Qualcomm Inc (QCOM)

[khemara_qc]

CDMA goes underground

Bell Canada is the first wireless carrier to extend CDMA2000 1X network coverage underground to the Montréal métro subway system as part of a pilot project currently underway involving five stations: Berri-UQAM, Saint- Laurent, Place-des-Arts, McGill and Peel.

These stations are used by 88% of subway passengers, making them among the busiest of the Montréal métro system. Bell subscribers can now use their mobile phones in the indoor areas of these stations, including tunnels and platforms. Bell Canada is funding this pilot project to assess the feasibility of offering coverage in subway systems in Montréal and elsewhere in Canada.

"This innovative project demonstrates Bell Canada's leadership in developing technology to deliver more extensive access to the most advanced wireless network in the country," said Pierre Blouin, group president, Consumer Markets at Bell Canada. "In fact, Bell was the first company to develop Montréal's underground city nearly 10 years ago, installing its network over 12 kilometres of tunnels and underground spaces downtown and in the surrounding areas. We are expanding and adding to the quality of our IX network all the time. This innovative pilot project in the Montréal métro is part of that ongoing investment and effort."

"Thanks to its partnership with Bell, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) is pleased to be the first public transit company in Canada to offer this value-added service to its subway customers," said Claude Dauphin, chairman of the board of the STM. "With the métro being modernized, this is an excellent opportunity for us to test new technologies that promote seamless communications and efficiency in our underground network."

In a recent survey conducted by Bell Canada, 84% of riders noted that mobile phone service in the subway would be beneficial.

The pilot project will assess the different methods available to provide coverage and access to the 1X digital network inside the tunnels and in the stations. Data on the types of wireless usage by passengers will also be compiled. The 1X digital network is currently used by nearly 80% of Bell Canada's wireless customers.

http://www.cellular-news.com/story/11070.shtml