Cinterion, a Gemalto (News - Alert) company and a provider of cellular machine-to-machine (M2M) communication modules, has launched its flagship HSPA+ M2M module, PH8.

High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) is a combination of two mobile telephony protocols, namely High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) and High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA). HSPA+, also called Evolved HSPA, is a further wireless broadband standard that provides HSPA data rates up to 56 Mbps on the downlink and 22 Mbps on the uplink through the use of a multiple-antenna technique.

The new module with HSPA+ for M2M communication is designed to deliver reliable, high-speed wireless connectivity on both 2G and 3G networks. Officials with the company said that this fully ruggedized, high bandwidth module acts as a bridge to evolving 4G networks such as LTE (News - Alert).

Designed to meet specific M2M solution requirements for longevity, ruggedness and worldwide functionality, the new PH8 module features the latest 45 nanometer chipset from Qualcomm’s long-life program.

Offering reliable M2M grade functionality with speeds up to 14.4 Mbps for downloads and 5.76 Mbps for uploads, the new PH8 HSPA+ module has been provided with a robust, single-sided design for superior heat dissipation. This design enables PH8 to outperform power-consuming PCIe devices.

With the help of new PH8 module, data rich M2M applications such as streaming video on outdoor billboards, mobile medical monitoring applications, video surveillance solutions and Industrial PDAs can be integrate easily, says Cinterion (News - Alert).

In addition, the PH8 module also offers round-the-clock communications even in extreme environments of temperature, vibration and very remote locations. The module id provided with three antenna connectors for improved data speed under fluctuating network conditions and continuous GPS monitoring without blanking.

For true global roaming and worldwide support, the PH8 is compatible with Quad-Band GSM/GPRS, EDGE and five UMTS bands. The module is also provided with full voice support including analog audio processing for quick and easy audio implementation for OEMs and developers.

Psion Teklogix (News - Alert), a provider of ruggedized handheld computers, is the first OEM to integrate PH8 in its new Psion EP10, an industrial PDA scheduled for commercial production in 2011.

Norbert Muhrer (News - Alert), CEO of Cinterion, said in a statement, “Embedded communication modules are crucial to the success of machine-to-machine applications and Cinterion continues to develop high-quality, reliable products like the PH8 that is designed for peak performance.”