Verizon, Marvell intro control point for smart home apps

LAS VEGAS & BASKING RIDGE, USA: Marvell, a worldwide leader in integrated silicon solutions, has announced Control Point, a new home automation portal that combines Marvell's industry-leading Wi-Fi technology with Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network to deliver new power in home automation and control.

The collaboration between Marvell and Verizon Wireless shown at CES 2011 demonstrates how a mobile home server the size of a power plug combined with the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network can manage home security features, lights, heat and air conditioning and integrate all the connected intelligent furnishings at home using a smartphone.

Control Point leverages the Marvell ARMADA 300 processor, designed to enable performance-bound, innovative digital home applications and services. It incorporates Marvell's Avastar 88W8786 solution, designed to allow the Control Point to act as a mini Wi-Fi hotspot for connecting a multitude of devices throughout the home.

Marvell is committed to delivering a high-performance, low-power hardware solution that is inconspicuous in the home but offers the stability and quality of service required for carrier class applications.

"Marvell's vision is to give consumers seamless continuity across connected devices, and this collaboration with Verizon Wireless marks another step forward by delivering always on, always connected capabilities to manage all aspects of their lives," said Weili Dai, co-founder of Marvell.

"Our recent work with the Verizon Wireless LTE Innovation Center has led to an exciting milestone in our on-going relationship with Verizon Wireless as we work together to develop game-changing solutions."

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to its entire 3G coverage area over the next three years.

Verizon Wireless' integration with Marvell technology is a result of collaboration fostered at Verizon Wireless' LTE Innovation Center. The LTE Innovation Center, established in 2008, provides an environment for diverse companies to work together to develop innovative products that leverage 4G LTE technology.