention to expand the family of non-core-logic-related products, Silicon Integrated Systems (SiS) announced today the first chip in a new line of wireless LAN (WLAN) solutions. The SiS160 is a cost-effective media access controller (MAC) that conforms to the IEEE 802.11b WLAN standard and supports data transfer rates of 1, 2, 5.5 and 11Mbits/s.

The SiS160 is manufactured using 0.18 micron CMOS process and is available in a 128-pin LQFP (low-profile quad flat pack) package. Apart from the inherent power saving aspects of the LQFP package and the chip’s design, a choice of power-saving modes is provided and this enables battery-powered systems to support extended periods of operation. With a host interface offering PCI, MiniPCI and Cardbus support, the SiS160 is easily integrated into both built-in and add-on WLAN solutions for both desktop and notebook computers.

In addition to support for both 64-bit and 128-bit data encryption using the WEP (wired equivalent privacy) algorithm, which is part of the original IEEE 802.11 standard, the SiS160 driver will also offer support for the latest 802.1x security standards, including TKIP (temporal key integrity protocol) and WPA (Wi-Fi protected access). Although important for the protection of all wireless networks - whether in the home or workplace - enhanced security is essential for corporate networks as WLAN penetration increases. The SiS160 provides the hardware support and driver flexibility to meet these requirements head on and provide both individuals and corporations with a robust, secure WLAN solution. 

SiS worked closely throughout the development of the SiS160 with Agilent Technologies, to develop a testing platform for mass production that would ensure high yields while meeting the highest quality and reliability standards. With a successful pilot run in December and several key partners already at the design-in stage, volume shipments of the SiS160 are ready to start immediately.