NXP delivers first chip for Car-to-X communications
1 min read
In what has been described as an important step towards a complete Car-to-X communications infrastructure, NXP has announced that the first product from its RoadLINK range is now available for automotive customer design-in.
Scheduled for mass production in the second half of 2014, the fully programmable SAF5100 is designed to improve reception in wireless communications.
Available in a tiny 12 x 12mm LFBGA package, it supports a number of wireless standards, as well as different oem antenna configurations, via Cohda Wireless' 802.11p firmware.
"By making the SAF5100 available for evaluation by major car manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers, we are now one step closer in realising the vision of enabling a complete C2X infrastructure – with the goal of bringing the first C2C and C2I solutions to vehicles from 2015/2016 onwards," said Torsten Lehmann, senior vice president and general manager, car entertainment solutions, NXP.
In another step along the road towards the driverless car, Ford announced last week that it is working to develop a 'crash proof' vehicle.
The company's system is designed to take control if the driver doesn't react to the situation unfolding in front of them.
While impressive, the technology raises some interesting questions - not the least of which is actually defining what 'crash proof' means.
Will the driverless car ever become a reality? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
