Ericsson Opens 3G Demo Center, Launches W-CDMA Test Network

Wireless system and equipment manufacturer Ericsson (Stockholm, Sweden) has opened a wideband-CDMA (W-CDMA) demo center in Stockholm. According to the company, operators and other members of the wireless industry can use this facility to experience third-generation (3G) wireless services.

In addition to offering the new demo center, Ericsson has teamed with Telia, a Scandanvian operator, to establish a W-CDMA test network in Kista, Sweden. The new network is a 3G mobile system integrated with other cellular and fixed networks. It features a W-CDMA cellular network with multiple radio base stations, a network controller, and a switching center.

The Krista W-CDMA network, which is located just outside Stockholm, connects to Telia's GSM network and integrated services digital network (ISDN) as well as to the Internet. It also links to the local public-switched telephone network (PSTN) through Ericsson's corporate network.

Ericsson and Telia will use the Kista W-CDMA network to test the functionality of 3G services. These services will include video conferencing, multimedia e-mailing, Internet protocol (IP)-based services, and Web surfing on real public networks.

The W-CDMA test network covers an area of approximately 15 square kilometers between the cities of Kista, Akalla, and Sollentuna, near Stockholm. Coverage is also planned soon in the Stockholm downtown area.