14 DAY TRIAL // Mobile Satellite Ventures (MSV) announced that it will deploy what is believed to be the first integrated 4G and satellite broadband trial, powered by Nortel mobile WiMAX and IMS technologies. The hybrid satellite-terrestrial trial was announced at CTIA Wireless 2007.
"This trial is a significant step toward next-generation mobility," said Drew Caplan, MSV chief network officer. "Nortel's 4G and IMS expertise will help us demonstrate our transparency network architecture to support hybrid satellite-terrestrial communications on the basis of a 4G broadband platform, enabling new dimensions of service for our customers."
The trial with Nortel, which will be conducted in the Reston, Virginia area, will initially feature high-speed wireless voice, data and Web access, file sharing, and VoIP connectivity using residential gateway devices and PC Cards for users in fixed and portable modes of use. Subsequently, MSV expects to incorporate push-to-talk, video calling, picture-caller ID, and presence capabilities, full MSS/ATC integration, and support for a range of mobile devices. Nortel will integrate its WiMAX and IMS connectivity as well as devices and ASIC technology from Kyocera, WiNetworks, and Runcom Technologies.
Nortel equipment used in the trial will include WiMAX base stations and terminals, ancillary cell site gear, an IP core network, signaling equipment, authentication servers, media gateways, optical transport and IMS core elements. In addition, Nortel will provide design, network management and maintenance services from the Nortel Global Services portfolio for the entire trial infrastructure.
MSV plans to build a next-generation integrated network, which incorporates the benefits of both terrestrial, and satellite wireless communications systems. MSV currently offers a range of mobile satellite services (MSS) using two geostationary satellites that support the delivery of two-way radio (PTT), mobile data, voice and fax services to business and government subscribers across the United States and Canada.