re: Tropian Multi-Mode Multi-Band TimeStar Chipset with Polar Impact Architecture,
Multi-Mode Multi-Band Networks and Handhelds Critical for Future of Wireless
>> Beyond the Call
Michael R. Farese
Tropian, Inc
UWCC Guest Column
The theme of last month's UWCC Global Summit says it all: "TDMA ... GSM ... EDGE ... UMTS - Multiple Options for 3G Success." The variety of wireless standards for 1G, 2G, and now 3G has led to a need for the industry to economically build and maintain networks and handhelds that are forward and backward compatible to many, if not all, standards. For network operators, for handheld manufacturers, for infrastructure builders, and ultimately, for the wireless user, having multiple options is a critical element that will drive the success of the next generation of wireless.
Several factors are propelling the need to create networks and handhelds that support multiple standards:
Operator Convergence
As the leading network operators around the world, and especially in North and South America, grow and merge with other companies, their combined networks are often made up of different standards and different frequency bands. Operators naturally would like to offer their subscribers seamless and cost-effective service while maximizing their revenues. And once the industry moves to 2.5G and 3G, operators will have the challenge of dealing with yet more standards and hybrid networks. This translates into the need for multi-mode, multi-band handsets, and base stations.
Payback on 3G Licenses
In an effort to speed ROI for 3G licenses, operators will likely deploy value-added 3G services well before complete regional coverage is in place. We will likely see "islands" of 2.5 and 3G deployment surrounded by "oceans" of 2G connectivity. Consumers may be eager to take advantage of the new capabilities that 3G services have to offer, but will also demand high quality, ubiquitous voice and data connectivity when outside the 3G network. This expectation will drive the need for multi-mode phones that can transition effortlessly between 2G, 2.5G, and 3G operations.
Multiple Killer Apps
As we progress into the 3G landscape, there are many high speed, high bandwidth uses emerging that will surely spur 3G growth. In addition, the wireless industry is starting to accept the importance of designing wireless data applications that people can use now. At the recent Wireless Alliances and Vision Exchange, Stephen Carter, Cingular's Chief Executive Officer, said about wireless data, "We need to develop applications now on today's devices for today's needs on today's networks." The likely result will be ongoing development of many wireless data applications, with networks and handhelds that are forward and backward compatible, thus enabling new revenues from 2.5G and 3G applications, while protecting 2G income. Base stations and hand held devices that efficiently support multiple modes and bands will certainly help to grow 3G customers, while maintaining a 2G base of customers and revenues.
The Wireless User Demands More - for Less
Even with more capabilities offered by 3G devices, wireless users will require cost effective units at the same or smaller size and weight and with improved battery life. The result is the challenge faced by handset manufacturers to provide efficient, cost-effective products that support 3G applications with a similar part-count to current 2G devices.
In response to these issues, Tropian is preparing to launch a breakthrough, digital multi-mode, multi-band wireless transmitter in one compact chipset, called TimeStar. Utilizing Tropian's patented Polar Impact non-linear polar modulation architecture, the TimeStar chipset enables per-timeslot transmission of multiple voice and high-speed data standards including TDMA, GSM, EDGE, GPRS, GAIT, and AMPS. The same technology that drives the TimeStarTM transmitter for handsets is scalable for base station applications, so networks as well will be able to transmit in multiple modes for 2G and 3G standards.
It is our objective at Tropian to create and deliver cost effective products that will at long last provide the "multiple options for 3G success!" that operators, infrastructure builders, handheld makers, and the wireless users demand now and in the future.
As President and Chief Executive Officer, Michael R. Farese has the strategic and overall operating responsibility for building Tropian into a leading provider of advanced technology products for the wireless communications industry.Mr. Farese's move to Tropian caps a long and prestigious career in wireless communications that included senior management positions at Motorola Corp., Ericsson Inc., Nokia Corp., ITT Corp., and AT&T. His extensive experience encompassed marketing, engineering, and sales in key management positions for some of the wireless industry's largest players, and included both domestic and international responsibilities. <<
- Eric - |
