VZW updates 700 MHz device specifications

Verizon Wireless’ plans to launch commercial LTE services this year will look to attract customers initially using data-intensive devices like PC cards and embedded modules, but the long-term growth of traffic on that network is expected to come from non-traditional devices.
During a Webcast updating the device developer community on standards it will require for those looking to launch devices that can attach to the carrier’s next-generation network, the carrier provided a few updates on the general plans for how it sees the network evolving.
As with the launch of 3G networks, Verizon Wireless expects data cards and embedded modules to be the focus of initial customer adoption and usage on the network. The carrier did note that it expects to have handsets ready for the network at or slightly after launch, though it added that as of yet there were no handsets currently certified for the network.
Verizon Wireless added that while data would be the initial focus of its LTE network voice over LTE was on its roadmap and in future plans. Voice over Internet Protocol-based services running over 3G networks have so far been on the back burner for carriers as many have said the current technology does not meet specific quality of service standards.
Another form factor the carrier thinks will drive significant growth on the network are non-traditional devices, saying it was going after a “broader device set.” Verizon Wireless has aggressively been pursuing the certification of non-traditional devices on its network through its Open Development Initiative that is targeting both its current 3G network as well as its LTE plans.
As for device requirements, Verizon Wireless said it was still focused on the 3GPP’s Release 8 specifications that will ensure backward compatibility with the previous standard the carrier announced in March 2009 after the LTE specifications were ratified. There was initial concern that Verizon Wireless’ use of a non-3GPP standard could limit compatibility of devices. Verizon Wireless also said that it would require LTE to CDMA handovers on certain devices so consumers could take advantage of its CDMA network if outside of LTE coverage.
Verizon Wireless also said that while its LTE network would operate on the 700 MHz band 13 spectrum, it would be up to device manufacturers if they wanted to include additional band support. AT&T Mobility is reportedly asking device manufacturers to support the 700 MHz band 17 that it has access to for its LTE network. There has been some concern expressed by other 700 MHz spectrum holders that these band requirements could leave them out of the loop on the availability of compatible devices.
“It’s up to the device makers to include bands,” Verizon Wireless noted during the Webcast.
Prior to the Webcast, Verizon Wireless announced that Spirent Communications was the first company selected to provide device certification for its LTE network. The carrier said it expects to name additional testing partners later this year.