Trials Show Seamless 3G/Wi-Fi HandoffTrials Show Seamless 3G/Wi-Fi Handoff

LONDON — Nortel has completed trials with a Japanese network operator that the company says has proven the viability of seamless and secure roaming and hand-off between 3G cellular and Wi-Fi networks.

The test calls and UMTS/WLAN handover were done on the 1.7GHz frequency network operated by BB Mobile on a field site at Saitama.

Nortel says field tests such as these are crucial in demonstrating how operators like BB Mobile could potentially converge their existing DSL/wireline network with a wireless 3G network.

BB Mobile, a subsidiary of Softbank, has started trialing cellular technology in anticipation of being allocated commercial spectrum in the 1.7GHz to 2GHz range later this year.

Earlier this month Nortel also completed successful trials with the Japanese operator on high data rate HSDPA network, again at a field site at Saitama prefecture.

"This second demonstration with BB Mobile is an important step in meeting the demand for ubiquitous wireless broadband voice and data services regardless of network or device," said Peter MacKinnon, president GSM/UMTS, Nortel. "The success of the field trials also reinforces Nortel's commitment to working with service providers to develop and deliver high-quality wireless broadband solutions."