Marvell unveils faster 802.11n chip for 450Mbps WiFi data rates

Marvell this week unveiled a new 802.11n solution that utilizes a 4x4 architecture on a single-die. Calling it a world-first, Marvell says the new Marvell Avastar 88W8764 comes with four independent transmit-receive RF chains and Tx beamforming capability. With support for three Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) spatial data streams, the 4x4 solution is capable of cranking data speeds up to 450Mbps--50 percent higher than current 300Mbps solutions.

Wireless LAN Accessories

This in-building antenna is designed for recessed ceiling spatial diversity installations requiring wideband coverage of 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz & 4.9 - 5.85Ghz frequencies. This model combines three ultra flat omnidirectional antennas with isolation greater than 25dB within 1 aesthetic radome. It utilizes UL listed materials that meet strict UL safety specifications for in-building installations, including 3 x 12 inch Plenum rated pigtails that can be terminated with various types of connectors.

Antenna Dimensions:
0.35 lbs Weight
0.99” Depth
7.875” Length
4.1” Width
FEATURES: • Efficient omni-directional diversity and MIMO performance. Provides excellent performance using 3 total 2.4 & 5Ghz elements in a single, low profile design.• Easy to install and mount to a recessed ceiling tile system.• Plenum rated cable can be installed in many indoor mounting locations, not just plenum areas.• Covers 2.4 to 2.5 GHz for 802.11b/g, and 4.9 to 6 GHz for 802.11a and all US, European, and Japanese WLAN applications• Coaxial cable pigtails with various connector choices

Multiple Input, Multiple Output

IEEE 802.11n builds on previous 802.11 standards by adding multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) 11n a (PHY) Physical Layer 1 of the OSI model. 40 MHz channels to the PHY (physical layer), and frame aggregation to the MAC layer.


With MIMO, each physical radio card had multiple radio chains - currently up to three per physical radio card. There will be up to four radio chains per radio card. A radio chain is an RF radio
connected to an RF antenna.



MIMO is a technology which uses multiple antennas to coherently resolve more information than possible using a single antenna. In 802.11a,b, and g systems multiple transmissions are not possible without significant impact to throughput and link integrity.