|
|
Sprint,Motorola tie up for wireless broadband development
Technology trials to validate next generation network infrastructure needs
BY OUR TECHNOLOGY CORRESPONDENT
5 July, 2005: Sprint and Motorola, both leaders in wired and wireless telecom space, have signed an agreement to hold wireless broadband technology testing and equipment trials togther this year and next. The moves will help substantiate upcoming wireless network infrastructure needs and products for new wireless interactive multi-media services, the two companies said.
The Sprint-Motorola tie-up is expected to drive IEEE 802.16e (2.5GHz) technology development, help formulate network architecture strategies and validate vendor solutions. Sprint and Motorola will work jointly on lab testing of base station equipment, multimedia handsets and field trials in certain locations and smart antenna technology as the foundation for evaluating new business cases. Once the outcomes are successful, it will show the way to client demonstrations and more user studies for telecom market introduction.
According to Sprint CTO and VP for technology development Oliver Valente, “Sprint is fostering a number of strategic partnerships and investigating multiple technologies in support of future wireless interactive multimedia services. WiMAX is one of the technologies Sprint is investigating for services which would be considered for deployment in the 2.5 GHz band of spectrum.”
Added senior vice president and chief technology officer for Motorola NetworksDan Coombes: “Motorola will use its deep heritage in wireless radio technology innovation, IP core switching and wireless devices to help Sprint validate next generation wireless opportunities.”
Earlier, Sprint had inked a similar understanding with micro-chip mmaker Intel, as it begins to cultivate an army of chipsets, devices, infrastructure for future wireless broadband services and equipment. Sprint has provided broadband wireless (BRS) service in the past and continues to investigate potential offerings of interest to the marketplace. In January, Sprint joined the WiMAX Forum as a principal member to lend its support and long-standing network expertise to that organization's mission of global interoperability standards formation for broadband wireless access products.
Motorola is a Fortune 100 global communications leader that provides seamless mobility products and solutions across broadband, embedded systems and wireless networks. Sprint offers an extensive range of innovative communication products and solutions, including global IP, wireless, local and multiproduct bundles.
BY OUR TECHNOLOGY CORRESPONDENT
|
