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News
Issue #2002 - 36
(September 2002)
(Updated
October 2, 2002)
INFRASTRUCTURE, PRODUCTS & SERVICES
First handover Between GSM and WCDMA
with High Data Rate in Live Networks - a Major Step for the
3G-industry
September 24, 2002 - Ericsson
today announced the first live, dual mode WCDMA/GSM calls with
seamless handover between the two modes. The demonstration, which
was performed for Telia and Hi3G (Hutchison Whampoa), also included
high data rate in live WCDMA/GSM networks. The small-sized Sony
Ericsson test units used are based on a commercial platform
developed by Ericsson Mobile Platforms.
Allowing the user to seamlessly hand
over calls between different networks is an important step in the 3G
roll out. Handover makes it possible for incumbent operators to
expand their 3G networks and offer consumers complete coverage right
from the start by combining existing GSM network with the new WCDMA
networks.
Ericsson demonstrated WCDMA/GSM
end-to-end calls using small-sized handsets in live networks with
high-speed data rates up to 384 kbit/s, which is equal to broadband.
The Sony Ericsson test units used are designed for interoperability
tests with different networks and as proof of concept for customers
using the 3G platform from Ericsson. The mobile platform solution is
capable of full WCDMA and GSM/GPRS dual mode, including handover. It
also supports a complete set of 3G applications and thus enables the
development of small attractive 3G handsets. Power consumption and
battery capacity of the handsets used is equal to today's GSM
phones.
"This is a key milestone for our
3G development. It is extremely important for our customers to try
our platform integrated in a small-sized handset. Now we can offer
mobile phone manufacturers a complete end-to-end-proven WCDMA/GSM
dual mode platform," says Tord Wingren, President of Ericsson
Mobile Platforms.
"Today's demonstration is an
important step for launching our services for mobile moving
pictures, which require high data rates. We are indeed confident in
Ericsson's capability to deliver high quality solutions for
3G-services that our customers demand," says Chris Bannister
CEO, Hi3G (Hutchison Whampoa). Ericsson Mobile Platforms has during
the last year constantly proven progress within 3G development by
demonstrating WCDMA voice and high data rate calls in live networks.
Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications
and LG Electronics have licensed Ericsson's technology for
development of commercial 3G handsets. "The dual-mode platform
from Ericsson Mobile Platforms enables the manufacturers and
operators to concentrate on application and service developments and
launch products with a secure technical solution. I feel confident
that we will launch commercial 3G products as planned," says
Jan W=E4reby, Vice President Marketing of Sony Ericsson Mobile
Communications. Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and
Broadband Internet communication through its continuous technology
leadership. Providing innovative solutions in more than 140
countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful
communication companies in the world.
For more information: peter.olofsson@lme.ericsson.se
and http://www.ericssen.se
MobileInfo Comments and Advisory: This
is a major achievement that will persuade service providers to not
to mothball their 3G network projects. Migration from the
current networks to future networks is a major concern from service
providers' and consumer perspectives. We see progress both in the
handset area and in the infrastructure. 3G challenge is enormous but
achievements like these give us hope that we shall get there - not
in accordance with hyped-up time table of last year but pragmatic
time table of this year.
Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in
developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology
architectures. All trademarks used in this summary are
the property of their respective owners.
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