Broadcom introduced a system-on-a-chip to address the need for higher bandwidth in 4G mobile backhaul. The new BCM85620 chip is the first SoC to combine a baseband modem and network processor. Targeted platforms are gigabit-class microwave backhaul systems.
The device, which integrates the technology of recently acquired Provigent, combines the functionality of up to ten off-the-shelf application-specific standard parts (ASSPs) into one SoC. It provides radio-optimized traffic delivery, including robust clock delivery over packet transport needed for network synchronization.
A throughput of 1.25Gbps is achieved using advanced modulation (1024 QAM and 512QAM) and channel widths of up to 112MHz. Broadcom said it has also made strides in with enhanced EPN tolerance and forward error correction (FEC). Both SyncE and 1588 timing are supported. The integrated network processor supports higher layer traffic management. http://www.broadcom.com
- In April, Broadcom completed its previously announced acquisition of Provigent, a supplier of mixed signal semiconductors for microwave backhaul systems. Broadcom paid approximately $313 million, net of cash assumed, to acquire all of the outstanding shares of capital stock and other rights of Provigent. Provigent's System-on-Chip (SoC) solutions address the backhaul bottleneck, including high capacity modem, baseband, networking and RF chain components. The company is based in Israel and it has offices in Santa Clara, California.
