Motorola shows off X24 WiMAX concept module for cars

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Motorola M2M wireless modules aim to utilize mobile WiMAX connectivity for innovative automotive telemetry applications

Motorola today announced that it has begun a proof of concept trial for the X24, an innovative machine-to-machine (M2M) wireless module featuring mobile WiMAX connectivity (802.16e). The X24 module is designed with advanced automotive telemetry needs in mind, enabling in-car, low-cost broadband connectivity over a WiMAX network. The X24 is based on Motorola’s WTM1000 WiMAX chipset. The X24 will be on display at WiMAX World 2008, booth 601, and will be part of a live demo using real WiMAX infrastructure.



The X24 is developed with high-speed data capabilities combined with mobility allowing broadband connectivity to automobiles. Motorola’s WTM1000 chipset is a dual-band (2.5 GHz / 3.5 GHz) full WiMAX Wave 2 compliant solution targeted for mobile wireless broadband applications, allowing connectivity to the majority of WiMAX networks. Together with the WTM1000, the X24 counteracts interference by using MIMO A/B and other advanced features of the WTM1000 to increase throughput and coverage. The X24 incorporates full quality of service (QoS) capabilities in order to meet automotive real time applications demand.

This is a significant milestone in Motorola’s continued commitment to delivering end-to-end WiMAX solutions. The WTM1000 solution plays a large role in developing the WiMAX device ecosystem to embed WiMAX into a variety of applications.

“Motorola is dedicated to accelerating the proliferation of WiMAX, and this announcement affirms our commitment to chipset ecosystem development,” said Gary Koerper, vice president, Engine Platforms, Motorola. “Through our WTM1000 chipset, Motorola hopes to continue enabling the development of new mobile WiMAX devices and applications.”

By utilizing the WTM1000 chipset in the X24, Motorola is extending the overall capability of its WiMAX portfolio by developing WiMAX devices that support wireless M2M communication. By leveraging the advantages of mobile WiMAX connectivity, the X24 enables innovative automotive applications like infotainment systems and Internet-assisted navigation, which utilize in-car mobile broadband.

“The X24 module continues Motorola’s tradition of innovating in wireless communication by bringing WiMAX to the M2M world. Mobile WiMAX connectivity is positioned to enable cutting-edge automotive applications,” said Aharon Mirsky, vice president of Motorola Israel and director of the Wireless Modules business. “The X24 module helps enforce Motorola’s strong WiMAX commitment.”

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Motorola is already looking towards a WiMAX-filled future, where it hopes devices like its X24 concept module will let even your car tap into all that bandwidth floating through the air.

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the company also isn't ignoring the possibilities for in-car entertainment and other applications. It also sees the chipset at the heart of the X24, the WTM1000, being used in an even broader range of consumer devices, and not just ones made by Motorola.