<If spectrum could be made so efficient that 1.25 MHz could handle all needs for all people, then yes, the value of spectrum would go to zero. But that's not the situation. We are somewhere between the two extremes of $10,000 per minute if there is only one minute available [actually, I doubt that one minute could be sold for that price every minute of every day] and $0 per minute if there is infinite capacity in the spectrum.>
Spectrum has finite limits. That is why Korean wireless companies are now launching their second 1.25 MHZ carrier for data only (DO) purposes. SKT and KTF just launched CDMA2000 1xEV DO services, and KTF is launching wireless cable through their networks.
There are 3 main types of communication services that require our attention - voice, broadband, and cable. To date, CDMA has been limited to voice since the inception of digital services. The pricing for voice only has hit a cyclical bottom now that CDMA is beginning to emerge as the global standard for voice, broadband, and cable (video).
In the near term, wireless will migrate from VoIP, Broadband, and Cable applications on the handset to other devices. CDMA2000 1xEV DO will be empowered by cdma handsets, home CDMAports, wireless aircards, and other devices as the last mile solution.
I think the market is not appreciating the largest point of 3G - it leverages the benefit of mobility with residential applications. If I buy a CDMA2000 1XEV DO aircard for my pc, this will offer the full mobile benefits of wireless broadband and cable. I can plug the aircard into my computer with a flat-screen monitor and watch my cable services or surf the internet at 2.4 MBPS on a DO carrier.
For example, if I buy a CDMA2000 1XEV DO home port with 802.11b, I can network all the devices in my house to the 1xEV DO carrier. The contribution of 802.11b netowrking is a great complement for the host connection - CDMA1xEV DO. Of course, Bluetooth, USB port connections, and other wireless "networking" applications would be a great way to leverage the use of CDMA minutes around the house.
When I think about it, it would be great to replace pc towers with CDMA1xEV DO towers. Remote storage to digital archives for music, pictures, cd, dvd, games, etc... would provide better ways to enjoy your media.
Why should I buy a 802.11b tower to provide wireless networking for my computer? It woudl be far better to design a CDMA2000 1xEV DO tower with a dedicated carrier. That provides VoIP, Broadband, and Cable into the computer from the DO carrier. It could further provide home networking for other devices in the house.
Qualcomm is very close to getting IT. |
