Bubba,
Again I am not a techie, but my understanding is that the objective of the whole exercise IS ABOUT GETTING CONTINUOUS SPECTRUM. Eventhough the iDEN system is designed to work on non-continuous spectrum, it becomes much more efficient (i.e., it can broadcast more calls out of the same spectrum) if it operates on continuous spectrum. The reason, I was told, is that, in the non-continuous spectrum, part of it is utilized for "overhead", that is information regarding the channels, "insulation" and staff like this . The more continuity, the less the need to occupy spectrum for "overhead" and the more the capacity to trasmit money making calls. Of course, as you point out, the additional benefit is flexibility regarding the choice of technology down the road. Again, other techie opinions are welcome.
Tavros |
