Product Description
The MediaTek MT7628DAN/A is a cost-effective, highly integrated wireless networking solution designed primarily for Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) applications. It is often found in home routers, gateways, and smart home devices, as well as in more specialized applications like security cameras and IoT hubs.
Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) Connectivity:
The MT7628DAN/A supports Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), which provides reliable wireless connectivity at speeds of up to 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band. While not as fast as newer Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 standards, Wi-Fi 4 is still perfectly suited for basic internet usage, video streaming, and IoT applications. The chipset also supports 2x2 MIMO, which allows for two simultaneous data streams, improving the overall throughput and signal reliability.
The chipset typically operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, which provides a larger coverage area but at lower data rates compared to the 5 GHz band. However, the trade-off is longer range and better compatibility with older devices that only support the 2.4 GHz band.
Integrated Processor and Performance:
The MT7628DAN/A features a 1 GHz MIPS processor, which handles the core functions of the device, including network processing, routing, and application management. The processor is powerful enough to handle multiple connections and deliver a smooth experience for basic internet browsing, streaming, and even light online gaming.
In addition to the processor, the chipset includes support for up to 128 MB of RAM and external flash storage, making it suitable for handling firmware updates, application data, and multiple user connections simultaneously. This makes the MT7628DAN/A well-suited for use in home routers and gateway devices that serve as the central hub for smart home networks.
Low Power Consumption:
Designed with low power consumption in mind, the MT7628DAN/A is ideal for always-on applications like home routers and smart home hubs. The chipset’s energy-efficient design ensures that it does not waste power while delivering continuous connectivity, making it an ideal choice for IoT devices that require long-term operation on battery power. This efficiency also makes the MT7628DAN/A attractive in devices where minimizing operational costs is crucial.
Connectivity Features:
The MT7628DAN/A is equipped with Ethernet ports that provide 10/100 Mbps wired connectivity, which is sufficient for typical home networking needs. The device can handle a WAN port (for internet connectivity) and multiple LAN ports (for local devices). This configuration is standard for entry-level home routers, offering stable wired connections for devices like PCs, printers, and smart TVs.
Additionally, the MT7628DAN/A supports basic security features such as WPA2 and firewall protection, ensuring that devices on the network are protected from unauthorized access. It also includes a DHCP server for automatic IP address assignment, simplifying the setup process for end users.
Applications and Use Cases:
The MT7628DAN/A is commonly used in a range of budget-friendly consumer devices, including home routers, IoT gateways, and other connected devices. Its low cost, low power consumption, and adequate performance for everyday networking tasks make it ideal for devices that require simple, reliable connectivity without the need for high-speed data transmission.
This chipset is often used in devices that require 24/7 operation, such as home security cameras, smart thermostats, and other home automation devices. Its integrated MIPS processor ensures it can handle basic networking tasks while remaining cost-effective and energy-efficient.
Specification
Wireless Connectivity:
Wi-Fi Standard: The MT7628DAN/A supports Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), capable of operating on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. However, most implementations of the MT7628DAN/A typically operate in the 2.4 GHz band to offer extended range and compatibility with most consumer devices.
Maximum Data Rate: The chipset provides a maximum theoretical throughput of 300 Mbps in 2.4 GHz, utilizing 40 MHz channels. This speed is sufficient for basic internet browsing, video streaming, and casual gaming.
MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output): The MT7628DAN/A supports 2x2 MIMO, allowing two spatial streams for better throughput and range, enhancing the performance of the wireless network in medium-density environments.
Backward Compatibility: It is backward compatible with older Wi-Fi standards, including 802.11a/b/g, ensuring compatibility with legacy devices.
Processor and Performance:
MIPS Processor: The MT7628DAN/A is equipped with a 1 GHz MIPS-based processor that handles both the routing and application processing tasks. This processor is efficient enough for networking tasks like packet forwarding, NAT (Network Address Translation), firewalling, and more. It provides good balance for mid-range applications such as home routers, IP cameras, and smart home hubs.
System Resources:
RAM: The chipset supports external RAM configurations of up to 128 MB. This provides adequate memory for running lightweight applications and handling multiple network connections simultaneously.
Storage: The MT7628DAN/A supports flash storage (NAND Flash) via the SPI interface. This allows for efficient storage of firmware and software applications, which can be easily updated over-the-air (OTA) or through direct updates.
Peripherals: The MT7628DAN/A provides multiple GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins and other interfaces such as SPI, UART, and I2C, which can be used to connect additional peripherals in embedded systems and IoT devices.
Networking and Connectivity:
Ethernet Ports: The MT7628DAN/A supports 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports, providing wired connectivity for devices that require stable connections, such as desktop computers or media servers. It typically includes one WAN port (for connecting to the internet) and multiple LAN ports (for local devices).
Network Address Translation (NAT): The chipset handles NAT functionality, which is essential for routers and gateways, allowing multiple devices on the local network to share a single public IP address.
Security: The chipset supports key security protocols like WPA2, WPA3 (in some implementations), and WEP, ensuring secure wireless communication. It also supports firewall functionality to prevent unauthorized access and protect devices on the local network.
DHCP Server: The MT7628DAN/A features a built-in DHCP server for dynamic IP address allocation to connected devices, simplifying network setup.
Power and Efficiency:
Low Power Consumption: The MT7628DAN/A is designed with power efficiency in mind, operating with a relatively low power consumption profile. This makes it suitable for always-on devices like routers and IoT hubs, where minimizing energy consumption is a priority.
Energy-Efficient Design: The chipset is built to handle continuous data traffic without consuming excessive energy, ideal for devices that require 24/7 operation, such as home routers, smart home gateways, and connected appliances.
Power Supply: Typically powered by a 3.3V or 5V supply, the MT7628DAN/A is designed for cost-sensitive applications where low power operation is essential for extending battery life in IoT devices.
System Integration:
Embedded Systems: The MT7628DAN/A is often used in embedded systems due to its small form factor and integration capabilities. It provides the processing power needed for tasks like home automation, security cameras, and smart appliances. Its low power and cost-effective features make it particularly well-suited for IoT solutions.
Connectivity Options: The MT7628DAN/A integrates multiple interfaces such as USB 2.0, SDIO, and PCIe for external connectivity, making it adaptable for systems that need USB storage, external wireless modules, or additional peripherals.
