DALLAS -- A new technology from Texas Instruments (TI) Incorporated (NYSE: TXN) dramatically cuts the cost and complexity of bringing the high-speed data rates of optical networking to end users. Combining its leadership in digital signal processors (DSP) and analog with MicroElectro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), TI announced today the immediate availability of its Optical Wireless Solutions reference design that allows system developers to wirelessly deploy dedicated 100 Mbps 802.3 compliant Ethernet connections -- 100 times greater than currently available wireless systems. This development expands the multi-billion dollar market for companies building systems or delivering services that harness optical networking technology, enabling high-speed broadband access networks for homes and offices.

"TI's Optical Wireless Solutions will enable network managers to choose a wireless format as a direct alternative to Cat 5 wiring in 100 Mbps switched networks with no degradation in performance. With nearly one billion Ethernet ports on the planet, the opportunities for this reference design are real," said Jose Melendez, worldwide manager, Analog MEMS Networking Products, TI. "This solution expands TI's portfolio of high-speed broadband options and enhances our existing portfolio of optical networking technologies."

Texas Instruments Inc.