The power amplifier market is experiencing one of the most heated technology races in Wi-Fi. GaAs, with its low power consumption and ability to provide good performance at 5 GHz leads this segment. With SiGe's potential integration and cost advantages, SiGe vendors have made inroads against GaAs at 2.4 GHz, and will continue to push this technology over the next five years in crucial, high value power amplifier and front-end module markets.
"Several SiGe and GaAs power amplifier vendors made dramatic inroads against better established Wi-Fi power amplifier vendors in 2004 with the introduction of front-end modules incorporating filters, switches and power amplifier chips. We believe that the simplicity of modules for system makers means that this trend will continue," says Asif Anwar, director of the Strategy Analytics GaAs Program.
Despite the opportunities for Wi-Fi chip makers, this report makes sobering reading for vendors. "Broadcom, Atheros and Intel presently control over half of the Wi-Fi chip market," states Chris Taylor, Director, Strategy Analytics' RF & Wireless Component service. He adds, "The number of vendors has fallen dramatically over the past two years, but we count at least 58 players still in this market, which is still far too many. We only expect around 20 to survive the next five years."
The report contains an analysis of Wi-Fi volume by application, forecasts by technology and vendor market shares for Wi-Fi chipsets and PAs.
About Strategy Analytics
Strategy Analytics, Inc. - a global research and consulting firm - provides timely insights and strategic business solutions to companies operating at the convergence of information, communications and entertainment technologies. For more information, see www.strategyanalytics.com.
Contact:
Strategy Analytics, Inc. US Contact: Chris Taylor, 617-614-0706 Email Contact or European Contact: Asif Anwar, +44(0) 1908 423 635 Email Contact