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IPWireless ships UMTS TDD broadband solution for 3.4 GHz band
March 12, 2004
IPWireless announced that it has started commercial shipment of a next-generation wireless broadband solution optimized for the 3.4 to 3.6 GHz bands. The 3.4 GHz solution allows operators to deploy ubiquitous, plug-and-play wireless broadband networks that compete directly with fixed broadband services like cable and DSL in performance and price, but with added simplicity and the convenience of full portability or full mobility where licenses allow it. After successful trials in the 3.4 GHz band over the last three months, IPWireless is now shipping equipment to operators launching commercial wireless broadband services.
IPWireless developed the 3.4 GHz solution by re-banding its robust, UMTS TDD Mobile Broadband platform. IPWireless has been shipping commercial UMTS TDD systems for nearly two years in the IMT-2000 1.9 GHz and 2.0 GHz bands, as well as the 2.5 GHz MMDS band. Operators with networks deployed in Australia, Germany, Malaysia, New Zealand, Portugal, South Africa, and the United States have proven that they can profitably offer broadband services that are as fast or faster than DSL and cable services, at prices that either meet or beat the fixed line technologies, while offering the differentiating factors of mobility or portability and a very simple plug-and-play installation.
The IPWireless 3.4 GHz platform includes easy-to-deploy high capacity base stations and other network infrastructure, as well as an affordable, plug-and-play, pocket-sized wireless desktop modem. The solution leverages a number of new options such as transmit diversity to maximize non-line-of-sight coverage and lower initial capital expense for operators, offering a similar coverage to UMTS TDD products in the lower frequency bands. Because no truck rolls or smart antennas are required, the solution is economically attractive and offers an unmatched ease of deployment, even in areas with tough zoning. As most operators in this band have more than 10 MHz of spectrum, they can take full advantage of IPWireless high capacity configuration, with up to 80 Mbps of peak capacity on a fully loaded site. The system offers QOS (Quality of Service), allowing operators to offer carrier grade VoIP, as well as an advanced Tiers of Service mechanism, which allows service providers to maximize revenue by offering packages targeted to different subscriber segments.
The IPWireless Desktop Modem gives consumer and business users the speed of broadband Internet access, combined with the freedom of portability. The modem offers simple plug-and-play installation that allows subscribers to very quickly set up their own broadband connection to laptops, desktops, or LANs, with no externally mounted antenna required. The modem is powered by the IPWireless UMTS TDD ASIC, which enables the modem's exceptional performance and low power requirements at a low cost. The modem connects with any computer equipped with a USB or Ethernet interface. Powered by an AC adaptor, the compact design of the modem allows for easy transport for portable use by consumer and business users.
"Based on shipments globally of non-line-of-site plug-and-play systems and commercial deployments to-date, UMTS TDD has emerged as the leading standard for next-generation wireless broadband. We believe that a UMTS TDD solution introduces a new era for 3.4 GHz spectrum holders globally," said Chris Gilbert, chief executive officer, IPWireless. "Powerful business models that previously have only been available in lower frequencies are now possible in this historically underutilized band. Operators can now offer the types of user personal broadband services that consumers around the world have proven they want."
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