2. Towards the end of 2009, a majority of the mobile
phones operated on 3G network technologies. The
networks used GSM (Global System for Mobile) and
CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). CDMA is
commonly used in the United States, while more than
80 percent of the rest of the world use the GSM
networks. Now a newer technology called Long Term
Evolution (LTE) is looking to replace the existing
systems.
3. So why would internet providers in my area want to switch to LTE? Well,
LTE uses radio waves that enable significantly more data to be
transferred on the same bandwidth that is currently being used by 3G
equipment. This means that service providers will get more data transfer
(and users) at the same speed and the overall cost will go down for
network providers. Today, the public demands greater options for
browsing besides desktops and notebooks and some technology is
needed that will achieve this at faster speeds. As more people on the
move prefer to use mobile phones rather than laptops or desktops, high
speed internet connection is becoming a necessity. LTE can fulfill this
need.
The LTE currently under development will enable wireless providers that
use CDMA and GSM to move to 4G networks and equipment. The
transfer to LTE will allow customers to run applications faster and make
new mobile phone applications available. Video and gaming experiences
can be enhanced. Considering that LTE easily connects to current
networks, the transition can be seamless and the CDMA and GSM
networks can be used as backups.
4. Why wouldn’t internet providers in my area want to switch to LTE?
The start-up costs associated with achieving such high speeds and
the equipment upgrades are one reason. Since LTE makes use of
multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology, cell base stations
may require extra antennae to transmit and receive information.
When base stations are upgraded, consumers may need to buy new
phones to make use of the upgraded networks.
Networks already providing LTE technology put usage limits and a
hefty price for the plans. There will basically be two options
customers can select from. Go with the slow but cheap 3 Mbps fixed
connections that allow 100 GB to unlimited plans or select LTE with
the 5-12 Mbps, but with limited usage allowance. This means any
online video viewing will have costs comparable with that of a
matinee ticket.
5. For the time being, the general consumer will most probably
stick with the more affordable option of fixed internet
connections. Simply because they get plenty of download
allowance at an affordable price. However, there is a market for
the new technology even now, provided:
• One is a frequent traveler requiring wireless broadband
service.
• The broadband is used only for web browsing or email and
almost no multimedia.
• One is not bothered with the costs associated with over-limits.
6. With advancements in WiMax and LTE it is just a matter of
time before consumers convert to mobile networks for all their
broadband requirements. According to some analysts, 47
percent of European broadband needs will be covered by
mobile broadband as early as 2013. Additionally, the net
growth of DSL customers is already showing signs of slowing.
Chips that are cooler, faster and cheaper are due to be out
next year. Also, problems regarding switching are being
ironed out and mobile cell manufacturers are coming out with
phones capable of using the LTE technology. Finally, the
potential data transfer rates of 1 GB per second that this
technology is set to achieve within the next couple of years is
just too good to miss out on. The time when LTE replaces the
fixed home high speed internet connection is not that far
away.
7. Learn more about high speed internet at
www.broadbandexpert.com/high-speed-internet.
This website allows users to uncover the advantages of internet
providers and how they can benefit them.
