First Successful Voice and Data Field Trial Using 3G Code Division Multiple Access (cdma2000 1x) Technology

In a major breakthrough, Sprint PCS, Samsung Telecommunications America Inc., QUALCOMM Incorporated, and 3Com Corporation have completed the first successful voice and data field trial using standards-based third-generation (3G) Code Division Multiple Access (cdma2000 1x) technology. The trial, which took place on Sprint PCS' network, validated the anticipated benefits of cdma2000 1x technology and opened doors to new wireless consumer and business services.

Key Takeaways:

• The trial, conducted in July and August, was the first in North America and demonstrated the smooth integration of voice and data in one cell at the same radio frequency (RF).
• The results showed that data rates reached 144 kbps with 35 full-rate voice calls being conducted simultaneously.
• The trial used Samsung's 3G Base Station Systems V.4 technology, which nearly doubles current network voice capacity and allows for a seamless migration to future cdma2000 services.
• 3Com Carrier Networks Business provided the core data infrastructure to enable the high-speed data calls, connecting directly to 3Com's core data infrastructure and tapping into the Internet, while the voice portion of the call continued through the mobile switching center (MSC).
• The system used a Packet Data Serving Node (PDSN) to perform traffic aggregation, authentication, accounting, and administration tasks.
• Samsung's 3G 1x handset, commercially available overseas, and QUALCOMM's 3G 1x trial handset were used in the trial, both incorporating QUALCOMM's MSM5000 chipset and system software.
• The CommWorks architecture, provided by 3Com Carrier Networks Business, allows service providers to deliver multiple services, including narrowband enhanced data services, IP telephony, wireless data, and broadband access, over a single converged network.
• The successful completion of over-the-air packet data calls using 3G technology is a significant milestone in the migration to third-generation wireless networks.
• 3G CDMA technology will enable new applications, including faster email, Web browsing, video streaming, intranet access, and fax communications.
• The technology will also pave the way for more reliable mobile commercial services, such as vehicle-based PCs for transportation and fleet applications, and credit card validation for mobile vendors.

Statistics:

• The trial achieved data rates of 144 kbps with 35 full-rate voice calls being conducted simultaneously.
• The use of Samsung's 3G Base Station Systems V.4 technology nearly doubles current network voice capacity.
• 3Com Carrier Networks Business provided the core data infrastructure for the high-speed data calls.
• The trial was conducted using Samsung's 3G 1x handset and QUALCOMM's 3G 1x trial handset, both incorporating QUALCOMM's MSM5000 chipset and system software.

Sources:

• Business Wire: "Sprint PCS, Samsung, QUALCOMM and 3Com Complete First Successful Voice and Data Field Trial Using 3G Code Division Multiple Access (cdma2000 1x) Technology"
• Samsung: "Samsung Telecommunications America, Inc. a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Company, researches, develops, and markets telecommunications and data communications systems and products throughout North America."
• Sprint PCS: "Sprint PCS operates the largest 100 percent digital, 100 percent PCS nationwide wireless network in the United States, already serving the majority of the nation's metropolitan areas including more than 4,000 cities and communities across the country."
• 3Com: "3Com Corporation simplifies how people connect to information and services through easy-to-use, connectivity products and solutions for consumers and commercial organizations."
• QUALCOMM: "QUALCOMM Incorporated (www.qualcomm.com) is a leader in developing and delivering innovative digital wireless communications products and services based on the Company's CDMA digital technology."