Software Defined Subscriber Equipment

Without a doubt there exists a vision that will facilitate the development of software programmable, multiband, multimode subscriber units. Software programmable radio devices will allow a subscriber unit to adapt its modulation, multiple-access method, and other characteristics to be able to communicate with a wide range of different systems and more efficiently support diverse voice, data, image and video requirements. Like a learnable universal remote control, your decision for wireless service will be based on a true personal value, not technology!

Spatial Division Multiple Access (SDMA)

Spatial Division Multiple Access (SDMA) is a technology which increases the quality and capacity of wireless communications systems. Using advanced algorithms and adaptive digital signal processing, Base Stations equipped with multiple antennas can more actively reject interference and use spectral resources more efficiently. This would allow for larger cells with less radiated energy, greater sensitivity for portable cellular phones, and greater network capacity.

Figure 4.6 shows a typical 120 degree sectored antenna (an antenna which covers 1/3 of the cell site area). Within the coverage area denoted, the antenna can communicate with only one subscriber per traffic channel in the radio coverage area at any given time. The performance of the system is constrained by the levels of interference present.

Figure 4.6: Spatial Division Multiple Access (SDMA)

Wearable Communicators

Like the Wright brothers assuming a body of metal the size of a Boeing 747 aircraft could fly through the air, character artists assumed one day we would be...