Ericsson and AT&T Wireless have completed the first WCDMA/UMTS call in a live network environment in the USA. With initial packet data speeds up to 384 kbps, the call demonstrated true 3G capabilities. The joint effort is part of a trial of the first 1900MHz WCDMA system in the Americas, which will have more than 100 cell sites in the Dallas area by the end of the year. Ericsson is providing the complete WCDMA network -- the core network, the radio access network and mobile terminals. The small-sized Sony Ericsson test units used are based on technology developed by Ericsson Mobile Platforms.
"We will continue moving forward in our quest to provide customers with the most advanced wireless services in the world," said Rod Nelson, chief technology officer for AT&T Wireless. "There is a tremendous level of support by vendors, carriers and developers in bringing true 3G service to the United States."
"It's really exciting to take what we've learned from our laboratory trials and apply those lessons to a live network environment," said Angel Ruiz, president and chief executive officer, Ericsson Inc. "In other parts of the world, we've seen live tests before in the 2 GHz band. But this is a landmark in the development of UMTS/WCDMA in the 1900 MHz frequencies and its progress in the Americas."
Posted to the site on 5th December 2002
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/7983.php