Challenges Facing LTE Modem Manufacturers

 
 
By J. Gerry Purdy  |  Posted 2011-04-29 Email Print this article Print
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


 

Challenges facing LTE modem manufacturers

Andrew related that there are a number of challenges to a modem manufacturer to bring out an entirely new 4G LTE wireless modem. A modem manufacturer must:

1. Support complex deployments requiring different frequency bands and combinations of bands.

  • Support LTE as well as existing 2.5G and 3G wireless data networks.
  • Support desire to roam, both locally and internationally.
  • Deliver LTE modem products globally.
  • Support the evolving 3GPP LTE standard.
2. Control costs.

  • These have to be "in line" with current wireless modem costs.
3. Design for high-speed, multimode operation.

  • Ensure no bottleneck at device interface.
  • Manage heat and power consumption.
4. Provide good reception.

  • This requires careful antenna design and testing.
5. Obtain precertification of modems.

  • This requires significant interaction with the wireless operator, and data modems such as these can't be developed independently of the operator.
6. Deliver on promised performance.

  • Satisfy performance users' expectations when using LTE.
7. Design for TCO.

  • Enterprises that purchase wireless modems for use with their employees' notebook PCs have to consider the total cost to acquire and deploy the modems.
  • Wireless data rates need to be considered in the TCO.


 
 
 
 
J. Gerry Purdy, Ph.D., is Principal Analyst of Mobile & Wireless at MobileTrax LLC.
Dr. Purdy has been covering mobile, wireless, cloud & enterprise for the past 20+ years. He writes analysis and recommendations each week in an easy-to-read manner that helps people better understand important technology issues and assist them in making better technology purchasing decisions.

Disclosure Statement: From time to time, I may have a direct or indirect equity position in a company that is mentioned in a column. If that situation happens, then IÔÇÖll disclose it at that time.
 
 
 
 
 
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