The chip operates in the 60-GHz unlicensed band, which has attracted a high level of attention because of its high level of unused capacity. The frequency will support WiGig, the next extension of the Wi-Fi platform (802.11ad), and other protocols targeted at high speed, short range links. Applications are likely to include in-home video networks, small cell backhaul, and cable replacement in connecting PCs, peripherals and consumer electronics.
There are already 60GHz chips being sampled but none close to the speed achieved by KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), according to local news agency Yon-hap. Its speed would allow a 4.7GB file to be sent in 3.76 seconds, said the report, compared to over three minutes over current fast Wi-Fi.
“It is a key new technology that can greatly increase the competitiveness of the country's smart-phones. The chip can also replace various cables that existing televisions require, which means it can be used not only in smartphones but also in other mobile devices, such as cameras,” said Park Cheol-soon, a KAIST professor in charge of the project, as quoted by ZDnet.
To make it small enough for mobile devices, the chip needs only one antenna for both outgoing and incoming data, unlike conventional RF chips, said the institute.
Korea's government research agencies have close ties to the country's hi-tech businesses, so Samsung and LG could hope to have early access to this technology in future for their mobile gadgets, TVs and in-home media networks.