Next Generation IP Based Mobile Networks
by Mark Carpenter, CEO, Centricity Communications

Irvine, CA, USA, June 1, 2007 — In the 1980’s, carriers launched the first mobile phone voice services based on analog technologies. The first “phone” was actually built into a suitcase style device, and then later reduced to a brick-sized portable phone.

In the 1990’s, carriers converted their mobile networks to 2nd generation (2G) digital based technologies. Though, still essentially a circuit-switched voice network, the digital network allowed carriers to add packet-switched layers for IP data traffic including email and Internet web browsing services.

Today’s mobile carriers are moving toward 3rd generation (3G) networks, which provide higher data rates, and allow simultaneous voice and data traffic. However, 3G networks are still based on proprietary, voice-centric standards that rely on time-sensitive operation to maintain a connection.

In 2001, the IEEE and ETSI technology standards groups began working on commercial wireless broadband standards that could provide both fixed and mobile IP based solutions. These groups drafted what became the 802.16 WiMAX™ standard, which builds upon technology from the well-known 802.11 WiFi™ standard used today at offices and hotspots throughout the world, but at a commercial class level with much further range (5-30 miles) at high bandwidth (1.5Mbps to 80Mbps).

Due to its long range, high bandwidth, and quality of service levels, mobile WiMAX is expected to deliver ubiquitous city-wide coverage for mobile users. Major network operators have reserved licensed spectrum for mobile WiMAX services and are starting to launch test networks, with plans for first commercial deployments by 2008. (Note: traditional mobile carriers are also working on a 4th generation standard (4G LTE) that is based on technology similar to mobile WiMAX (OFDM based) and is targeted for launch in the 2010 timeframe).

Intel is expected to release its first generation of Centrino™ WiMAX chips later this year. By 2008, the first mobile WiMAX applications will be integrated into laptops for business travelers, commercial delivery vehicles, and other mobile services. Smartphone products are expected to follow as more efficient, low power processors are released to the market.

Users will be able to cost-effectively access their email, browse the Internet, and utilize other IP based applications at any time from any location city-wide. Of course, users can do this today via 2G / 3G mobile networks or via WiFi hotspots. However, the key advantages for mobile WiMAX users are they will be operating on a data-centric network with voice-over-IP (VoIP) voice services, at further range, and at higher bandwidth.

A standardized IP based data network is much more cost-effective to deploy and maintain. In addition, drawing comparisons to the Internet revolution of the 1990’s, because the technology is based on IP standards, users and developers will create yet-undiscovered ways to better communicate and share information.

Though still in the early stages, major network operators are starting to deploy mobile WiMAX test networks in Southern California. Upon commercial deployment, Irvine businesses can expect to immediately benefit from a truly mobile workforce that can operate city-wide on a cost-effective, high-speed standards-based network.

About the Author
Mark Carpenter is founder and CEO of Centricity Communications LLC, an Irvine Chamber Member and provider of fixed wireless point-to-point and Internet services for small to mid-sized businesses in Orange County, delivering commercial bandwidth from 1.5Mbps to 80Mbps. For more information about Centricity please visit www.centricitycomm.com or you can contact him directly at mark.carpenter@centricitycomm.com.