Unlike WLAN SDIO cards that are intended for use in PDAs, the SX-SDWAG is specifically aimed at OEM applications. It includes diversity antenna connectors for improved radio reception and flexibility in antenna selection, and it supports an extended temperature range of -40 to +70 degrees C. The SX-SDWAG's 802.11a 5GHz capabilities allow it to be used in enterprise environments such as hospitals, where interference from 2.4GHz devices like microwave ovens must be minimized. Silex also offers driver porting and consulting services for Linux, Windows CE, and other operating systems, as well as custom hardware design capabilities.

Measuring just 0.94 x 1.68 x 0.08 inches (24 x 42.7 x 2.1mm), the SX-SDWAG is slightly longer than a standard SD memory card. Because it has a standard SDIO form factor, OEMs can use off-the-shelf SDIO mounting hardware and test equipment to expedite the development process.

"Because of its low power consumption and small size, the SX-SDWAG moves Silex into a leadership position as a provider of wireless networking solutions for handheld mobile devices," said Keith Sugawara, General Manager of Silex Technology America. "The SX-SDWAG complements our recently-announced SX-560 intelligent module by providing a lower-cost solution for OEMs that have already implemented TCP/IP networking and security protocol stacks into their devices."

The SX-560 is available immediately through Silex distribution channels for $69.95 suggested resale price for small quantities.  

Keywords: custom hardware design, wireless networking solutions, sd memory card, diversity antenna, protocol stacks, microwave ovens, antenna selection, weights and measures, silex technology america, sdio cards, enterprise environments, sdio card, 802.11a 5GHz