What is WCDMA?

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darrylb

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#271 16-Jun-2003 09:33

Apparently Nokia is releasing a 3G handset compatible with both GSM and WCDMA and seemless handover between the two.

However, the article I read talks about WCDMA, not CDMA. So I have a couple of questions.

1. What is the difference between CDMA and WCDMA and

2. Does anyone know what Telecoms plans are regarding WCDMA in NZ?

A search of Telecoms website for WCDMA and 3G yeilds nothing.

Thanks

D

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freitasm

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#455 16-Jun-2003 11:26

WCDMA is a 3G evolutionary path for GSM and TDMA technology. Wideband Code-Division Multiple-Access (W-CDMA) is one of the main technologies for the implementation of third-generation (3G) cellular systems. It is based on radio access technique proposed by ETSI Alpha group and the specifications was finalised 1999.

Telecom and Vodafone have not clarified what's their path to 3G, but it sure has to go through WCDMA at some point (or EDGE for Vodafone as an intermediary step).

The new Nokia would work on Vodafone current network and future 3G networks here, since it's based on SIM Card.

Ralph

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#1815 9-Oct-2003 16:43

Most 3G handsets these days are dual-mode, that is, WCDMA and GSM capable. The first ones, ie the ones at 3 in Australia were only WCDMA, but the newest are all dual-mode. That means, when moving from an area of WCDMA coverage, to one without WCDMA coverage, the call will continue on the GSM network.

WCDMA handsets use an extended SIM, called a USIM (UMTS Subscriber Information Module) which contains additional WCDMA information.

The biggest difference between WCDMA and CDMA2000 is the origin. WCDMA is an evolution of GSM, while CDMA2000 is an evolution of CDMA. WCDMA uses a broader spectrum and the signalling is based on GSM. CDMA's signalling is somewhat related to TDMA signalling. Both use Code Division to get the packets in sequence and both offer similar data speed and voice capabilities.

Telecom haven't been open about their 3G technology, but a recent newspaper article hinted towards Telecom going WCDMA. Vodafone will almost certainly go WCDMA, and TelstraClear have indicated a desire to operate a WCDMA network.

darrylb

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#1816 9-Oct-2003 17:06

I can confirm that Vodafone will go WCDMA, however, I understand that if Telecom moves to 3G (which is far from certain) it will probably be to a different standard as their implementation of CDMA is not standard and forces them down another path. This is based on information from Vodafone - so it may be slightly bent.

Telecom have also hinted at not building a 3G network and piggybacking off someone elses....

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#1817 9-Oct-2003 17:13

WCDMA was renamed to 3GSM to avoid confusion with CDMA2000. Anyway, the article Ralph is referring to is here.

Next week I'm going to a 3G demo by TelstraClear, here in Wellington.