Shanghai Feixun Data Communication Technology Co., Ltd. (PHICOMM)
Shanghai Feixun Data Communication Technology Co., Ltd., which operates under the brand name PHICOMM, is a high-tech enterprise based in China that specializes in the research, development, manufacturing, and marketing of data communication equipment and consumer electronics.
Founded in 2008, the company established itself as a significant manufacturer in the networking space and later expanded its ambitions to include mobile devices, enterprise networking, and smart home ecosystems. PHICOMM's business was structured around several key divisions, including SOHO (Smart Home), Mobile, ENT (Enterprise Networking), ICT (Information and Communications Technology), and Cloud services.
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Core Business and Products
PHICOMM's product portfolio was diverse, aiming to cover a wide spectrum of the technology market, from individual consumers to large enterprises.
Networking Equipment (SOHO)
This was PHICOMM's most prominent and widely recognized business segment. The company produced a comprehensive range of networking hardware for Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) and personal use.
- Wireless Routers: PHICOMM was best known for its line of Wi-Fi routers. This range included:
- High-Performance Smart Routers: Models like the PHICOMM K3 and K3C were flagship products. These were high-end routers featuring AC3150 or AC1900 speeds, MU-MIMO technology, and Gigabit Ethernet. The K3, in particular, was noted for its unique, minimalist design by the Scandinavian firm Jacob Jensen Design and its integrated 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen.
- Mid-Range and Budget Routers: The company offered a full line of routers to meet various needs, such as the KE2P (AC1300) and KE2M, as well as simpler Wireless-N models like the FWR-634N.
- Travel Routers: PHICOMM also produced compact nano routers, like the M1, designed for travelers to create a wireless network on the go.
- Modems: The company manufactured ADSL routers and other modem-router combo devices for internet access.
- Network Switches: PHICOMM produced Ethernet switches for expanding wired networks in homes and small offices.
- Powerline Adapters (PLC): The company offered PLC devices, which use a building's existing electrical wiring to transmit network data.
- Media Converters: These devices were produced to convert signals between different media types, such as from copper Ethernet to fiber optics.
Mobile Division
PHICOMM's mobile division was focused on the design and manufacturing of smartphones and tablets.
- PHICOMM-Branded Smartphones: The company developed and marketed its own smartphones, attempting to build a brand presence in the competitive mobile market, including planned expansions into regions like India.
- ODM Manufacturing: Beyond its own brand, PHICOMM also operated as an Original Design Manufacturer (ODM). In this capacity, it designed and manufactured mobile phones for other companies, which were then sold under those companies' brand names.
Enterprise Networking (ENT)
For business and enterprise clients, PHICOMM developed more robust networking solutions designed for higher density and greater reliability.
- PON Equipment: The company manufactured equipment for Passive Optical Networks (PON), including EPON (Ethernet Passive Optical Network) and GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network) systems. These technologies are used by telecommunications providers to deliver fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and business services.
Cloud and ICT
PHICOMM also established business units focused on broader technology solutions, including:
- Cloud Services: This division was aimed at providing data center and enterprise storage solutions.
- ICT (Information and Communications Technology): This unit was set up to handle large-scale information and communication technology projects.
Smart Home Strategy
A key part of PHICOMM's strategy, particularly in its later years, was to position itself as a "smart home" company. Its high-end routers, like the K3, were marketed as the central hub for a connected home. The company also developed other smart devices, such as wired smart switches, to be integrated into a smart home ecosystem.
