Wireless Network in a Box for Planes

TECORE Wireless Systems says that it has launched FlightCore, an in-flight, all-IP GSM/CDMA wireless communications system for aircraft. The FlightCore system is currently being trialed with a leading airborne operator, and the operations of the system is coordinated with aircraft instrumentation using time, location, altitude and other relevant data in provisioning services to subscribers on-board.

Combining GSM, CDMA, WiFi and IP phone access, FlightCore includes a multi-protocol AirCore SoftMSC (Mobile Switching Center) and base station. Lightweight and compact, an entire GSM network is the size of a briefcase, and combined with CDMA, the network grows to the size of a small suitcase, making them ideal for use on aircraft. Despite the small size, FlightCore provides voice access and full mobile functionality from the subscriber's own handset. Additionally, FlightCore provides a full suite of data access including GPRS/EDGE, 1xRTT/EV-DO and WiFi.

"FlightCore introduces new revenue opportunities for airlines and wireless operators, as well as, provides a cost-effective alternative for subscribers instead of current airborne phones," said Doss McComas, vice president of business development, TECORE Wireless Systems. "Using their own mobile phones, subscribers can access all the latest mobile features and services, including email, Instant Messenger and Internet services."

"FlightCore can also provide local switching and address privacy concerns of flight crews and passengers," continued McComas. "With on-board control of services, the crew can tailor the communication access to the in-flight environment."

TECORE's solution is available now when telecommunications authorities worldwide are finalizing regulations to allow mobile phone and wireless data use while in-flight. The system is ideal for commercial, government, military, or private aircraft and is fully scalable from as few as seven simultaneous calls to hundreds of calls.

"TECORE's solution is also applicable for shipboard networks, including cruise ships, ferries, and merchant, marine and naval vessels," said Shiblie O. Shiblie, chief operating officer, TECORE Wireless Systems. "We will soon announce our ShipCore system, which will provide shipboard communications and interconnect with an operator's infrastructure to provide an extension of the shoreside network, including support for roaming with existing partners."

Posted to the site on 30th June 2005