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1999
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99/1
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99/2
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99/3
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99/4
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99/5
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99/6
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99/7
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99/8
|
99/9
|
99/10
|
99/11/23
|
| DDI-Cellular Group |
421,900
|
460,100
|
541,400
|
714,200
|
922,300
|
1,163,800
|
1,434,100
|
1,714,700
|
1,956,500
|
2,163,200
|
2.32M level
|
| IDO |
•
|
•
|
•
|
78,000
|
141,700
|
215,200
|
296,600
|
369,800
|
449,200
|
578,400
|
680K level
|
| Total Nationwide |
421,900
|
460,100
|
541,400
|
792,200
|
1,064,000
|
1,379,000
|
1,730,700
|
2,084,500
|
2,405,700
|
2,741,600
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3.0M level
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Spread of cdmaOne™ worldwide ·
- Growth of cdmaOne™ subscriber base worldwide The cdmaOne™ system is growing more widespread worldwide. As of the end of this September, the global subscriber base reached 41.14 million users. And by the end of the year, the global base is expected to reach the 5 million subscriber level.
|
97\9
|
97\12
|
98\3
|
98\6
|
98\9
|
98\12
|
99\3
|
99\6
|
99\9
|
|
| Asia-Pacific |
3,350
|
6,300
|
7,100
|
8,760
|
11,200
|
14,900
|
18,000
|
20,806
|
24,824
|
| North America |
900
|
1,500
|
2,000
|
3,230
|
4,500
|
6,800
|
8,800
|
10,613
|
12,913
|
| Other |
125
|
140
|
300
|
1,300
|
1,715
|
2,202
|
3,403
|
||
| Total |
4,250
|
7,800
|
9,225
|
12,130
|
16,000
|
23,000
|
28,515
|
33,622
|
41,140
|
- Net increase between 9/98 and 9/99 Between 9/98 and 9/99 the subscriber base increased by a net 25 million users. Excluding Japan's cdmaOne™, the cellular phone based increased 71% year-to-year, while the worldwide cdmaOne™ subscriber based increased by 214%, showing how steep the growth trend is.
| 9/97 - 9/98 Net Increase | 9/98 - 9/99 Net Increase | Year-to-year | |
| cdmaOne Worldwide | 11,750 | 25,140 | 214% |
| cdmaOne in Japan | 59 (*see note) | 2,347 | |
| Cell phones excluding Japan cdmaOne | 10,400 | 7,398 | 71% |
* The three months 7/98 to 9/98
Source: http://www.cdg.org (As of Nov. 1999)
Motorola Provides 64Kbps High Speed Wireless Internet Access On cdmaOne Networks
Arlington, IL, November 29, 1999 -- Motorola Inc.'s Network Solutions Sector (NSS) said today its high-speed wireless Internet access for its cdmaOne™ networks will be launched commercially for the first time in Japan on Jan. 7, 2000. This capability based on the cdmaOne TIA/EIA-IS-95B standard allows subscribers to access the Internet at speeds up to 64Kbps. The technology currently is being trialed. DDI Corp. and IDO Corp. of Japan are the first operators to deploy this advanced technology from Motorola.
Motorola NSS's high-speed wireless Internet access provides unique advantages for both the wireless operator and the consumer because it is the first to offer packet data implementation that provides the operator with the "dormant mode" feature. This feature ensures the most efficient use of the available radio frequency (RF) spectrum, which means that the consumer benefits by being billed only for the active portion of packet data calls. Dormant mode is the capability for the network to automatically release RF and voice and data traffic channel resources when not in use to transfer data between the subscriber and the network. Besides saving on airtime billing, packet data's dormant mode extends handset battery life.
"Adding to its traditional focus on voice communications, Japan's cellular phone market has become more diverse to include data communications and mail services," said IDO Corp. President Satoshi Nakagawa. "Earlier this year, WAP service was offered, enabling the use of Internet services including easy sending and receiving of email and the browsing of web sites using only the mobile handset. By including packet communications features and WAP capability in all cdmaOne mobile models sold after the launch of packet service, data communications in the mobile environment will become that much more accessible and will serve to stimulate growth in the demand for mobile computing," said Nakagawa.
"The theme of World Telecom '99 in Geneva in October focused on Internet and mobile, and we could say that it symbolized the future trend of the telecommunications market," said Tadashi Onodera, DDI Corp. executive vice president. "For our strategy of mobile, we cannot imagine the future evolution without the combination or harmony with the Internet. Therefore, we have positioned mobile and IP as a basic strategy of DDI group. The mobile of the future will have both audio and visual capability, and it is expected to be developed not only by phone but also portable data equipment. We already adopted the service in accordance with wireless application protocol (WAP), which allows you to utilize the Internet service easily by portable phone over our cdmaOne network.
The 64Kbps high-speed packet data communication service will offer a robust Internet environment. The strategic meaning is huge," said Onodera. The 64Kbps HSPD technology was demonstrated for the first time Oct. 9-17 at World Telecom '99 in Geneva, Switzerland, at both the DDI and Motorola booths.
"Motorola's move into 64Kbps HSPD technology is another demonstration of the company's leadership and commitment to delivering advanced data solutions to our customers," said Ronald Hamma, vice president and general manager of NSS operations in Japan. "These networks combine complex engineering of wireless, IP and applications," said Hamma.
In Japan, which is the fastest growing market for wireless Internet services in the world, millions of subscribers already utilize circuit switched data services. The shift to high-speed packet data with DDI's and IDO's 64Kbps network is expected to accelerate this trend.
High-speed wireless Internet access provides a cost-effective migration path to Third Generation (3G) data services and allows cellular and personal communications services (PCS) operators the opportunity to gain experience and expertise in the IP and wireless data marketplace. A significant number of compelling Internet applications are enabled with access speeds up to 64Kbps. Operators do not need to wait for the deployment of 3G technologies to begin offering 3G data services.
Many leading-edge IP applications can be supported for the first time including: interactive games, web conferencing and thin client computing. Of particular note is that the 64Kbps HSPD network delivers audio streaming with near-CD quality.
"64Kbps data services can be enabled on operators' networks with a software upgrade to the Motorola CDMA wireless network," said John Cipolla, vice president and general manager of Motorola Inc.'s CDMA Systems Division. "The 64Kbps services are made available utilizing idle RF and channel capacity. Operators can offer higher speed data services without affecting the grade of service that they offer to their voice subscribers," said Cipolla.
Motorola NSS's high-speed wireless Internet access utilizes a packet inter-working unit (IWU), developed jointly with 3Com Corporation, that builds on the Circuit Switched IWU platforms that operators have deployed this year. The packet IWU is based on 3Com's Total Control®™ Multiservice Access Platform. "We have been working with Motorola for two years on the CDMA circuit switched data and Quick Net Connect program," said Irfan Ali, senior vice president and general manager, 3Com Carrier Systems Group. "By leveraging this relationship and our expertise in wireless data networking, we were able to quickly develop a cost-effective packet IWU that will enable operators to provide advanced wireless data services," said Ali.
DDI Corp. is the second largest total telecom carrier in Japan. Established in June 1984, DDI Corp. operates eight regional cellular companies that provide cdmaOne services, they also provide TACS and personal Digital Communications (PDC) cellular service. IDO Corp., established in March 1987, offers mobile phone communication services to areas that reach out from the heart of Tokyo and cover much of the central region of Honshu, the principal island of Japan and the nation's most densely populated area.
Motorola NSS deployed its first cellular system, an analog TACS network, in 1989 in Japan for DDI's Kansai Cellular Telephone Co. in the Osaka region. The other seven DDI regions and IDO followed later to provide nationwide coverage. In 1991, Motorola NSS introduced NTACS (Narrowband TACS) into Japan when DDI began NTACS service in Osaka and IDO later launched NTACS service in Tokyo and Nagoya.
In 1993, Motorola NSS began deploying PDC systems for the service provider Tu-Ka at 1.5 GHz in the Tokyo and Tokai regions and at 800 MHz with DDI's Cellular telephone companies. Motorola NSS completed the nationwide buildout of PDC in late 1996.
The massive, nationwide buildout in Japan of a CDMA digital cellular communications network was completed earlier this year with the scheduled commercial launch of state-of-the-art cellular infrastructure designed, manufactured and installed by Motorola (NSS). The Motorola NSS CDMA network also is known as cdmaOne.
The all-Motorola digital network, owned and operated by DDI and IDO, will offer 98 percent coverage nationally to Japan's 126 million people.
Motorola, Inc. has been operating in Japan since opening its first office in 1962 in Tokyo. Motorola NSS maintains sales, service and engineering support facilities in Japan, as well as a 3G research and development center.
Leap Wireless International Operating Company Unveils New Name, Strategy as SMARTCOM PCS in Chile's Fast Growing Wireless Market; Innovative Offerings, Strengthened Management Team and Enhanced Network Bring Mobile Communications to a Broader Audience
San Diego and Santiago, Chile, November 18, 1999 -- Wireless communications carrier Leap Wireless International, Inc. today unveiled the new branding strategy of its Chilean operating company, SMARTCOM PCS (formerly called Chilesat PCS). Since April 1999, when Leap bought out former partner long-distance carrier Telex-Chile, the company has invested significant resources in the venture. Leap has strengthened the management team by appointing Latin American wireless industry leaders to key executive positions and enhanced the capacity of the carrier's nationwide network. Now, as SMARTCOM PCS, the wireless carrier is establishing itself as "the Intelligent Choice" for a broader audience in Chile's fast-growing wireless market. SMARTCOM PCS is dedicated to delivering high-quality wireless service that offers simplicity, value and innovation to Chilean consumers.
"The launch of SMARTCOM PCS marks the culmination of the first phase of Leap's investment in this promising wireless carrier," said Harvey P. White, Leap's chairman and CEO. "SMARTCOM PCS is now well-positioned to capture a broader customer base in Chile's fast-growing wireless market."
"We have concentrated on enhancing our network and developing exciting new products and services with a strong emphasis on customer service," said Alejandro Rojas, CEO of SMARTCOM PCS. "We have listened carefully to what Chilean consumers want, and believe that by providing simple, innovative mobile services we are meeting their needs."
SMARTCOM PCS is the country's first wireless carrier to introduce prepaid service with per-second billing, so customers pay only for their connection time, without rounding off to the next minute. The prepaid service, called SmartBox, allows customers to buy a pre-activated, all-digital phone and control their spending through the purchase of prepaid cards. As the country's only carrier that offers per-second billing, SMARTCOM PCS provides savings to both its prepaid and postpaid customers. In addition, to bring greater value to its customers, SMARTCOM PCS is now the only wireless carrier in the market to eliminate domestic long-distance charges entirely, pricing each call as a local call. SMARTCOM PCS is also introducing the first voice-activated handset in the Chilean market. In response to a simple voice prompt, the handset will automatically and conveniently dial a number for the customer.
SMARTCOM PCS first launched service in September 1998 as Latin America's first nationwide wireless network using Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) digital technology. Wireless penetration in Chile grew to 9.8 percent in June 1999, up from 6.4 percent at the end of 1998 and 2.9 percent at the end of 1997. Since Leap took over full control of the company, it has worked to expand capacity and coverage of its nationwide network, supplied by infrastructure vendor Ericsson, to meet the increasing demand for wireless service. Ericsson provided CDMA radio base station products, CMS 11 base station controllers and deployment and network management services. In addition to the new voice-activated Samsung phone, SMARTCOM PCS also offers two models of digital QUALCOMM phones to its customers, including the lightweight Thin Phone.
Dataquest Increases 1999 U.S. Handset Market Estimate; CDMA Leads Growth
Dataquest's second quarter 1999 review of the U.S. mobile handset market confirmed that the strong first quarter results we reported were not a fluke. Table 1 shows Dataquest's latest results driven out of the second quarter subscriber data and channel checks that we perform each quarter to measure handset sell-through to end users. Based on that primary data collection, Dataquest has increased its 1999 U.S. handset forecast. Table 1 shows the original forecast and compares that data to the new projections.
By technology segment, the largest percentage increase in Dataquest's estimates came in the GSM 1900 space. Primarily, this is in recognition of the fact that operators deploying those networks have finally become competitive in the marketplace. The CDMA segment had the largest raw increase, with 2.9 million handsets added to the Dataquest forecast. With Sony's early and perhaps premature exit from the market, handset vendors with CDMA products are finding demand for their products stronger than ever, while pricing pressures do not appear to be far beyond the expected. TDMA is tracking close to Dataquest's expected values.
Table 1
U.S. Handset Market Update: Revised versus Original Forecast (Thousands of Units)
| Q1/99 Actual | Q2/99 Actual | H1/99 Actual | H2/99 Projection | New 1999 Projection | Original 1999 Forecast | Change (%) | |
| AMPS | 2,022 | 2,297 | 4,319 | 4,642 | 8,961 | 7,802 | 15 |
| TDMA | 2,784 | 3,110 | 5,894 | 7,455 | 13,349 | 12,658 | 5 |
| CDMA | 3,191 | 3,777 | 6,968 | 9,299 | 16,267 | 13,377 | 22 |
| GSM | 1,010 | 1,146 | 2,156 | 2,846 | 5,002 | 3,708 | 35 |
| Total | 9,008 | 10,330 | 19,337 | 24,241 | 43,578 | 37,545 | 16 |
Source: Dataquest (September 1999)
Table 2 shows the percentage change from the 1998 actual handset shipments reported by Dataquest and compared to the 1999 update. AMPS, as a segment, has about half the market share that it commanded in 1998, but it has not declined as quickly as expected given the change noted in Table 1. However, Table 2 clearly illustrates how important a presence in CDMA is to maintain supremacy in the U.S. market: At 37 percent of the market, it is the largest addressable market and is growing rapidly.
Table 2U.S. Handset Market Share Update, 1998 and 1999
| 1998 Share (%) | 1999 Share (%) | |
| AMPS | 40 | 21 |
| TDMA | 28 | 31 |
| CDMA | 23 | 37 |
| GSM | 10 | 11 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
Source: Dataquest (September 1999)
Dataquest Perspective
Vendors with a strong CDMA product offering are most likely to benefit from
the changes in the U.S. handset market noted in this Alert. Motorola has created
momentum in the CDMA space by coming to market with a sound product, while Nokia
has struggled a bit with its tri-band CDMA rollout. Also, Audiovox continues
to impress Dataquest with its unique CDMA sourcing strategy, which is enhancing
its competitiveness in the overall marketplace. Samsung, LG, and Denso, all
with new CDMA products due out in the next few months, are likely to see a surge
in the fourth quarter 1999 timeframe if those products meet expectations.
By Bryan Prohm and Matt Hoffman
According to Dataquest, A GartnerGroup Company, U.S. Digital Mobile Phone Market Growth Continues, but Rising Tide Does Not Lift All Boats
November 17, 1999 -- Dataquest's second quarter 1999 review of the U.S. mobile handset market illuminates several significant developments that are transforming the current industry landscape. First and foremost, the increasing pace of the digitalization of the U.S. subscriber base is becoming more evident. Digital subscribers comprised more than 35 percent of the installed base at the end of the second quarter, while digital handsets accounted for almost 78 percent of the quarter's sales to end users.
The most important highlight within the digital space this quarter continues to be the tremendous growth of code-division multiple access (CDMA IS-95). CDMA is now not merely the top-selling handset in the U.S. market, it is actually increasing the distance between itself and its competitors (see Table 1). Moreover, CDMA subscribers are positioned to surpass TDMA subscribers to become the largest digital subscriber segment of the U.S. market before the end of the year.
Table 1U.S. Digital Mobile Handset Market by Technology
| Technology | 1998 Share (%) | Q1/99 Share (%) | Q2/99 Share (%) |
| CDMA | 38.0 | 45.7 | 47.0 |
| TDMA | 46.1 | 39.9 | 38.7 |
| GSM | 15.9 | 14.5 | 14.3 |
| Total | 100.0 | 100 | 100.0 |
Source: Dataquest (September 1999)
The growth of the U.S. CDMA market continues to play havoc with the market share fortunes of the industry's traditional Big Three handset manufacturers-Ericsson, Motorola, and Nokia. For example, Nokia's continued weak share position in CDMA has prevented it from completely running away with the U.S. market. Meanwhile, Motorola's successful CDMA portfolio helped it surpass Ericsson during the second quarter to capture third place in U. S. digital handset share. Ericsson, which currently does not offer a CDMA product, fell to fourth in digital share (see Table 2).
Table 2U.S. Digital Handset Market Share by Company, Second Quarter 1999
| Company | Q2/99 Share (%) |
| Nokia | 33.1 |
| QUALCOMM | 16.0 |
| Motorola | 14.1 |
| Ericsson | 12.3 |
| Audiovox | 7.8 |
| Samsung | 6.0 |
| Sony | 2.9 |
| LG | 2.6 |
| Mitsubishi | 2.1 |
| Others | 3.1 |
| Total | 100.0 |
Source: Dataquest (September 1999)
Buoyed by its leading market position in CDMA, QUALCOMM increased its digital share again during the second quarter to maintain the No. 3 spot in the overall handset market. The most intriguing market share development during the second quarter is the emergence of Audiovox as a legitimate challenger to the elite group of U.S. market handset suppliers. Propelled by its strong CDMA market share, Audiovox rode the rising tide of CDMA past Ericsson into fourth place in overall market share during the quarter (see Table 3).
Table 3
U.S. Overall Handset Market Share by Company, Second Quarter 1999
| Company | Q2/99 Share (%) |
| Nokia | 31.7 |
| Motorola | 22.4 |
| QUALCOMM | 12.2 |
| Audiovox | 10.3 |
| Ericsson | 10.2 |
| Samsung | 4.6 |
| Sony | 2.3 |
| LG | 2.0 |
| Others | 4.3 |
| Total | 100.0 |
By Bryan Prohm
LSI Logic Delivers Total CDMA Baseband Solution to Denso Corporation for Wireless Handsets LSI Logic's CDMA Baseband Processor Chip Certified By Japanese Carriers
Milpitas, Calif., November 17, 1999 -- In a move providing CDMA wireless equipment manufacturers greater flexibility and choice, LSI Logic Corporation today announced that its single chip CDMA baseband processor has been approved by system operators for use in the Japanese market. The approval was granted as a result of LSI Logic's CDMA baseband processor design used in Denso Corporation's IS-95B/T53 CDMA wireless handset in Japan.
"Our working partnership with Denso Corporation validates our comprehensive CDMA solution," said Danny Biran, vice president and general manager of the Wireless Products Division at LSI Logic. "By bringing this highly integrated solution to market in record time, we have achieved a significant milestone in the wireless industry that is vital to the future of advanced CDMA equipment. LSI Logic has now proven that CDMA handset manufacturers are able to add more features using less power and less space than previous CDMA chipset solutions."
LSI Logic's IS-95B compliant CDMA baseband processor solution integrates an ARM7 TDMI® based microprocessor, two OAKDSPCore® digital signal processors, mixed-signal circuitry and standard cell logic onto a single CMOS chip. Developed around LSI Logic's CoreWare® design program, this integrated solution is the ideal platform for use in CDMA based wireless phones, wireless-data enabled devices, wireless modems and other portable hand-held wireless devices where size, power consumption and cost are critical to the success of the end system.
This total CDMA baseband processor solution will allow LSI Logic to address the fast growing worldwide mobile handset market which, according to Morgan Stanley's Global Handset Market Report, will see unit shipment growth attaining 254 million units this year and will reach over 1 billion units by 2003. This growth will be led by CDMA and third generation technologies.
The Complete CDMA Solution
In addition to supporting the IS-95B and T53 standards, the solution includes
115.2kbps data services allowing users to have access to the Internet with browsing
and e-mail capabilities. LSI Logic's complete CDMA solution includes a set of
software deliverables, including a DSP operating system, hardware drivers, vocoders
and algorithms and an IS-95B protocol stack that includes source code. Designers
can also take advantage of LSI Logic's Engineering Test System (ETS) diagnostic
software and third-party design verification tool software.
To assist customers in accelerating product development, LSI Logic used its wireless expertise to implement an RF reference design, along with an extensive customer training program. The training program includes complete hands-on development-system training and chip and system level documentation. LSI Logic's product application engineering team is available to leverage its extensive experience with wireless system, software & ASIC design to support customers with their CDMA handset developments.
Additional design aids include a CDMA development system that provides a complete hardware and software development environment allowing designers to monitor all critical signals in the CDMA chip. LSI Logic also reduces time to market by providing customers with a low-risk development path using an initial RAM-based architecture. The RAM-based chip allows designers to verify product features for validation before moving towards volume production with a pin and package compatible ROM-based chip. "LSI Logic's system-on-a-chip expertise is allowing customers like Denso to integrate more performance and functionality onto a smaller footprint," said Greg Helton, director of wireless products at LSI Logic. "The result is a fully integrated, compact, low-power handset compatible with Japanese CDMA networks."
LSI Logic's certified CDMA solution provides customers with the technology to produce a phone with excess of 150 hours of active standby time, over two hours of talk time and Internet browsing capability. Denso is shipping phones, based on LSI Logic's CDMA solution, in volume. The Denso phones offer Japanese consumers a compact (80 cc) and lightweight (87 g) handset.
LSI Logic announced its single-chip CDMA baseband Processor Solution at CTIA '99 in February of this year. To view this announcement, please refer to LSI Logic's news section on their website at http://www.lsilogic.com/news/nwsreleases/pr0139.html.
Motorola's StarTAC(R), Timeport(TM) and Talkabout(R) Dual-Band Phones And Sprint's Nationwide Network Make it Easy to Connect to the Wireless Web
Kansas City, MO, November 15, 1999 -- Sprint PCS and Motorola today announced the availability of Motorola's new digital StarTACST7867 dual-band Sprint PCS Phone. Later this month Sprint PCS will be completing its full line of new dual-band, digital CDMA wireless phones by Motorola with the addition of the Motorola Timeport P8167 and the Motorola Talkabout T8167 phones. These new phones allow access to the voice clarity ofSprint PCS plus access to Sprint PCS Wireless Web services. The phones feature TrueSync technology software along with a host of other exciting new features on the Sprint PCS 100-percent digital, 100-percent PCS nationwide wireless network.
"We're pleased to add Motorola's advanced dual-band CDMA phones to our expanding line of web-capable wireless phones," said Charles Levine, chief sales and marketing officer for Sprint PCS. "With Motorola's new dual-band phones coupled with the connectivity of the Sprint PCS Wireless Web, users are able to conduct online trading with Ameritrade, access flight information, stock quotes and weather updates while on our nationwide wireless network."
"Sprint PCS and Motorola are working together to fill a need in the lives of the global customer," said Frank Myers, vice president and general manager of North America for Motorola's Personal Communications Sector. "The future of telecommunications depends upon an alliance of excellence in design, technology, and connectivity -- combined these forces are raising the standards of efficiency. A web without wires, 100-percent digital capability and a complementary network of service are indispensable elements in the lives of consumers and businesses everywhere."
All three phones offer the enhanced phone book, 9 ringer options, built-in headset jack and Motorola's exclusive EL backlighting which gives the display a blue-green iridescent look for easy readability. In digital mode, the phones can provide up to 4.2 hours of talk time* or up to 170 hours of stand-by time* with its extended Lithium Ion battery. All three phones are packaged with an extended Lithium Ion battery and AC adapter.
The new StarTAC dual-band ST7867 phone is immediately available for$229.99 at Sprint PCS Centers, RadioShack stores and other retailers in the Sprint PCS nationwide wireless network. Weighing only 4.2 ounces, the ST7867is the lightest dual-band in the Sprint PCS product line-up.
The Motorola Timeport phone is available in a slim and striking platinum-burnished design. In the same sleek, platinum styling, the Motorola Timeport Clip-On Organizer offers a host of solutions with convenient organization tools such as a calendar, contacts, to-do list and memos. The phone boasts a compact form factor and weighs only 4.5 ounces. The Motorola Timeport will be available in November for $299.99 and includes the Sprint PCS Wireless Web Dialer Software CD, data cable and Truesync(R) software in addition to its standard packaging. The phone will be available at Sprint PCS Centers, RadioShack stores and other retailers in the Sprint PCS nationwide wireless network.
The Motorola Talkabout phone features interchangeable battery covers in stylish colors (Ice Blue, Cactus Green, Candy Red, Stone Gray and MidnightBlue available directly from Motorola) allowing personalization in concert with the latest digital technology. Weighing only 4.8 ounces including the extended Lithium Ion battery, this conveniently compact phone will be available in November for $249.99 and includes the Ice Blue and Stone Gray interchangeable battery covers in addition to its standard packaging.
Clearnet PCS brings digital wireless competition, choice and affordability to Halifax
Halifax, November 15, 1999 -- Clearnet Communications Inc. today launched digital Clearnet PCS service in Halifax, offering Haligonians all the powerful benefits of affordable digital wireless while introducing real competition and choice to the Halifax communications market.
"The launch of Clearnet PCS in Halifax introduces a fast-growing city to a fast-growing digital communications service that is priced affordably and sold fairly," said George Cope, Clearnet's President and CEO. "Consumers across Canada have benefited from Clearnet PCS and its unique Future Friendly approach to wireless. We're eager to compete in the Halifax market with both new digital products and a new way of doing business."
Clearnet PCS demands none of the long-term binding contracts, activation fees or per-minute billing associated with traditional wireless, and is the only wireless service in Canada that bills all calls by the second from the first second. And with unlimited local calling options, many clients will find Clearnet PCS a viable replacement for the landline phone in their home.
Clearnet PCS offers Halifax clients the power of digital wireless - greatly improved call clarity, call security, enhanced battery life, affordable per-second airtime billing and new digital services such as caller ID and e-mail to the phone. Yet Clearnet PCS phones actually work everywhere that traditional cellular phones do both in Nova Scotia and across Canada. Clearnet's unique dual-mode PCS phones operate as digital phones in Clearnet's nationwide digital service areas and as analogue cellular phones in the rest of Clearnet's national service area, which covers 94 per cent of the Canadian population. The Clearnet PCS Halifax digital service area covers Halifax, Bedford, Dartmouth, Uplands Park and the airport, with Nova Scotia expansion planned throughout 2000. Digital Clearnet PCS service is also offered in Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton, St. Catharines, Toronto, Windsor, Guelph, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo, London, Niagara Falls, Oshawa, Ottawa-Hull, Montréal, Sherbrooke and Québec City. With the addition of Halifax, POPs covered by Clearnet PCS (the number of people residing in a Clearnet coverage area with digital Clearnet PCS service) have increased by approximately 200,000 to total approximately 14.9 million.
"Halifax is a hard-working city where people can truly benefit from the freedom of mobile communications. We think their digital phones should work just as hard as they do," said Wade Oosterman, Clearnet's Vice President, Sales & Marketing. "We think many Haligonians will find Clearnet's home-phone replacement service options so attractive that they will cut the ties to the phone in their home and go completely wireless."
Clearnet PCS is also as easy to use across the United States as it is across Canada. Clearnet's fixed-rate, automatic US roaming service offers billing by the second in Canadian dollars. Clearnet PCS phones and accessories are available in Halifax at retail outlets operated by Blockbuster, Business Depot, Compucentre, Electronics Boutique, Future Shop, Toys R Us, Walmart, and Zellers, as well as at the Clearnet kiosk in Mic Mac Mall. Clients can order Clearnet PCS directly from either the Clearnet Web Store, a secure and direct online system available at http://www.clearnet.com, or by calling 1-888-CLEARNET.
Roberts Wireless Communications, A Sprint PCS Network Partner, Awards Lucent Technologies $32 MILLION Contract for Network Build Out
St. Louis, MO, November 10, 1999 -- Roberts Wireless Communications and Lucent Technologies today announced a three-year $32 million supply contract to enable the wireless carrier to build and operate a PCS (Personal Communication Services) network throughout Missouri as a Network Partner of Sprint PCS.
Roberts Wireless Communications' all-digital wireless network will be based upon Sprint PCS' all-digital, all-PCS nationwide network built on the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) standard.
The Sprint PCS Service Area managed locally by Roberts Wireless encompasses 14 Basic Trading Areas (BTAs), including the entire state of Missouri-except the St. Louis and Kansas City metropolitan areas-and the southern tip of Illinois, the southeast corner of Kansas and the northeast corner of Oklahoma.
"With the help of Lucent Technologies, we will bring 21st century telephone and Internet communications to rural Missouri and many bordering communities as well as to Sprint PCS customers who work, live and travel throughout these areas," said Mike Roberts, chairman and CEO of Roberts Wireless. "Lucent is the premier supplier of wireless networks in the U.S. and its experience in rapid deployment will help us meet our very aggressive launch plans."
"Our affiliate partners benefit from the strength of the Sprint brand while extending the reach of our network," said Tom Mateer, vice-president of affiliates for Sprint PCS. "We look forward to Roberts Wireless offering the same high degree of value, call clarity, connectivity and nationwide coverage that Sprint PCS provides to its customer base."
Roberts Wireless will buildout and manage Sprint PCS Service in the Missouri cities of Columbia, Jefferson City, St. Joseph, Sedalia, Lake of the Ozarks, Springfield, and Joplin; Pittsburgh, Kan.; and Miami, Okla., with service launch expected in early 2000. By mid-2000, Roberts Wireless will be offering Sprint PCS Service to Rolla, Cape Girardeau, Poplar Bluff, Sikeston, Hannibal, and Kirksville, Mo., as well as Carbondale and Quincy, Ill.
Under the contract, Lucent will provide the switching hardware and software as well as radio hardware and software needed to build the CDMA-based wireless network. This equipment includes the Lucent's 5ESSÒ Switch, the industry's most reliable switching system according to independent data.
"We are delighted that Roberts Wireless has selected Lucent to help build its wireless network," said Charlie Vogt, Lucent Technologies senior vice president-Sprint Customer Team. "With Lucent's experience and expertise in building CDMA PCS networks, we look forward to demonstrating our ability to meet the quality, reliability and delivery requirements of Roberts Wireless and Sprint PCS."
AirTouch Launches All-Digital Mobile Internet Service
Spokane, WA, November 9, 1999 -- AirTouch Cellular today launched Net Access, an all-digital service that lets travelers and mobile workers in Spokane and North Idaho cut the tether to their desktops and access the Internet, online services or corporate networks while on the go.
Armed with a laptop computer and a data-ready AirTouch digital phone, customers in Spokane and North Idaho now can enjoy the freedom and convenience of Net Access -- one of the fastest and most convenient wireless information services offered by a major U.S. wireless carrier.
AirTouch was the first major digital CDMA carrier to launch commercial wireless Internet service in the United States, beginning this July in Seattle, Salt Lake City and Detroit. Net Access also was recently launched in Columbus, Ohio and Portland, Oregon. AirTouch plans to roll the service out to its entire wireless footprint by first quarter 2000, and to cover the nation through roaming agreements with other carriers in the same period.
Users at airports, client sites or even the beach now can send and receive e-mail, files and faxes; access their company's intranet; update contacts and schedules; and use the Internet to check a customer's Web site, monitor news and stock prices and review airline schedules -- all without having to plug into a telephone line. "In today's fast-paced world, Net Access will help you stay in touch, manage information more productively and balance your life," said Robert Duron, branch manager for AirTouch in Spokane. "It promises to be as revolutionary for personal information access and management as cellular was for voice communications."
Net Access is the first of several planned Mobile Internet offerings from AirTouch. Products coming soon will include wireless portal services that work with handheld smart phones and personal digital assistants to facilitate a variety of mobile messaging, information and e-commerce services.
Unlike previous wireless data access services, Net Access doesn't require an expensive wireless modem. It works with new data-ready digital phones such as the sleek, lightweight and inexpensive Qualcomm 860 Thin Phone. The phone, connected to your laptop with a simple serial cable (available from AirTouch), is all you need -- the service requires no other hardware or special software.
Net Access provides a speedier and much more reliable connection than older analog-based wireless services and is more than adequate for text-based applications such as e-mail or most Web browsing.
In addition, Net Access connects you directly to the Internet exceptionally fast -- typically in less than 10 seconds compared to as much as 30 seconds for dial-up access from your desktop.
"With its promise of broad geographic coverage, Net Access will be an invaluable tool for many professionals and business people who can't afford to wait to access vital information," said Andrew Seybold, mobile communications analyst and publisher of Andrew Seybold's Outlook. "The service is affordable, easy to use, and will set customers free from the tether of telephone lines while they're on the go."
The service is priced for now at the same airtime rates as voice communications. While connected to Net Access, customers can use the minutes they already have in their monthly bundle. The Qualcomm 860 is available through AirTouch retailers in Spokane for $129.
Bell Atlantic Introduces New, Simple Choice for Wireless Internet, E-Mail Access; Brings the Web to Consumers' Fingertips On New Digital Wireless Phones
Bedminister, NJ, November 8, 1999 -- Bell Atlantic Mobile next week will deliver the World Wide Web into the hands of consumers and mobile professionals with the introduction of easy-to-use wireless access to the Internet. On November 17, the company will launch Web Access in all of its East Coast markets, featuring Web-enabled digital wireless phones that have built-in modems so customers can surf the Web, send and receive e-mail, get real-time stock market analysis and quotes, and set up customized personal Web pages.
For just $9.95 a month, in addition to their digital voice price plans, Web Access customers also gain interactive wireless connectivity to Web-based content providers on demand, like on-line travel information and reservations, real-time airline flight status reports, and door-to-door travel directions. Web Access Microbrowser provides a lightning-quick connection to the Internet, at least five times faster than the standard landline modem.
Web Access Microbrowser customers will also benefit from a wireless personal organizer, and access to more than 20 leading content providers, including:
- TheTrip.com - the on-line source for travel and flight reservations, real-time flight tracking, designed for mobile professionals and business travelers
- Bloomberg - the latest business news, stock quotes, financial data and company profiles from 75 news bureaus worldwide
- WhoWhere? - the leading Web directory with nearly 100 million listings
- AccuWeather - customized weather forecasts and updates from around the globe
Denny Strigl, president and CEO of Bell Atlantic Global Wireless, plans to discuss the company's Web Access rollout this afternoon at The Yankee Group's 7th Annual Wireless Mobile Conference, "Mobile.Net: The Next Generation of Wireless" in Manhattan.
"We're offering the mass consumer market a simple and inexpensive way of connecting to the Internet and e-mail wirelessly, using the same digital handset they use for wireless voice service," said Strigl. "When you combine Web Access' ease of use, mobility and comprehensive content with the American appetite for e-mail and the Internet, it's clear why Bell Atlantic Mobile expects this service to increase mainstream demand for wireless data services."
With 40 million mobile professionals in the U.S. requiring constant access to e-mail, corporate intranets and inventory, and various on-line services, wireless data is a market the Yankee Group predicts will grow from $1.8 billion this year to $13.2 billion by 2003.
HOW TO GET CONNECTED
Bell Atlantic Mobile customers can sign on for Web Access for just $9.95 a month
on top of their DigitalChoiceÒ voice price plans, which begin as low as $19.99
a month. Customers will simply share the monthly bundle of access minutes between
their voice and data service. Unlike some competitors' offers, which penalize
customers for combining voice and data usage by offering smaller minute bundles
than their voice-only customers get, Bell Atlantic Mobile makes it easy by offering
one set of plans that cater to both voice and data usage.
Equipped with a Qualcomm 860 digital phone featuring a built-in microbrowser, customers can access the aforementioned Internet sites that have been specially formatted for wireless phone screens. The phone will be available next week starting at $119.99, about one quarter the cost of some competitors' phone offerings for wireless Internet access. Next month, the company plans to offer additional Web-enabled phones, including the Qualcomm PDQ 800, which has a built-in personal digital assistant, and the Motorola StarTac 7860.
For customers who prefer to use a laptop for full Web browsing complete with color and graphics, a connection kit for $79.99 supplies a data cable to connect the phone and a notebook with a full-size screen.
One of the great benefits of Web Access is the personal organizer, which provides customers with a personal web page to update their calendar, address book/contact lists, and bookmarks either from the Web or their wireless phone.
BellSouth's Compañía de Radiocomunicaciones Móviles S.A. and Lucent Technologies sign contract for CDMA wireless network in Argentina
Atlanta, GA, November 3, 1999 -- Compañía de Radiocomunicaciones Móviles S.A., a subsidiary of Atlanta-based BellSouth-which provides communications services in Argentina under the brand Movicom/BellSouth-and Lucent Technologies (NYSE: LU) have signed a three-year contract to deploy a wireless network in Argentina. Movicom/BellSouth - which is 65 percent owned by BellSouth-plans to build a CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) wireless network throughout the interior of Argentina. The new network will allow Movicom/BellSouth, which already provides wireless communications service in metropolitan Buenos Aires, to extend service to the rest of Argentina. The network will be based on Flexent(tm), Lucent's wireless network architecture, and is expected to include several hundred Lucent cell sites and Lucent's 5ESS-2000® Switches.
"Movicom/BellSouth is already the market leader for wireless telephony in Buenos Aires. This new network will extend our leadership in the mobile telephony market throughout Argentina while also providing a platform for new services such as long distance," said Mauricio Wior, president of Movicom/BellSouth and executive vice president of BellSouth International for Southern Cone Latin America.
"The Flexent network is our next-generation architecture that will protect Movicom/BellSouth's investment into the next century," said Carole Spurrier, vice president - North America for Lucent Technologies. "Our CDMA wireless network technology will support the greater capacity and improved data rates required to meet the demands of Movicom/BellSouth's customers." Lucent has built more than 160 CDMA networks around the world - including systems in Canada, China, Thailand, South Korea, the Philippines and Indonesia - for 26 different customers.
In the Caribbean and Latin America regions, Lucent is building CDMA networks in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, Guatemala, El Salvador, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. In North America, Lucent has installed more than half the CDMA systems in the United States, covering 80 percent of the population. More than 16 million wireless calls per day travel over Lucent's CDMA wireless network systems.
Sprint First in U.S. to Offer New Sanyo Dual-Band Wireless Phone With Web Minibrowser; Sprint PCS SCP-4000 Phone by Sanyo Equipped with Multi-Functional Navigation Key for Easy Menu Selection
Kansas City, MO, November 2, 1999 -- Sprint and Sanyo Fisher Company today announced the nationwide availability of the Sprint PCS SCP-4000 dual-band, Internet-ready Sprint PCS Phone by Sanyo. The compact Sprint PCS SCP-4000 phone offers customers access to the Sprint PCS Wireless Web via an integral Web MiniBrowser. For unmatched ease of use, the phone features a multi-function navigation key employing the same menu-driven Sprint PCS Touchpoint(TM) user interface for simplified, one-handed operation of nearly all phone functions. The phone is available at Sprint PCS Centers, RadioShack stores and other retailers for $179.99 in the Sprint PCS nationwide wireless network.
"The Sprint PCS SCP-4000 by Sanyo is a leading edge phone with a multitude of well-designed features that will appeal to Sprint PCS customers who want to take full advantage of both clear voice calling and the full range of new data services available on the Sprint PCS Wireless Web," said Charles Levine, chief sales and marketing officer for Sprint PCS. "We fully expect that this high performance phone will be a big hit with business users and consumers alike, offering both easy Sprint PCS Wireless Web access and full mobile connectivity on our nationwide network."
"The creation of the SCP-4000 emanated from the collaborative efforts of Sanyo and Sprint PCS," said Isaac Levy, vice president, Sales and Marketing for Sanyo Fisher Company's Communications/Information Technology Division. "This advanced new phone meets consumer expectations for the high level of performance associated with Sprint PCS' all-digital, all-PCS national wireless network. It also offers a versatile dual-band design in a significantly reduced form factor incorporating unprecedented multi-functionality without sacrificing ease of use."
The Sprint PCS SCP-4000's MiniBrowser facilitates easy access to a growing number of specially designed Web sites, including wireless versions of such popular destinations as Yahoo!, CNN and The Weather Channel via the Sprint PCS Wireless Web. With the optional Sprint PCS Wireless Web Connection Kit, which includes a data cable and the Sprint PCS Dialer Software, the Sprint PCS SCP-4000 can be used in place of a computer modem. Connected to a laptop computer, personal digital assistant (PDA) or any handheld computing device, it's easy to browse the Internet, send and receive e-mail via your home or office's e-mail server, and access Web-based e-mail with the Sprint PCS Wireless Web Connection.
Additional key features include: a large, easy-to-read Clearglo(TM) blue backlit EL (electro luminescent) high-resolution display featuring five alphanumeric lines plus one line of icons; a vibrating ringer; 10 ringer options (five tones, five melodies); one-touch message access; 300-number internal phone book with rapid search (providing up to seven phone numbers per listing); one-touch speed dialing; 10-number calls list (indicates last 10 incoming, 10 outgoing and 10 missed calls); Caller ID; security lock to prevent unauthorized calls; any-key answer; built-in calculator; fun, included "Crab Catch" game; convenient 2.5mm headset/earphone jack; and charger circuitry in handset.
Weighing only 4.7 ounces with its included standard lithium ion battery, the Sprint PCS SCP-4000 by Sanyo is a uniquely compact dual-band phone. In digital mode, it offers up to three hours of talk time and 120 hours of standby time with its standard battery. An optional extended battery provides up to five hours of talk time and 200 hours of standby time.
Following the recent success of the Sprint PCS SCP-3000 dual-band phone, the new Sprint PCS SCP-4000 by Sanyo is the premier phone to be debuted as part of an approximate $140 million agreement between Sprint PCS and Sanyo, which was announced on September 23.
Vendor News
Repeater Technologies Introduces New Products
San Francisco, November 30, 1999 -- Repeater Technologies here today announces two new product lines -- OfficeCell(TM) and RepeaterLink(TM) -- and feature enhancements to the OA850C and OA1900C Network Repeaters(TM). In addition, the company unveils its plans for 3G products.
The first new product line is the OfficeCell distributed antenna system (DAS). OfficeCell utilizes single-mode fiber to distribute RF energy within a building structure for cellular and PCS carriers. As many as 16 remotes can be driven from one centralized hub unit. OfficeCell features easy-to-install single-mode fiber with quick connect connectors and high output power -- 12 dBm for CDMA. In addition, all remote units as well as the hub will be interfaced with RepeaterNet(TM) network management system (NMS) for remote monitoring and control of all active elements in the network. Deliveries will be available in early 2000.
RepeaterLink will allow Repeater Technologies Over-the-Air Network Repeaters to be converted to Fiber-Linked Network Repeaters for both the 850 MHz and 1900 MHz bands. This gives an operator the ability to use fiber to remote the RF of a base station as far as 20 km away. RepeaterLink uses a single-mode fiber with full duplex operation. Deliveries will be available in early 2000.
Both the OA850C and 1900C Network Repeaters will have their output power boosted FROM 6.3 watts to 7 watts per carrier. These repeaters are the only repeaters offering 7 watts each per carrier for two carriers featuring the company's proprietary receive diversity. Deliveries will be available in early 2000. Repeater Technologies' current repeaters are compatible with cdmaOne and CDMA2000 Phase 1 or what is known as 1XRTT. In addition, Repeater Technologies is announcing its next-generation high-powered repeaters with diversity called RepeaterCell(TM).
RepeaterCells will be compatible with multicarrier cdmaOne and CDMA2000 (1XRTT and 3XRTT) networks at both 850 MHz and 1900 MHz and W-CDMA at 2100 MHz. RepeaterCell will have an over-the-air interface and a fiber-linked interface via RepeaterLink. Of course, remote monitoring and control will be available with the company's industry-leading RepeaterNet NMS. Delivery will be available in the second half of 2000. "We are expanding on our success in outdoor coverage with our innovative RepeaterHybrid(TM) Network technology into the in-building market," said Ken Kenitzer, chief executive officer and president of Repeater Technologies. "OfficeCell is the first in-building coverage solution that allows all active elements to be remotely monitored. We believe this will become an important feature as in-building coverage becomes predominant. We are also expanding our coverage solutions with our RepeaterLink fiber interface and our next-generation RepeaterCell for 3G. We believe these moves will continue to make us the industry leader in `Perfecting Wireless Coverage Worldwide.'"
Repeater Technologies is leading a global build-out trend with more than 50 CDMA carriers across five continents worldwide deploying its repeaters to economically expand network coverage.
Repeater Technologies is a total repeater solutions provider, which includes over-the-air Network Repeaters(TM) and RepeaterCell(TM), RepeaterStar(TM) antennas, RepeaterLink(TM) fiber optic interface, OfficeCell(TM) Fiber optic distributed antenna systems, RepeaterNet(TM) network management software and RepeaterCAD(TM), a complete network design and RF engineering services offering. The company invented the diversity option for over-the-air CDMA repeaters with a patent now pending and invented and patented linked repeaters. Repeater Technologies offers a broad range of outdoor and in-building coverage solutions and services including its RepeaterHybrid(TM) Network technology, which allows carriers to greatly reduce their infrastructure costs in low-density/low-capacity coverage areas.
Repeater Technologies currently supports over 400 customers in 60 countries on six continents for the AMPS, CDMA and TDMA standards in cellular, PCS, wireless local loop and in-building wireless networks. For more information, visit Repeater Technologies' Web site at http://www.repeaters.com .
Repeater Technologies Lands $3 Million Purchase Order for the World's Largest RepeaterHybrid Network With Midwest PCS
San Francisco, November 30, 1999 -- Repeater Technologies today announces that Midwest PCS will construct the world's largest RepeaterHybrid Network(TM).
Midwest PCS will deploy hundreds of repeaters to satisfy coverage requirements over its 12 BTAs, which include the state of Minnesota and the eastern one-third of North Dakota. The purchase order is more than $3 million, and deployment is scheduled for completion early in 2001. Under terms of the recently signed contract, Repeater Technologies will serve as the network provider of the OA1900C Network Repeaters with diversity, RepeaterNet(TM) network management system and RepeaterCAD(TM) RF engineering design and optimization services.
"We are embarking on a 12 BTA PCS buildout with CDMA RepeaterHybrid Network Technology, and in doing so, we are saving significantly on network deployment costs," said William O. Casto, Midwest PCS president and chief executive officer. "The use of Repeater Technologies' solutions will allow us to achieve the largest footprint covering over 1,500 miles of highways.
"This contract represents the continuing value that PCS carriers in low-density, low-capacity markets are placing on RHNs," said Ken Kenitzer, Repeater Technologies' CEO and president. "We are excited to be building the largest RHN to date and with the confidence that Midwest PCS has placed in our products, services and the company as a whole." Repeater Technologies is leading a global build-out trend with more than 50 CDMA carriers across five continents worldwide deploying its repeaters to economically expand network coverage.
Midwest PCS is the CDMA PCS operator for 12 BTAs in Minnesota and eastern North Dakota. The cities of Duluth, Fargo, Grand Forks, Rochester and St. Cloud are included, which cover 2.6 million POPS. Repeater Technologies is a total repeater solutions provider, which includes over-the-air and linked Network Repeaters(TM), RepeaterStar(TM) antennas, RepeaterNet(TM) network management software and RepeaterCAD(TM), a complete network design and RF engineering services offering. The company invented the diversity option for over-the-air CDMA repeaters with a patent now pending and invented and patented linked repeaters. Repeater Technologies offers a broad range of outdoor and in-building coverage solutions and services including its RepeaterHybrid(TM) Network technology, which allows carriers to greatly reduce their infrastructure costs in low-density/low-capacity coverage areas.
Repeater Technologies currently supports over 400 customers in 60 countries on six continents for the AMPS, CDMA and TDMA standards in cellular, PCS, wireless local loop and in-building wireless networks. For more information, visit Repeater Technologies' Web site at http://www.repeaters.com.
Repeater Technologies Secures Agreement Valued At More Than $50 Million
San Francisco, November 30, 1999 -- Repeater Technologies, supplier of RepeaterHybrid(TM) Network (RHN) coverage systems and services, here today announced that it and a major CDMA PCS carrier have signed a three-year master purchase and supply agreement for Repeater Technologies' repeaters, network management software and services to be used in the PCS carrier's all-digital network.
RHN technology provides high-quality, low-cost coverage for PCS low-density/low-capacity suburban and rural markets. Repeater Technologies estimates the contract to be worth $20 million the first year.
This agreement for RHN technology includes Repeater Technologies new advanced Network Repeater(TM) -- the OA1900C NR. As a new generation repeater, the OA1900C NR constitutes the first and only CDMA repeater offering two channels of 7 watts of output power and featuring patent-pending receive diversity. Field data shows that receive diversity improves the RFER for a high-quality signal, provides 3 dB more link budget for further range and extends the battery talk-time for the subscriber.
In addition, this contract covers the most advanced network management software system for repeaters -- RepeaterNet(TM), giving this PCS carrier the ability to monitor and access all of its repeaters from a central control center with a user-friendly graphical interface. The agreement includes the integration into PCS carrier's National Operations Center (NOC) to monitor all Network Repeaters(TM) in the network.
"We are pleased that this major PCS carrier recognizes the benefits of our patent-pending diversity repeater, our network management system and our design support services," according to Ken Kenitzer, Repeater Technologies chief executive officer and president. "We are looking forward to a long-term relationship as we support them in the build out of their network."
Repeater Technologies is leading a global build-out trend with more than 50 CDMA carriers across five continents worldwide deploying its repeaters to economically expand network coverage. Repeater Technologies is a total repeater solutions provider, which includes over-the-air and linked Network Repeaters(TM), RepeaterStar(TM) antennas, RepeaterNet(TM) network management software and RepeaterCAD(TM), a complete network design and RF engineering services offering. The company invented the diversity option for over-the-air CDMA repeaters with a patent now pending and invented and patented linked repeaters. Repeater Technologies offers a broad range of outdoor and in-building coverage solutions and services including its RepeaterHybrid(TM) Network technology, which allows carriers to greatly reduce their infrastructure costs in low-density/low-capacity coverage areas.
Repeater Technologies currently supports over 400 customers in 60 countries on six continents for the AMPS, CDMA and TDMA standards in cellular, PCS, wireless local loop and in-building wireless networks. For more information, visit Repeater Technologies' Web site at http://www.repeaters.com.
Repeater Technologies to Supply RM3 Repeater Packages To RCS Wireless
San Francisco, November 30, 1999 -- Repeater Technologies here today announces a purchase order from RCS Wireless in Roseville, Calif., for the first wide-scale deployment of the company's unique RM3 repeater packages.
RCS Wireless will utilize Repeater Technologies' patent-pending RM3 interface packages in conjunction with two OA1900C Network Repeaters(TM) and one microcell, which will enable each microcell to achieve 3-sector macrocell-like coverage. The RM3 site configuration provides 85 percent more coverage than an omnidirectional antenna on a microcell. The RM3 allows carriers to serve large coverage areas with modest traffic requirements and is especially useful in areas with limited tower heights. Remote monitoring will be provided via Repeater Technologies' RepeaterNet(TM) network management system.
"Our top priority right now is providing the best possible coverage for our customers. The RM3 solution from Repeater Technologies allows us to quickly add coverage in a more cost-effective fashion than the traditional BTS approach," said Bob Burger, general manager of RCS Wireless. "We can always go back and add more capacity when it is needed."
"We are glad that RCS Wireless recognizes the value of our newest tool in our expanding arsenal of network elements for RepeaterHybrid(TM) Network technology to reduce network costs," stated Ken Kenitzer, president and chief executive officer of Repeater Technologies. "This is just one more example of the way Repeater Technologies is working with the CDMA carrier community to provide capacity efficient coverage." RCS Wireless, a subsidiary of Roseville Communications Co., operates using four licenses obtained by RCC in the E-Block personal communications services auctions. The licenses cover the Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto and Yuba City, Calif., basic trading areas, reaching into 16 counties to serve a potential 3.5 million POPs. To learn more, visit RCS Wireless' Web site at http://www.rcswireless.com.
Repeater Technologies is leading a global build-out trend with more than 50 CDMA carriers across five continents worldwide deploying its repeaters to economically expand network coverage. Repeater Technologies is a total repeater solutions provider, which includes over-the-air Network Repeaters(TM) and RepeaterCell(TM), RepeaterStar(TM) antennas, RepeaterLink(TM) fiber optic interface, OfficeCell(TM) fiber optic distributed antenna systems, RepeaterNet(TM) network management software and RepeaterCAD(TM), a complete network design and RF engineering services offering. The company invented the diversity option for over-the-air CDMA repeaters with a patent now pending and invented and patented linked repeaters. Repeater Technologies offers a broad range of outdoor and in-building coverage solutions and services including its RepeaterHybrid(TM) Network technology, which allows carriers to greatly reduce their infrastructure costs in low-density/low-capacity coverage areas.
Repeater Technologies currently supports over 400 customers in 60 countries on six continents for the AMPS, CDMA and TDMA standards in cellular, PCS, wireless local loop and in-building wireless networks. For more information, visit Repeater Technologies' Web site at http://www.repeaters.com.
Repeater Technologies Awarded Preferred Status With Major U.S. Carrier; Contract Value Estimated at More Than $15 Million
San Francisco, November 30, 1999 -- Repeater Technologies here today announces it has preferred provider status with a top-tier U.S. PCS carrier.
Under terms of a recently signed three-year contract, Repeater Technologies will serve as the preferred provider of high-power repeaters with diversity, RepeaterNet(TM) network management software and RepeaterCAD(TM) RF engineering design services and tools for use in 10 major U.S. markets. Repeater Technologies estimates the contract to be worth more than $15 million.
Repeater Technologies is able to deliver a total solution that includes repeater products, complete network design and RF engineering, technical training, application support and customer service. This total solution package allows wireless carriers to deploy repeaters effectively, to use RepeaterNet for seamless monitoring of NetworkOperations Centers (NOCs) and to utilize Repeater Technologies' expertise for network design in training engineers.
"RepeaterNet at the NOC gives this major carrier a better means of monitoring performance and network optimization," said Ken Kenitzer, chief executive officer and president of Repeater Technologies. "We are pleased that forward-thinking executives in major markets realize the technical and economical benefits of implementing RepeaterHybrid(TM) Network Technology."
RepeaterHybrid Networks are utilized in non-contiguous suburban, rural and rural highway topologies to reduce wireless infrastructure cost. By deploying networks designed with a combination of base stations and repeaters, base station count can drop. Repeater Technologies is leading a global build-out trend with more than 50 CDMA carriers across five continents worldwide deploying its repeaters to economically expand network coverage. Repeater Technologies offers a comprehensive low-cost coverage solution to today's wireless networks and backs this expertise with network management software and technical support.
Repeater Technologies is a total repeater solution infrastructure provider offering over-the-air and linked Network Repeaters(TM), RepeaterNet network management software and RepeaterCAD RF engineering design services and tools. The company invented the diversity option for over-the-air CDMA repeaters with a patent now pending and invented and patented linked repeaters. The company also developed innovative RepeaterHybrid Network technologies, which allow wireless service operators to deploy highly cost-effective networks. Repeater Technologies currently supports more than 400 customers in 60 countries on six continents for the AMPS, CDMA and TDMA standards in cellular, PCS, wireless local loop and in-building wireless networks. For more information about Repeater Technologies, visit its Web site at http://www.repeaters.com.
Hyundai Licenses Phone.com Up.Browser Microbrowser; Brings Wireless Internet Access to Korean Mobile Phone Users
Redwood City, CA, November 29, 1999 -- Phone.com, Inc. and Hyundai, today announced that HEI has licensed the Phone.com™ UP.Browser™ WAP-compatible microbrowser for use in its CDMA phones. The license agreement enables HEI to embed Phone.com's UP.Browser microbrowser in CDMA phones to be introduced worldwide. HEI plans to commercially ship an exciting new handset in the Korean market within the next thirty days. The UP.Browser will enable HEI mobile users to wirelessly access and interact with Internet and intranet data through wireless carriers who have licensed the Phone.com UP.Link™ server software.
"Phone.com has proven their technical leadership, significant time-to-market advantage and global deployment track record," said Hun Lee, senior vice president of Cellular R&D Center for HEI. "CDMA operators throughout Korea, North America and Japan have licensed the Phone.com UP.Link™ server, making the UP.Browser microbrowser a logical choice for HEI. "
"The agreement with HEI demonstrates Phone.com's continued commitment to provide WAP-based software to handset manufacturers worldwide," said Jeff Damir, vice president of business development for Phone.com. "The incorporation of Phone.com's microbrowser will enable HEI to provide the Korean market with the latest in wireless Internet information services through its CDMA phones."
The P-2 is a CDMA 1.8GHz digital phone of HEI. Featuring a full-sized keypad in a compact, clamshell-style PCS phone, the P-2 weighs only 79g(2.78 ounces) with slim battery. It also features voice dialing, vibration call-alert, calculators, calendar and large LCD window for graphic user interface. Equipped with the Qualcomm MSM 3000 chip, 14.4 kbps data transmission is possible. Adaptation of UP.Browser enables mobile Internet access. The P-2E, 1.9 GHz version of the P-2, will be introduced in January 2000 in the U.S. market.
HEI is among the 25+ companies that have licensed Phone.com's UP.Browser. UP.Browser is currently being ported to more than 50 distinct phone models for all major digital standards, including CDMA, GSM, iDEN, PDC, PHS and TDMA.
Phone.com's UP.Browser is a WAP-compatible microbrowser designed and optimized for mass-market wireless telephones. Using UP.Browser, wireless subscribers can access Web-based information and services that are hosted on network operators' or third-party Web servers. Due to its open and highly portable architecture, UP.Browser can be embedded into a variety of wireless telephones and utilizes each mobile phone's specific display and input characteristics, such as graphical displays and programmable keys. UP.Browser in combination with each phone's existing user interface software allows network operators to reach subscribers and add innovative services while utilizing seamless integration of voice and data services.
Phone.com provides handset manufacturers with portable software modules that can be easily ported to existing phone models thereby greatly reducing the required R&D investment. Handset manufacturers can optimize the integration of UP.Browser into their wireless handsets with the technical assistance, documentation and tools of Phone.com's OEM support organization.
Metawave Announces New Enhancements to SpotLight 2000 Smart Antenna System for CDMA Networks; Dynamic Sector Synthesis feature provides greater CDMA network capacity gains; SiteSculptor software maximizes configuration and optimization flexibility
Redmond, WA, November 24, 1999 -- Metawave® Communications Corporation, a leading provider of smart antenna systems for cellular operators, announced today the availability of two important new features of its SpotLight® 2000 smart antenna product: an automatic, dynamic traffic management functionality called Dynamic Sector Synthesis™ and an enhanced modeling, configuration and OA&M software package called SiteSculptor™.
SpotLight 2000 is a smart antenna system that interfaces to a wide range of popular CDMA base stations to expand network capacity. Dynamic Sector Synthesis and SiteSculptor can be retrofitted to systems in the field and will be commercially available in 1Q2000. "SpotLight 2000 is a targeted, cost-effective solution to the capacity problems of CDMA networks," said Bob Hunsberger, Metawave's president and chief executive officer. "With enhancements like Dynamic Sector Synthesis and SiteSculptor, operators can facilitate greater capacity gains through better traffic management and take advantage of the system's flexibility and precision to make more efficient use of their infrastructure investment."
Dynamic Sector Synthesis is a unique new technology that enables operators to balance traffic loading among sectors at cell sites, even as the distribution of traffic changes over time. With Dynamic Sector Synthesis, SpotLight 2000 actively monitors the RF environment in real time to determine the distribution of traffic at a cell site. The system then automatically selects the optimal RF radiation pattern that best balances traffic loading across the sectors of the cell. Load balancing creates headroom for traffic growth in busy cells, or hot spots, which in turn enables traffic growth across the entire network-by up to 40% in actual field deployments.
"Operators are all too familiar with the challenges of widely varying CDMA traffic distributions at different times of the day, different days of the week or what have you," said Dr. Marty Feuerstein, Metawave's vice president of product development. "With Dynamic Sector Synthesis, the key benefit to the operator lies in the system's ability to adapt to the changing traffic patterns in CDMA networks. And the operation of the system is wholly automatic, which requires significantly less user intervention and leads to lower operating costs."
Network management is further eased by the new SiteSculptor integrated system management software package. The package, which is compatible with Windows® 95/98/NT operating systems, combines antenna pattern modeling, system configuration and system OA&M functions in a single application. According to Feuerstein, "All the functions of SiteSculptor are accessed through a common graphical user interface (GUI). Operators can use the GUI to 'test' alternative antenna patterns before going live, then download from the program directly to their SpotLight 2000 system at the cell site. Calibration, monitoring, alarming and diagnostic functions can all be accessed, both locally and remotely, through the GUI as well."
Nortel Networks, TELUS Mobility Collaborate to Push CDMA Capacity Envelope, Achieve 30 Percent More Users Per Sector Across Digital Wireless Network
Dallas, TX, November 19, 1999 -- Nortel Networks and TELUS Mobility have achieved a 30 percent improvement in radio frequency (RF) capacity for cdmaOne* (IS-95 CDMA) networks.
Using the latest RF engineering tools and services from Nortel Networks, the companies have collaborated on design improvements that can increase RF capacity to an average of 17 users per sector, more than 30 percent better than the industry norm of 13.
Calgary-based TELUS Mobility plans to implement these improvements throughout its digital wireless network, which is based exclusively on Nortel Networks CDMA infrastructure equipment.
"Continued, skyrocketing demand for wireless challenges our ability to maintain high quality and capacity at reasonable cost," said David Miles, vice-president, network, TELUS Mobility. "Working closely with Nortel Networks, we've achieved a substantial RF capacity increase, enhancing the value of our network and helping us to control costs while continuing to deliver the highest-quality service to our customers."
"It's critical to deliver advanced services to operators to maximize their network investment and control costs," said Dave Murashige, vice-president, marketing, Wireless Solutions, Nortel Networks. "This achievement allows us to do so while taking a fundamental step toward delivering next generation Wireless Internet services today."
"Nortel Networks has a history of innovation in RF technology, and is continuing its efforts to keep costs in line while offering high quality, high performance and differentiating services," Murashige said.
Nortel Networks CDMA RF innovations include multi-carrier traffic allocation, flexible power control setting, and enhanced hard handoff trigger. These and other innovations are part of Nortel Networks' Wireless Internet architecture, which ranked number one in a comparison of major global manufacturers published earlier this year by the Yankee Group. Based on this architecture, Nortel Networks has established a challenge goal to reduce the total cost to deliver a megabit of data over a wireless network from 37 cents to four cents within the next five years.
US WEST Launches Breakthrough Wireless Open-Network Technology; Promises to Expand Wireless Data Access to Millions More Customers; World's 1st Deployment of Smaller, More Environmentally Friendly 'PICOcell' Mini-Tower Network; Award-Winning Open-Network Architecture Enables Faster, More Cost-Effective Delivery of Advanced Web-Based Wireless Services; Will Ultimately Impact Customers in 11 U S WEST States & Nationwide
Salt Lake City, November 17, 1999 -- U S WEST today launched an award-winning new kind of advanced wireless network -- one the world hasn't seen before. The open-network technology -- available to customers first in Salt Lake City -- will enable speedier, more efficient delivery of the latest in Internet-based wireless services to millions more Americans, including many outside major metropolitan markets.
The innovative technology -- built in partnership with Alcatel, Ericsson, Nortel Networks and Tekelec -- won an international design award at Global Telecom 99 in Geneva this fall. It features a first-in-nation, open-network architecture that enables U S WEST -- and potentially other companies across the U.S. -- to more quickly and broadly deploy advanced Web-based wireless services. It uses new 'PICOcell' mini-tower antennas that are smaller and more environmentally friendly than past cell towers.
"This breakthrough wireless technology will help put the power -- and now mobility -- of the Internet in the palms of consumers' hands," said Solomon D. Trujillo, chairman, president and CEO, U S WEST. "It's fitting we're launching this in Salt Lake City, where in 2002 athletes will be swifter, higher and stronger. This new service lets consumers do the same. Today, they can get sports scores, the weather, stock quotes and more -- all on their wireless phones. Early next year, they'll be able to get full 'Web-to-go' interactive Internet services. That's exciting."
U S WEST's Salt Lake City wireless network -- which was built entirely with the new open-network architecture and PICOcells -- will be a launching pad for further deployment of new network technology in 11 states in U S WEST's region. This will include:
- Both open-network architecture and PICOcells will be used by U S WEST in expanding wireless service to 22 new markets - primarily in the company's northern tier states;
- Open architecture and U S WEST Wireless's Intelligent Network will be used to more cost-effectively deploy additional advanced services in 24 existing U S WEST Wireless markets - including in the Denver, Seattle, Portland, Phoenix and Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan areas.
Phase-One Wireless Information Data Services
Along with the launch of its new wireless network technology, U S WEST is providing
its initial set of Web-based wireless information services.
- U S WEST's unique Information Services package, available immediately, lets customers select up to six categories of information -- including sports scores, stock market results, weather and news bulletins -- and have up-to-the-minute news sent from Internet-based and other sources directly to their wireless handsets throughout the day.
- Dial-Up Access to Wireless Data Services, which will also be available in most markets beginning this month, turns customers' wireless handset into a modem that can be used to dial into an ISP or a corporate data network. The handset can also be used as a fax modem.
- Enhancements to the leading-edge Data Mail Service, which allows customers to receive text and numeric messages on their handset, include group messaging and personal account set up.
- U S WEST 'Web-to-Go' service, enabled by technology already
built into the phone, will let customers access text-based Internet information
wirelessly by early next year. Features include:
- The U S WEST DEX online directory that gives customers instant access to the Yellow Pages as well as business and white pages;
- A mailbox that can receive, display, store and send e-mail messages; and
- Additional Internet sites offering business and financial news, sports, weather, local events and travel tips.
Unique U S WEST 'One-Number' and Other Integrated Wireless
Features
The Financial Times Global Telecoms award for 'Best in Intelligent Network Applications'
was presented to U S WEST Wireless at Telecom 99 for the company's breakthrough
open-network architecture, and also for its innovative integrated wireless features,
including unique 'one-number' service that integrates a customer's home or business
phone number with their wireless phone. U S WEST Wireless offers customers the
following innovative features:
- Gives customers unprecedented simplicity. It's as easy as using a home or office phone, with just one number to remember -- no juggling of multiple numbers; no need to change business cards.
- Automatically routes customers' home or office phone calls to their mobile handset when they're on the go. This 'wireless extension' gives customers added flexibility and control over their calls.
- Offers the highest degree of wireless integration available with popular PBX office telephone systems. U S WEST handset will act as an extension to many types of desktop office phones.
- Includes the mass availability of 'Mobile Dial Tone,' a new feature that lets customers know instantly that their mobile phone is ready to make or receive calls
- Provides one-stop customer care and billing with other U S WEST services.
"Our Salt Lake City wireless system is a first of its kind," said Peter Mannetti, president, U S WEST Wireless. "In addi