STMicroelectronics' Pegas.usB Modem Chipset Garners Microsoft Lab OK

STMicroelectronics, Inc.> has revealed that a reference design based on its innovative Pegas.usB V.90 USB World Modem Chipset is the first USB modem to receive the Microsoft Windows Hardware Quality Lab (WHQL) certification, assuring full compatibility with the Windows 2000 Professional and Windows 98 operating systems. PC makers designing this chipset into their products can thus display the `Designed for Microsoft Windows' logo on their products, packaging and documentation.

Widely recognized by computer buyers, the `Designed for Windows' logo confirms that the hardware complies with system design specifications and standards, ensuring compatibility with Windows software and other compliant hardware. Major PC manufacturers require WHQL certification for all the hardware they buy from third parties. As the originator of the first product in this category, ST cooperated with Microsoft in the process definition of USB modem certification.

The Pegas.usB chipset consists of the ST7554 USB World Modem Controller, ST75951 Modem Analog Front End and ST952 DAA Line Interface, which together perform all of the codec and interface functions of the modem. All other modem functions are performed by the PC's main processor.

To shorten the design cycle for modem manufacturers, ST offers complete reference designs, a ready-to-use software package and comprehensive application notes. Due to the small size of the circuit, a complete modem can be housed inside a connector sized `dongle' that is compact and inexpensive to manufacture. Modem power consumption is less than 50mA operational and 500uA in suspend mode, so it can be supplied from the USB port fully meeting the USB1.1 standard and eliminating the need for a separate power supply.

Modems based on the Pegas.usB chipset are ideal for users of laptop computers because they free a PC-card slot and need no external supply. In addition, they are useful for new generation legacy-free PCs with limited slots for expansion cards but equipped with USB ports. Taking full advantage of the Windows 2000/Windows98 USB plug and play capability, they need no hardware installation and are very simple to use, minimizing calls to customer support. Ideal for compact 'dongle' type packages, this solution is programmable to meet different national telecom standards, allowing modem manufacturers to use a single design for markets in many different countries and also to target users who travel frequently around the world. Further increasing its appeal to travelers, the Pegas.usB chipset includes protection against accidental connection to a digital phone line.

Edited by David Maliniak