- EDGE cost for handsets, zero (just software in the receiver)
- EDGE cost for modern base stations, somewhat better RF parts.
Basic handsets only need to receive EDGE, not transmit.
Base Station has to transmit EDGE, but modern, non-EDGE RF solutions are already
almost good enough.
Just as with all multy-level-QAM systems, carrying more bits per symbol (bandwidth),
they will work when the noise level is low enough, channel is good enough.
Another less basic factor is that the "cross-talk" from other channels,cells must be lower
than what legacy GSM demands. (not many of them in US)
That is, a smooth evolutional path where dynamic allocation of channels, timeslots, even
legacy and new handsets,etc will give the final result for the users.
At that point, almost OFDMA, "practical OFDMA in practice"
Ilmarinen
Please do not use the split of voice and data on different QCDMA channels as GSM is split on
many more channels, better isolated.
The answer to moving to "some form of CDMA" is fun in US, a matter of when those higher,
wider, line-of-sight bands will be available.
QCDMA needs narrow bands not to lose to WCDMA+GSM, but GSM/GPR/EDGE likes narrow bands even more,
between a rock and a hard place.
Except if one would reinstate monoplies on bands. (that Napoleonic cap)
How is ZIF going?? |
