Samsung, Hyundai, Panteck to develop W-CDMA handsets
URL: koreaherald.co.kr
Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Electronics Industries (HEI) andPanteck Co. are to develop commercial technology and ultimately commercialize W-CDMA (wideband-code division multiple access) mode handsets.
The Ministry of Information and Communication yesterday announced
the Stage 2 IMT-2000 Technology Development Plan that calls for 131.2 billion won in investment, including a 52.6 billion won governmentcontribution, for the development of W-CDMA technology.
As part of the plan, Samsung Electronics and HEI have been assigned Information and Communications (LGIC) and HEI have each been
charged to develop core networks. Samsung Electronics, LGIC, HEI, Panteck Co. and eight other telecom companies are to test the whole systems, according to the newly announced plan.
Korean companies have so far concentrated on developing multi-carrier
mode, also known as cdma2000, which is an evolution of CDMA
technology, but they have recently been turning to W-CDMA technology,
which is based on GSM (global system for mobile communication) mode.
Currently, GSM accounts for over 70 percent of the global wireless
market.
The W-CDMA technology development effort, to be spearheaded by
the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), will
involve some 400 personnel. 46.2 billion won will go toward
commercialization technology, 33.6 billion won toward modem
technology, 37.3 billion won toward developing parts and 46.2 billion
toward core technology, according to the plan.
In 1997, the ministry initiated the first stage of IMT-2000 technology
development focusing on cdma2000.
Meanwhile, the ministry is to set up a consultative body for the
development of third-generation mobile telecom technology to promote
the development of W-CDMA technology at the national level.
Updated: 12/17/1999
by Kim Hoo-ran Staff reporter |
