Qualcomm Networking Pro A7 Elite is a WiFi 7 SoC with a 40 TOPS NPU for AI-optimized traffic and range

The Qualcomm Networking Pro A7 Elite platform is a new wireless networking platform that integrates WiFi 7 with edge AI. The wireless networking platform can deliver up to 33 Gbps of throughput and features an AI coprocessor that provides up to 40 TOPS for AI workloads.

AI features are designed to enhance Wi-Fi and networking user experience and include Smart Traffic Classifier, Range Boost, and Networking AIOps. The platform also includes 10Gbps Fiber (XGS-PON), Ethernet, front-end modules, and filters into an integrated platform. All these features are designed to streamline system development and reduce design complexity by integrating key elements—from broadband to antenna—into an integrated platform.

Qualcomm Networking Pro A7 Elite platform specification

• Qualcomm’s Wireless Networking Platform
  • CPU – Unnamed quad-core processor, built on a 14 nm node, and clocked at 1.8 GHz
  • NPU – Up to 40 TOPS (AI coprocessor featuring Qualcomm Hexagon NPU)
• System Memory – DDR3L/DDR4
• Storage – NOR, NAND, eMMC
• Passive Optical Network
  • Standard – XGS-PON
  • Deployment types – XGS-PON Residential Gateway (HGS/ONT), XGS-PON SFU ONU, XGS-PON SFU+ ONU
  • Peak Downstream Rate – 10 Gbps
  • Peak Upstream Rate – 10 Gbps
• Wi-Fi
  • Peak PHY Rate – Up to 33 Gbps
  • Support for Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11b/g/n)
  • Frequencies – 6 GHz, 5 GHz, 2.4 GHz up to four bands
  • Channels – 320 MHz, 240 MHz, 160 MHz, 80 MHz, 40 MHz, 20 MHz
  • Maximum Band Configuration – Up to Quad-band
  • Encryption – AES-CCMP, AES-GCMP
  • Security – WPA3 Enhanced Open, PRNG, TKIP, WPS, WPA3 Personal, WPA2, WEP, WAPI2, WAPI1, WPA3 Enterprise, WPA3 Easy Connect
  • Wi-Fi Features – Simultaneous and Alternating Multi-Link modes, Adaptive Interference Puncturing, Up to 4K QAM, DL/UL OFDMA & DL/ UL MU-MIMO, Qualcomm AFC Suite
  • Spatial Streams – Up to 16
• Ethernet – 3x 10/2.5 Gbps Ethernet via USXGMII/SGMII+ interfaces
• Other wireless options – 4G/5G FWA, 802.15.4 (Zigbee/Thread), Bluetooth via platform extension
• USB – USB 2.0, USB 3.0
• Other peripherals – 4x PCIe 3.0, I²C, I²S, PTA Coex, SPI, and UART
• Features
  • Turnkey Qualcomm Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) suite
  • Integrated accelerator designed for AI models specific to Wi-Fi and networking applications
  • Smart Traffic Classifier:
  • Range boost (AI-based transmitter)
  • Networking AIOps

The company mentions that this SoC intelligently manages data paths and uses hardware acceleration to speed up demanding applications. It also works with popular open-source software and middleware such as OpenWRT, RDK, TiP OpenWiFi, prplOS, and OpenSync.

Previously, we have written about the Qualcomm 10G Fiber Gateway Platform which has similar features to the Networking Pro A7 Elite but the new wireless networking platform dedicated AI coprocessor with enhanced Wi-Fi and networking applications and 40 TOP NPU power for features like Smart Traffic Classifier, Range Boost, and Networking AIOps.

At the time of writing the Networking Pro A7 Elite is currently sampling and the company does not specify a general release date. However, Qualcomm will showcase the platform at Network X taking place on October 8-10, 2024 in Paris, where they will also display their latest innovations, including Edge AI applications. More information can be found on Qualcomm’s press release or their product page.

Debashis Das

Debashis Das is a technical content writer and embedded engineer with over five years of experience in the industry. With expertise in Embedded C, PCB Design, and SEO optimization, he effectively blends difficult technical topics with clear communication

Support CNX Software! Donate via cryptocurrencies, become a Patron on Patreon, or purchase goods on Amazon or Aliexpress