Microcell Launches 3G Trials With Ericsson

Toronto-based Microcell Connexions Inc. is beginning trials of third-generation (3G) wireless communications technology with Ericsson Canada Inc. (Mississauga, Ontario). The trials will test a 3G wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA) radio system in the same 1900 MHz spectrum.

The trials will be crucial in determining the feasibility of operating 3G wireless services in the North American PCS bandwidth, said Anthony Schultz, Microcell Connexions vice president of network planning and operations.

The trials will be performed in an urban area Montreal, Canada. Participants will be able to test a wide variety of applications, including file transfer, Internet, and corporate network access, Web browsing, and videoconferencing. High-speed packet data support of up to 472 kbps in a mobile environment will be included. The trials will also demonstrate the smooth migration from second generation toward 3G PCS mobile networks, and they will highlight the interoperability of the two types of networks.

All trials will take place in a live, "over-the-air" field environment, which is made possible by a developmental radio license from Industry Canada.

Microcell Connexions, representing the North American GSM Alliance L.L.C. and Telesystem International Wireless (TIW), is partnering with Ericsson on the evaluation of 3G wireless technology.