The following definitions may help with your search in our Wi-Fi CERTIFIED products database.
Reference Design and Modules
Embedded Module
A computer system that operates and controls a specific, dedicated task. This task or function is combined with other embedded modules to make up a larger, complete system. The embedded module can be optimized for its specific task, thus optimizing the larger system.
Reference Design
A product or system design that contains essential elements such as hardware, software and firmware, or the specification for essential elements. It is generally created by one company and made available or sold to other companies to be used as-is or with enhancements or modifications.
Networking
Access Point for Home or Small Office (Wireless Router)
A device that attaches to a broadband (DSL or cable) modem (usually provided by a broadband service provider) and enables access to a network, such as the Internet, from Wi-Fi-enabled devices. Access points allow Wi-Fi enabled devices access to a single network, while wireless routers allow access to multiple networks and typically incorporate access point and other functionality.
Cable, DSL or Other Broadband Gateway (Integrated Home Access Device)
For home or small offices, this device is also known as an Integrated Home Access Device, and is usually provided by a broadband service provider. It eliminates the need for a separate access point or router by combining the functionality of a broadband modem with the ability to distribute a Wi-Fi signal.
Enterprise/Service Provider Access Point, Switch/Controller or Router
A device that distributes a Wi-Fi signal and is designed with security and management features that make it suitable for use in a large corporate or campus network. Access points allow wireless clients access to a single network. A switch transfers data packets, using IP addresses, from one device to another, and many incorporate router functionality. Wireless routers allow access to multiple networks and typically incorporate access point and other functionality.
Mobile Access Point (Battery Powered)
A Wi-Fi device with access point (AP) functionality powered by an internal battery.
Consumer Electronics
Digital Audio - Portable (MP3 Player)
Small devices designed primarily to play music or audio content on the go. Some of these devices are also able to play video files.
Digital Audio - Stationary (speakers, receiver, MP3 player)
This category includes all audio devices designed to be stationary, such as audio tuners/receivers, speakers, and digital music players.
eReader
A portable device used primarily for reading digital books or magazines. Often includes Wi-Fi and/or cellular radios used to download e-books from a service provider.
Game Console or Game Console Adapter
A stationary dedicated device designed to play video games. Usually the output device is a separate television or a computer monitor. This category includes external Wi-Fi adapters that convert a wired game console into a Wi-Fi enabled one.
Gaming Device – Portable
A handheld device designed to play video games on the go.
Media Adapter
A device designed to deliver media content (music, photographs, video) to a display device via Wi-Fi.
Media Remote/Input Device
A portable device used to control multiple home theater components, including TV, stereo, receiver, DVR, Blu-ray, etc.
Media Server
A device designed to store media content (music, photographs, video) for eventual sharing with other devices.
Navigation/GPS
A device used primarily to determine geographic location or to provide directions between multiple locations.
Picture Frame
A device designed primarily to display still digital photographs. These devices may also include the ability to play video and audio files. Picture frames with wireless connectivity can use Wi-Fi to update media files on the device.
Set Top Box, Media Extender (includes players & recorders)
Devices that connect to a display device to deliver video content from recorded media, cable, satellite or other media sources. This includes DVRs and DVD players.
Still Camera
A camera which takes primarily still photographs. It may also include the capability to take short video clips.
Television
A device designed primarily to display a television broadcast signal. This signal can originate from over-the-air (UHF and VHF), a cable provider through a connection to your home or building, or a satellite. Wi-Fi enabled televisions can also display content from the internet or another device in the home network.
Video Camera
A device which is designed primarily to take moving videos, though it may also have the ability to capture still images.
Web Camera
A video camera that is connected to a computer or network and primarily used for video conferencing, surveillance, and security.
Computing and Peripherals
Docking Station
A device that allows multiple peripheral devices to connect to a main electronic device, such as a laptop computer. A docking station can contain different port and connector types, or it can connect wirelessly.
External Adapter
A device which can be inserted into an external slot/connector (USB, PCMCIA, CardBus, ExpressCard) on a notebook or desktop computer to add additional capability, such as Wi-Fi.
Internal Adapter
A device which can be inserted into an internal slot/connector (USB, PCMCIA, CardBus, ExpressCard) on a notebook or desktop computer to add additional capability, such as Wi-Fi.
Keyboard
An input peripheral used to enter text or characters into a computing device. It can also be used to control functions specific to a software application, such as video game control.
Laptop Computer
A computing device designed for portability. Laptop computers, sometimes called notebook computers, have all of the typical functionality found in the typical desktop computer, but in a smaller form factor which can be carried easily in a briefcase.
Monitor
A device that visually displays video or images on its own screen. A monitor can be a peripheral device and connect by cable or wirelessly to its source, or it can be integrated into its source.
Mouse
A peripheral used to control movement and pointing of a cursor on a monitor. Most mice have buttons that allow the user to perform specialized interactions with applications.
Network Storage Device (networked hard drive)
A device that stores data for retrieval at a later time and on any connected device. These drives can be configured to work wirelessly with specific devices, or they can be networked to allow access to users who are connected to the internet. Also known as Network Attached Storage, or NAS.
PDA (Personal Digital Assistant)
A small portable device designed to manage contacts, calendaring, and other personal organizer functions. A Wi-Fi enabled PDA can use Wi-Fi to synch with desktop applications such as Microsoft Outlook®. If a PDA includes voice capability over Wi-Fi or cellular, it is considered a smartphone (see below).
Printer/Multi-Function Printer/Print Server
A Wi-Fi enabled device which prints documents or photos from a camera, PC, or other source and may also have scanner and/or fax capability. This category also includes devices which convert a wired printer to a Wi-Fi enabled printer.
Projector
A peripheral device that is used to visually display video or images to the user. A projector differs from a monitor in that the image is not viewed on the device, but instead typically viewed on a wall or external screen.
Tablet (Wi-Fi and other)
A computing device designed for portability, smaller than a notebook computer but larger than a smartphone. A tablet usually uses a touch screen for input control, replacing a mouse and keyboard. Tablets in this category include Wi-Fi and other wireless connectivity, such as 3G.
Tablet (Wi-Fi only)
A computing device designed for portability, smaller than a notebook computer but larger than a smartphone. A tablet usually uses a touch screen for input control, replacing a mouse and keyboard. Tablets in this category only include a Wi-Fi radio for wireless communication.
Ultra-mobile PC
A computing device that provides full PC capabilities and Internet connectivity on the go, but which is smaller than a laptop computer (has a 7-inch or smaller screen) and relies on a tablet-like interface.
Handsets
Phone, multi-mode (Wi-Fi and other)
A basic mobile phone handset that can carry voice applications over cellular or Wi-Fi radios. These phones provide a numeric keypad only.
Phone, single-mode (Wi-Fi only)
A basic handset that does not include a cellular connection, but handles voice applications (VoIP) over Wi-Fi only. This category also includes Wi-Fi cordless phones for home use. These phones provide a numeric keypad only.
Smartphone, multi-mode (Wi-Fi and other)
A mobile phone handset that can carry voice and data applications via cellular or Wi-Fi connections, and which includes robust data capability to manage a wide range of applications, such as calendar, contact, email, Web browsing, and gaming. A smart phone typically includes a full QWERTY keyboard. Note that some smartphones use Wi-Fi connection to transmit data only (not voice).
Automotive and Transportation
In-vehicle Network
A component of a system that is used inside vehicles to communicate data to other components. Examples include Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, Remote Keyless Entry, and Vehicle Immobilization Systems.
Transportation Management
Devices used to monitor and analyze vehicular traffic and systems. Wi-Fi devices can include video cameras along roads to monitor traffic conditions, dynamic road signs that can be updated remotely and instantly, and dynamic traffic light control. These devices use Wi-Fi to communicate to Wi-Fi equipped vehicles to further optimize traffic management.
Health and Fitness
Medical/Fitness Device
A device used to monitor vital signs or activity levels of a user. These devices will typically connect to a central system to upload the recorded information.
Smart Energy
Appliances
A device used to perform a specific function, usually for household use. Smart energy appliances include any household device that can connect to a central system that monitors energy usage and adjusts energy consumption.
Home Energy Management
A device used to monitor and/or control energy usage in a home. These devices are typically the central point in Energy Management Systems to which all appliances connect, and they typically serve as the central thermostat. Home Energy Management devices also can display energy produced and consumed by various systems.
Home Security and Control
A device used to monitor and/or control home security systems. Wi-Fi enabled Home Security and Control devices can consist of door and window alarms, motion sensors, fire and smoke detectors, video cameras, and more. These devices are connected to a central system control unit that can relay the system status to a monitoring company and to the owner through wireless devices.
Hot Water Heater
A device that controls the temperature of water coming into a building. Wi-Fi enabled hot water heaters connect to a central system that monitors energy usage and can adjust energy consumption. This central system can be accessed by the owner through a dedicated or internet console, or by the utility company through its smart meter.
Refrigerator
A device that is used to cool items placed inside of it. Typically used for cooling and preservation of food. Wi-Fi enabled refrigerators connect to a central system that monitors energy usage and can adjust energy consumption. This central system can be accessed by the owner through a dedicated or internet console, or by the utility company through its smart meter.
Thermostat
A device that monitors and controls the ambient temperature in a room or building. Wi-Fi enabled thermostats connect to a central system that monitors energy usage and can adjust energy consumption. This central system can be accessed by the owner through a dedicated or internet console, or by the utility company through its smart meter.
Transmission and Distribution Equipment
A device that processes transmission and distribution of electric power. Wi-Fi enabled transmission and distribution equipment help control energy allocation to other devices on its network.
Utility Meter
A device that records usage of a utility for a building or set of buildings. Utilities can include electricity, water, or gas. Wi-Fi enabled smart utility meters transmit energy data to a utility company. Some utility companies offer the ability to adjust energy usage to the connected appliances after analyzing this data.
Washer/Dryer
A device that automatically washes and dries clothes. Can be one combination device, or a separate device to wash and to dry. Wi-Fi enabled washers and dryers connect to a central system that monitors energy usage and can adjust energy consumption. This central system can be accessed by the owner through a dedicated or internet console, or by the utility company through its smart meter.
Other
Embedded Sensor
A device that detects a specific input from its environment. Embedded sensors are located inside of other objects, whose main task is larger than that of the sensor.
Industrial
A device used for communication and input specifically designed for industrial settings.
Other
Any device that does not fit into the categories listed.