BATH, UK: picoChip has launched the picoXcell PC312 HSPA+ femtocell system-on-chip (SoC), the industry's first such device to support eight users, with simultaneous voice and data services.

Offering 64QAM modulation and 3GPP Release 7 features for high-speed communication, the device is the newest addition to the picoXcell PC3xx family of single-chip femtocells launched in 2008. All are fully pin-compatible and offer customers a seamless migration path.

The picoXcell PC312 serves the rapidly emerging market for higher capacity femtocells for enterprise use. It is pin-compatible with the existing four-user picoXcell PC302 device. This feature, allied with low power consumption that eliminates the need for a heatsink, allows manufacturers to develop a range of residential and enterprise products that offer low cost, low power, small size and high performance.

The new device builds on picoChip's robust and field-proven modems, including the existing PC8219 eight-user solution, launched earlier this year with the backing of two major players in the femtocell market.