SigmaTel's USB-to-Serial Infrared Chip

SigmaTel's STIr4115 is a USB-to-Infrared SIR (Serial Infrared) device designed for PDAs and cell phones that require low cost and low power without high-speed data transfers. With data rates up to 115 kb/sec, the STIr4115 is designed for application-specific data transfer needs, like PDAs and cell phones that only transfer text-based information. Since serial ports may soon be going the way of ISA cards and 5.25" floppies, Sigmatel is touting this device as a component for connection solutions that could last a few more years. The USB/Ir adapter reference designs developed by SigmaTel are available in a cabled adapter format as well as a small form factor configuration, both of which allow for a direct plug-and-play USB connection. The small form-factor adapter turns the USB port into an infrared port. The STIr4115 is currently in production and is available for $3 in quantities of 10,000 and is available in a 28-pin SSOP package. Another version, called the STIr4200 FIR (Fast Infrared) is available for $5 in quantity.