Both GSM and WCDMA

From the beginning, WCDMA was synonym of new frequencies and related new licenses, new infrastructure to be deployed. During the week, a series of announcement has shadowed what was believed as the truth. Siemens has unveiled one base station that can operate both in a GSM network and in a W-CDMA network simultaneously, using W-CDMA data to be transmitted over the GSM 900 MHz frequency (GSM). So sites, antennas, cables, etc, can be common. Huawei made a similar announcement, saying it has succeeded to complete video phone and HSDPA 3.6 Mbps services trials on a network in Europe using UMTS 900 MHz. It will continue tests in Europe and Australia. Motorola has similar products. It has introduced a new infrastructure that lets GSM operators easily and cost-effectively deploy UMTS/HSxPA into their existing GSM installed equipment. Its Horizon 3G-n fiber UMTS/HSxPA Node-B includes two separate components: the BaseBand Unit (BBU) and the Remote Radio Unit (RRU). The RRU unit can be installed up to 40Km away from the controlling BBU, potentially providing a wide 3G coverage without the need for costly backhaul to multiple sites.

What it means? There are now solutions to provide broadband mobile services without the need deploying new costly infrastructure in sites and equipment. Costs saving in installation, as well as in operation and maintenance are also significant. This also means 3G coverage could be not so limited as previously explained. The problematics of 3G coverage is now the same as the 2G coverage., therefore, we can expect 3G services in rural areas. Isn't a good news before Xmas!.