Wireless USB

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File:Wireless USB protocol stack

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File:Wireless USB wire adapters

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Wireless USB (WUSB) is a short-range, high-bandwidth wireless radio communication protocol. It is an extension of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard designed to eliminate the need for physical cables between devices. Wireless USB is based on the WiMedia Alliance's Ultra-Wideband (UWB) common radio platform, which allows for high-speed data transfer over short distances.

History

Wireless USB was developed to address the need for a wireless communication standard that could provide the same ease of use and high data transfer rates as traditional USB. The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) announced the Wireless USB specification in May 2005. The first version of the specification, Wireless USB 1.0, was released in May 2006.

Technical Specifications

Wireless USB operates in the frequency range of 3.1 to 10.6 GHz, utilizing the UWB radio platform. It supports data transfer rates of up to 480 Mbps at a range of up to 3 meters and 110 Mbps at a range of up to 10 meters. The protocol uses a combination of Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) and Time-Frequency Interleaving (TFI) to achieve high data rates and robust communication.

Security

Wireless USB incorporates several security features to ensure secure communication between devices. These include encryption, authentication, and key management. The protocol uses 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) for data encryption and supports public key infrastructure (PKI) for authentication.

Applications

Wireless USB is used in a variety of applications where the elimination of cables is beneficial. Common applications include:

• Wireless docking stations
• Wireless printers
• Wireless external hard drives
• Wireless keyboards and mice
• Digital cameras

Advantages

• **Convenience**: Eliminates the need for physical cables, reducing clutter and improving mobility.
• **High Data Transfer Rates**: Comparable to traditional USB, making it suitable for data-intensive applications.
• **Interoperability**: Compatible with existing USB devices through the use of adapters.

Challenges

• **Range Limitations**: Effective only over short distances, typically up to 10 meters.
• **Interference**: Susceptible to interference from other wireless devices operating in the same frequency range.
• **Adoption**: Limited adoption compared to other wireless technologies such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Related Technologies

• Bluetooth
• Wi-Fi
• Zigbee
• Near Field Communication (NFC)

See Also

• Universal Serial Bus
• Ultra-Wideband
• USB Implementers Forum
• Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing
• Advanced Encryption Standard