STMicroelectronics Enables Near-Field Communication Connectivity Support for Windows 8

GENEVA, Sept. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications and a leading supplier of NFC (Near-Field Communication) devices for mobile and portable applications, has worked with Microsoft to enable ST's NFC solution support for the upcoming Windows 8 operating system. ST will demonstrate its NFC solution at the Microsoft BUILD conference, September 13-16, 2011 in Anaheim, CA. 

ST is enabling NFC connectivity in future Windows 8-based devices facilitating new types of short-range, security-enhanced and convenient communication among all these devices. Running on Windows 8, ST's ST21NFCA NFC router can provide Reader/Writer, Peer-to-Peer and Card Emulation communication modes, as well as I2C and SPI connectivity to the host processor and several connections to optional Secure Elements.

"As an early supporter of Windows 8, ST has a unique opportunity to enable plug-and-play NFC features on upcoming Windows 8-based tablets and PCs," said Marie-France Florentin, General Manager, Secure Microcontrollers Division at STMicroelectronics. "With the NFC support for Windows 8, end users will enjoy new and convenient ways of interacting and sharing data with their peers."

ST's offering integrates all the necessary hardware and software for a complete NFC system, supporting all existing contactless standards for proximity and vicinity. The main components are the NFC router (ST21NFCA) with associated software, Secure Elements (the ST33 family), NFC forum tags(1), and dual-interface EEPROM solutions.

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications with innovative semiconductor solutions. ST aims to be the undisputed leader in multimedia convergence and power applications leveraging its vast array of technologies, design expertise and combination of intellectual property portfolio, strategic partnerships and manufacturing strength. In 2010, the Company's net revenues were $10.35 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com. 

(1)  specific types of contactless cards or tags, as defined and standardized by the NFC Forum, that can be read by any NFC device

SOURCE STMicroelectronics