reasons why HomeRF lost out to Wi-Fi are given below. prices, have made computer networking a common Many of the new wireless short-range systems are occurrence in multi-computer offices and homes. designed for operation on the 2.4 GHz ISM band, There are still three prime disadvantages to wireless available for license-free operation in North America and networks as compared to wired: range limitation, sus- Europe, as well as virtually all other regions in the world. ceptibility to electromagnetic interference, and security. Most systems have provisions for handling errors due to Direct links may be expected to perform at a top range of interference, but when the density of deployment of one 50 to 100 meters depending on frequency band and sur- or more systems is high, throughput, voice intelligibility, roundings. Longer distances and obstacles will reduce or quality of service in general is bound to suffer. We will data throughput. Greater distances between network look at some aspects of this problem and methods for participants are achieved by installing additional access solving it in relation to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. points to bridge remote network nodes. Reception of A relatively new approach to short-range communi- radio signals may be interfered with by other services cations with unique technological characteristics is ultra- operating on the same frequency band and in the wideband (UWB) signal generation and detection. UWB same vicinity. Wireless transmissions are subject to Communications Engineering Desk Reference; ISBN: 9780123746481 Copyright © 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved CHAPTER 5.2 Short-range wireless applications and technologies eavesdropping, and a standardized security implementa- The HomeRF Working Group ceased activity early in tion in Wi-Fi called WEP (wired equivalent privacy), has 2003. Several reasons may be cited for its demise. Re- been found to be breachable with relative ease by per- duction in prices of its biggest competitor, Wi-Fi, all but sistent and knowledgeable hac