Alcatel-Lucent Offers Converged RAN for CDMA Networks Migrating to LTE

Alcatel-Lucent says that it has expanded its wireless networking portfolio to inlcude a Converged RAN" (radio access network) which enables mobile service providers to offer both 3G CDMA and LTE services using a common network infrastructure. One of the key elements of the Converged RAN is the software defined radio (SDR) technology which has been available on the current Alcatel-Lucent base stations for a number of years already.

The latest addition to Alcatel-Lucent's Converged RAN portfolio is the Alcatel-Lucent 9238 Base Station Macro, a new platform that relies on the SDR which is integrated with the amplifiers to provide optimal power efficiency. The architecture enables CDMA and/or LTE baseband units to be mixed and matched in the same cabinet to support a variety of technology combinations. Multiple frequencies and frequency combinations will be supported in a single footprint.

The company also noted that through a combination of improved reliability, greatly reduced power consumption -- nearly 75 percent over earlier generations of equipment -- and use of common components to minimize the need for spares, the platform offers an array of cost benefits.

"With the newest additions to our CDMA Converged Base Station portfolio, Alcatel-Lucent has demonstrated once again our unwavering commitment to giving our customers optimum flexibility as they expand and evolve their wireless broadband service offerings," said Sandy Motley, head of Alcatel-Lucent's CDMA/EV-DO activities. "By providing a smooth evolution path to LTE, ensuring maximum re-use of equipment and dramatically reducing energy consumption, we also are helping our customers lower their carbon footprint while at the same time returning cash to their bottom line through reduced operating costs."

Posted to the site on 31st March 2009