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Introduction | Working Group |
Vision | Technical
Specification | Software Architecture |
Security | Implementations | Rival
Technologies | Future
HomeRF Overview and Market Positioning
The HomeRF Shared Wireless Access Protocol (SWAP) is
designed to carry voice and data within the home. A new class of mobile
consumer devices using PC’s and the Internet has been made possible with
the advent of HomeRF. In telecommunications, cable modems and xDSL are
often referred to as being the last mile. In that context, HomeRF could be
referred to as the last 50 metres. HomeRF has received the backing of many
corporate stakeholders for networking within the home. HomeRF makes use of
the existing PC industry infrastructure, as well as the Internet, TCP-IP
and Ethernet. A standard is also available in HomeRF, which offers a way
to connect to the PSTN for voice telephony. HomeRF, SWAP compliant systems
are already available. Future specifications of SWAP are currently being
researched and developed. It is envisaged that these future specifications
will offer increased security and higher data rates.
1 Introduction
Two factors have emerged to give
data networking within the home, a real opportunity to succeed.
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The explosive growth and usage of the Internet is a
primary factor. The Internet offers us an opportunity to revolutionise
the delivery of information and entertainment into the home.
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The widespread emergence of cheaper home PCs is
also a huge factor in increased Internet and PC usage. The presence of
sub $1000 PCs allows all middle income households obtain a PC if they
so wish.
It has already become
noticeable to consumers that some key attributes are lacking in the
PC/Internet combination. Unlike radios, CD players, newspapers and
magazines, home PCs, printers and general computer peripherals can only be
reached within a 3-foot diameter. This shortcoming offers a huge
opportunity for home networking, thereby extending the reach of the PC.
Integrating the Internet, PC and printer with telephony, audio and home
control systems would also be hugely beneficial for homes in the future.
Activating other home electronic systems by voice as well as the sharing
of a high quality printer in multi PC homes are also emerging as important
needs. A list of home networking needs and the bandwidth that each
requires now and in the future is illustrated in figure 1.
With these issues in mind, a number
of large home PC stakeholders formed the HomeRF Working Group. This
combination of stakeholders created the Shared Wireless Access
Protocol (SWAP). SWAP uses major sections of
proven protocols, simplifying them where appropriate for home usage.
Figure 1: Home Networking needs
Introduction | Working Group |
Vision | Technical
Specification | Software Architecture |
Security | Implementations | Rival
Technologies | Future
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