Sprint and Lucent Successfully Complete 3G Wireless Calls, Paving the Way for Faster Wireless Data

Strategic Insights -

Sprint PCS and Lucent Technologies have made a significant breakthrough in wireless technology, successfully completing over-the-air high-speed wireless packet data calls using third-generation (3G) code division multiple access (CDMA) 1x wireless technology. This achievement demonstrates Sprint PCS' leadership in wireless data and paves the way for faster wireless data services, including increased network capacity and longer battery life. The new 3G 1X Radio Transmission Technology (RTT) is expected to double the voice capacity and provide peak data transmission rates up to 10 times faster than currently available.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sprint PCS and Lucent Technologies have successfully completed over-the-air high-speed wireless packet data calls using 3G CDMA 1x wireless technology, demonstrating Sprint PCS' leadership in wireless data.
  • The new 3G 1X Radio Transmission Technology (RTT) is expected to double the voice capacity and provide peak data transmission rates up to 10 times faster than currently available.
  • The 3G 1X RTT is based on a recently adopted standard (cdma2000(TM)) that enables today's CDMA to support more users and improve data performance in line with a global standards proposal under consideration by the International Telecommunications Union.
  • The technology preserves current investments and is a cost-effective way for Sprint PCS to be ready for the next-generation of wireless communications.
  • Sprint PCS operates the largest 100 percent digital, 100 percent PCS nationwide wireless network in the United States, serving the majority of the nation's metropolitan areas, including more than 4,000 cities and communities across the country.
  • The technology has the potential to improve data performance, increase network capacity, and provide longer battery life for wireless users.

Statistics:

  • Sprint PCS has a nationwide wireless network covering nearly 270 million people in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
  • Sprint PCS has over 20 million business and residential customers.
  • The new 3G 1X RTT technology is expected to provide peak data transmission rates up to 10 times faster than currently available.
  • The 3G 1X RTT technology is expected to double the voice capacity.

Sources:

  • "Sprint PCS and Lucent Technologies Demonstrate 3G Wireless Capability" (Source: PRNewswire, July 13)
  • "About Lucent Technologies" (Source: Lucent Technologies)
  • "About Sprint PCS" (Source: Sprint PCS)
  • "About Sprint" (Source: Sprint Corporation)