Qualcomm Invests in AirStrip Technologies --Mobile Patient Monitoring

The Qualcomm Life Fund, whose mission is to accelerate wireless health services and technology adoption, has recently made a strategic investment in AirStrip Technologies, a start-up based in San Antonio, Texas.


AirStrip's vision is to securely send critical patient information directly from hospital monitoring systems, bedside devices, and electronic health records to a clinician's mobile device. The company has built an "AppPoint" software development platform that is FDA-cleared and designed to meet HIPAA-security requirements. AirStrip applications are powered over wired and wireless networks.


"Today, mobile technology plays one of the most important roles as we enter the largest health care transformation ever. As the model of care shifts to an outcomes-based approach, mobility will be an essential vehicle to develop a more collaborative, patient-centered model that delivers improved care at lower costs," said Alan Portela, CEO of AirStrip Technologies.http://

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Allot Wins LTE Service Gateway Order from Asian Tier One

Allot Communications received a follow-on order from an Asian Tier 1 mobile operator for the deployment of multiple Allot Service Gateway platforms to provide centralized policy control and charging, enabling the operator to drive new revenues by implementing value-based charging and offering its subscribers innovative service plans. The deployment will support the carrier's LTE rollout.


"Service providers are coming to realize that while LTE represents a huge opportunity for operators to improve the way they deliver Internet to subscribers in terms of throughput, they also require network intelligence to offer a wide range of services and service plans, and have the ability to charge for them," said Rami Hadar, Allot's President and CEO. "http://www.allot.com

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LG U+ Trials Cisco ASR 5000 for VoLTE

Cisco has supplied its mobile Internet solutions to LG U+ for trials on its next gen network. Specifically, the Cisco V2oLTE (Voice and Video over Long-Term Evolution) solution, based on the Cisco ASR 5000 Series multimedia core platform, will help LG U+ meet the performance challenge of carrying voice traffic over LTE.


Cisco claims its V2oLTE solution delivers the industry's highest-performing Call Session Control Function, unique deployment flexibility and a comprehensive application layer portfolio.
http://www.cisco.com

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Tekelec Cites Tier One Selection for Diameter Signaling supporting VoLTE

Tekelec has been selected by a Tier One mobile operator in the U.S. to expand its new Diameter network. The service provider will implement two new Tekelec Diameter Signaling Router (DSR) systems, in addition to the one announced in June 2011. The name of the customer was not disclosed.


The Tekelec Diameter Signaling Router (DSR) centralizes subscriber routing data and dynamically maps identification information, such as an MSISDN or IMSI, with the correct IMS Home Subscriber Server (HSS). Tekelec said its approach gives the service provider flexibility to move subscribers between databases and update databases when a new IMS HSS is added to the network, supporting future Voice over LTE (VoLTE) deployment.
http://www.tekelec.com

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Ciena Expects Revenues Below Previous Guidance

Ciena pre-announced revenues for its fiscal first quarter ended January 31, 2012 to be approximately $415 million, compared to the company’s previous expectation of $435 to $455 million. Adjusted (non-GAAP) gross margin is expected to be in-line with the previous guidance of the low 40s percent range.


“We are disappointed in our expected first quarter revenue results,�? said Gary Smith, president and CEO of Ciena. “As previously stated, we continue to experience longer customer deployment and revenue recognition cycles as a result of our greater mix of international and solutions-oriented sales. When combined with the impact of the seasonality of our business and the calendar timing of our first fiscal quarter, this trend had a more significant effect than previously anticipated, and resulted in revenue recognition delays on a few solutions-oriented projects with new customers, especially in international markets.�?


Smith continued, “However, we believe that first quarter revenue results are not reflective of the underlying strength of the business and ongoing customer demand. Specifically, product orders grew approximately 20 percent year-on-year, shipments were strong, and our ending backlog increased for the quarter. And, as evidence of our ability to drive operating leverage, we expect to be cash flow positive from operations and to achieve positive free cash flow for the quarter.�?http://www.ciena.com

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Apple Plans New Data Center in Oregon

Apple has acquired a 160 acre property in Prineville, Oregon and plans to build a state-of-the-art data center there, according to KTVZ.com.


Facebook operates its flagship data center in this same town in central Oregon.
http://www.ktvz.com

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NSN Tunes Self-Organizing Networks (SON) for the Core

Nokia Siemens Networks is applying Self-Organizing Networks (SON) technology to automate core network operations. The approach aims to enable a more flexible network core by automatically detecting, analyzing and reacting to changing traffic conditions.

The new SON for Core adapts instantly to balance traffic loads and help prevent demand peaks from causing bottlenecks. The company said its SON for Core also helps to optimize the use of transmission links between core network elements by automatically allocating unused capacity to overloaded connections. The solution enables operators to route voice calls to a point of interconnection that is lowest cost and best quality, thereby reducing operational expenditure and improving the customer experience. In addition, SON for Core enables the core network to handle smartphone signaling more efficiently.

“Today, core network management is largely manual and often reacts too slowly to maintain the best customer experience in the face of rapidly changing demands from smartphones. Manually configuring core network elements and their connectivity is a highly skilled task that can be prone to human error. SON for Core addresses these issues by helping to prevent harmful traffic congestion and other core network conditions that could degrade voice and data services," said Thorsten Robrecht, head of Network Systems product management, Nokia Siemens Networks.
http://www.nokiasiemensnetworks.com

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AppliedMicro Upgrades OTN Multiplexer for High Capacity P-OTS

AppliedMicro introduced an OTU2 Add-Drop multiplexer with 16 clients in one device and is designed to support Terabit-per-second switching capacity in Packet-Optical Transport Systems (P-OTS).


The new TPO134, which builds on the company's portfolio of optical framers and mappers, expands ODU cross-connect capacity to 80 Gigabit-per-second with two devices, while doubling the density for IP packet aggregation and TDM services.


AppliedMicro’s TPO134 offers support for ODU0 and ODUflex and all standardized client mappings. It is also adaptable to future new client mapping and monitoring requirements. An advanced software Application Programming Interface (API) makes integration into target systems efficient and allows for smooth migration of solutions over time.


The TPO134 joins AppliedMicro’s TPO124/114 add-drop multiplexers in addressing OTN aggregation as network providers and transport system vendors introduce a new OTN networking layer to replace SONET/SDH for greater capacity and efficiency of the Internet. The new layer not only transports IP services, but allows specialized Fibre Channel and video services as well as migration away from older SONET/SDH networks.


The TPO134 Add-Drop multiplexer is available now and shipping to customers this quarter.


"AppliedMicro leads the world in innovative technology for OTN transport and aggregation of packet and TDM services,�? said Lars Pedersen, Chief Technology Officer of AppliedMicro TPACK A/S. "Today we are announcing the expansion of our leadership position with the TPO134, which doubles the capacity and density of our TPO114/124 solutions. We provide our customers with a safe and stable migration path to future standards and market requirements. Additionally, AppliedMicro’s advanced software API makes integration into target systems efficient and allows for smooth migration of solutions as standards change and system requirements evolve."http://www.apm.com

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Qualcomm's 5th Gen Gobi Supports Multiple LTE Bands

Qualcomm announced its fifth generation "Gobi" embedded data connectivity reference platform for integrating LTE into a wide range of thin mobile devices, including laptops, tablets and convertibles.


Gobi now delivers LTE connectivity on FDD and TDD networks, with backwards compatibility to both HSPA+ and EV-DO networks. This will allow support for regional LTE frequencies with backwards compatibility to existing 2G/3G technologies. More specifically, this latest Gobi 4G LTE connectivity reference platform includes embedded GPS capability and features an application programming interface (API) with LTE extensions, which is compatible with leading connectivity standards, including CDMA2000® 1xEV-DO Rev. A and Rev. B, HSPA+, dual-carrier HSPA+, TD-SCDMA and LTE, with integrated backwards compatibility to HSPA and EV-DO. OS support includes Windows 8 and Android on multiple processing platforms, including Snapdragon dual-core and quad-core processors and x86 platforms.


Qualcomm said embedded modules based on the Gobi fifth generation reference platform will initially be available from Huawei, Novatel Wireless, Option, Sierra Wireless and ZTE in several form factors and regional configurations, making them a compelling 4G LTE solution for a variety of connected mobile devices.


“Mobile computing and broadband connectivity have already become indispensable tools in the road warrior's arsenal,�? said Fram Akiki, senior director of product management for Qualcomm CDMA Technologies. "With Windows 8, we expect to see an increasing variety of mobile computing devices also in use by connected consumers around the world. Our Gobi fifth generation reference platform helps ensure that OEMs can develop products across their choice of operating systems and hardware platforms to meet the growing demand for mobile connectivity."http://www.qualcomm.com

• In November 2011, Qualcomm has released its Gobi 4000 embedded modem chipsets for LTE. The Gobi 4000 platform, which represents the next generation of the company's existing multimode 3G/4G wireless modems, allows mobile device manufacturers to offer both LTE/HSPA+ and LTE/EV-DO designs. The new silicon features the Gobi Application Programming Interface (API) with LTE extensions and is compatible with leading connectivity standards, including CDMA2000 1xEV-DO Rev. A and B, HSPA+, dual-carrier HSPA+, and LTE with integrated backwards compatibility to HSPA and EV-DO. Novatel Wireless and Sierra Wireless are offering modules.

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LSI Unveils AXM2500 Processor Targets Wireless Access and Backhaul

LSI has expanded its Axxia Communication Processor family with a new device targeted at wireless access and mobile backhaul systems, including indoor and outdoor microwave units, cell-site routers, packet transfer nodes and backhaul platforms.


The AXM2500 combines traffic management, security and packet processing capabilities, the bridging function of an Ethernet switch, and the transport and internetworking functions of a multiservice processor in a single device.

The AXM2500 leverages PowerPC 476FP processors and LSI hardware acceleration engines and is the first LSI device to be implemented in 28nm technology, which ensures low power requirements. Various security features are integrated directly on-chip.


The LSI AXM2500 communication processors will be available to networking manufacturers in the second quarter of 2012.
http://www.lsi.com

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Ericsson's Acquisition of BelAir Adds Carrier Wi-Fi Solutions

Ericsson agreed to acquire privately-held BelAir Networks, a supplier of carrier-grade Wi-Fi solutions, for an undisclosed sum.


BelAir Networks, which is based in Ottawa, Ontario, supplies indoor and outdoor Wi-Fi systems that enable service providers to build scalable, high performance Wi-Fi networks. The company develops mobile networking solutions that are deployed by service providers including AT&T and Comcast.


Ericsson said the deal will accelerate carrier integration of Wi-Fi and cellular technologies. The acquisition will be part of Ericsson's heterogeneous network (hetnet) strategy to improve the mobile broadband experience by managing the co-existence of mobile technologies and Wi-Fi.


"Ericsson will lead the way in the growing converged Wi-Fi and cellular market where improved end-user experience is the driving force. By integrating BelAir Networks' market-leading products and competence into Ericsson's existing radio portfolio, we will be able to do this more quickly. We welcome 120 highly skilled people into the company," said Hans Vestberg, CEO of Ericsson.
http://www.belairnetworks.com

• In October 2011, BelAir Networks introduced a compact LTE+3G+Wi-Fi Metrocell featured integrated wireless backhaul and designed for massive, city-wide, small cell deployments.
  
  
  The new BelAir2100 LTE/3G/Wi-Fi Metrocell, which builds on the company's existing portfolio of Carrier Wi-Fi solutions, supports multiple licensed bands, Carrier Wi-Fi access and a range of integrated wireless and wireline backhaul options in a small, robust and easy to install base station. The company is aiming the product at metropolitan in-fill coverage. BelAir said its design mitigates interference and enables full RF interoperability between the licensed band and Wi-Fi access radios.
  
  
  Significantly, the unit will offer a bladed approach for 3G/LTE radio access. This will allow a carrier to use small cell radio modules compatible with their macro RAN infrastructure and perhaps even from the same vendors as their macro gear. The Wi-Fi capabilities could be used for offload from the cellular network or be configured for backhaul in a resilient mesh or point-to-point links. A series of units could be deployed in adjoining and intermeshed small cells requiring only electrical power.

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Radisys Announces LTE Small Cell Software Solution

Radisys announced its "Trillium TOTALeNodeB" software solution for LTE small cells.


TOTALeNodeB, which builds on the company's existing library of Trillium LTE protocol stacks, helps telecom equipment manufactures (TEMs) get to market quickly with an integrated LTE eNodeB that is verified across leading small cell system on a chip (SoC) platforms from Radisys’ premier silicon partners. The software can be used with any operating system on any chipset, enabling TEMs to choose from a variety of SoCs and transfer to a new silicon platform as market dynamics require. Radisys professional services are also able to customize the source to the required specifications.


TOTALeNodeB includes the Trillium LTE eNodeB application, radio resource management (RRM), radio environment monitoring (REM), self-organizing network (SON), schedulers and all of the Trillium protocol layers. Its modular design provides the flexibility for TEMs to choose to leverage Radisys’ off-the-shelf RRM, SON and scheduling algorithms or to implement custom algorithms.


“We’ve created reference designs in the past and now we’re moving to a complete solution by adding the application layer on the framework,�? said Todd Mersch, product line management director, Radisys. “With TOTALeNodeB, TEMs can choose from a range of integrated packages on a variety of chipsets to get a complete solution for migrating from 3G to LTE. In addition, we can provide any level of professional services needed throughout the development and deployment process.�?http://www.radisys.com

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Comcast Launches "Xfinity Streampix" Streaming Service

Comcast introduced its "Xfinity Streampix" subscription video service that enables its customers to instantly stream movies and TV shows in and out of their homes. Comcast has licensing agreements with leading movie studios and programming providers including Disney-ABC Television Group*, NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution and Cookie Jar Entertainment to begin streaming this week.


The streaming service, which is priced at $4.99 a month when purchased with other Comcast video packages, complements the 75,000 TV shows and movies currently available on Xfinity On Demand, XfinityTV.com and through the Xfinity TV app.
http://www.comcast.com

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Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung and Ericsson Hold Strongest LTE Patent Portfolios

The recent multi-billion valuations for the patent portfolios of Nortel and Motorola Mobility have raised greater interest in which companies hold the strongest patent portfolios in 4G/LTE.


Recent analysis by Thomson Reuters, along with input from members of the Article One Partners (AOP) patent research community, reveals that Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung and Ericsson have built the strongest LTE patent portfolios. These top four companies own 55% of the highly essential and most novel patents. The study reviewed all 3,116 patents and pending patents declared essential, as of September 30, 2011, by members of ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute).


The study also looks at patent claims for advanced LTE technologies, including MIMO techniques, Advanced Carrier Aggregation, which relates to the use of more than one channel or carrier in contiguous elements of the spectrum or bands, and Voice-Over LTE (VoLTE).


"Leading mobile communications companies understand the importance of patent portfolios in developing LTE technology. This report indicates portfolio growth through patenting of key trend technologies (e.g., Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung) and acquisition (e.g., Motorola Mobility and Nortel). We expect that the LTE Standards process and litigation resolution will over the next decade result in a licensing regime for the smartphones industry to more closely resemble their forbearers, the telecommunications and computer industries. Patents rarely exclude competition in the long run, particularly where thousands of patents (e.g., 3000+ under ETSI LTE specifications) can apply to devices, LTE access and content/applications," stated Cheryl Milone, CEO of Article One Partners.


Article One (AOP) publishes requests for patent research to its 20,000 global community members.
http://www.articleonepartners.com

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