Voda Achieves 16Mbps Mobile Broadband
Vodafone says that it has successfully trialled an evolution of mobile
broadband technology, achieving actual peak data download rates of up
to 16Mbps. The high speed data connection was achieved during field
trials of HSPA+ 64QAM technology on Vodafone Spain's network.
Vodafone now plans to trial mobile broadband data connections with
peak rates of up to 21Mbps early in 2009, using HSPA+ MIMO (Multiple
Input Multiple Output) functionality. The company's technicians
estimate that the technology would be capable of delivering a typical
video download experience of more than 13Mbps in good conditions, and
an average of more than 4Mbps across a full range of typical cell
locations, including urban environments. If the trials prove a
success, Vodafone plans to make the technology available in selected
commercial networks.
"Successfully demonstrating a live HSPA+ high speed connection has
been a key milestone in continuing to build confidence in this new
technology," says Vodafone Global Networks Director, Andy MacLeod.
"The results show that HSPA+ technology is well placed to further
enhance our customers' mobile broadband experience through the
evolution of our existing 3G networks."
Vodafone worked in association with Ericsson and Qualcomm to prove the
potential of the technology in the field, following impressive data
throughput rates achieved in laboratory tests.
HSPA+ technology is the next evolutionary step in the (3G) HSPA
roadmap. It increases performance through the use of a more advanced
modulation technique called 64QAM. Performance can be enhanced further
through the use of multiple antennae on both base stations and data
devices (MIMO).
Both 64QAM and MIMO features require new HSPA+ mobile broadband
devices. Vodafone is working with its device vendors on the trialing,
testing and validation of these devices, in preparation for commercial
availability.
At present, Vodafone mobile broadband customers can download data and
surf the net at speeds of up to 7.2Mbps, delivering an internet
experience comparable with fixed broadband. Vodafone expects HSPA+
mobile broadband technology to significantly enhance actual download
speeds as well as customers' overall mobile experience.
