Wireless operators continue to line up behind one of the seven technologies that will be used for personal communications services, solidifying the formation of PCS technology camps and leading to several arms-length partnerships.
The most recent protocol announcement came from Southwestern Bell Mobile Systems Inc., which selected the Interim Standard-136 upbanded version of Time Division Multiple Access technology.
Southwestern Bell is building PCS networks in Little Rock, Ark., Memphis, Tenn., and Tulsa, Okla. The company also uses TDMA for its cellular networks.
This is the second PCS licensee to select TDMA, a technology that assigns users to a specific time position. The other TDMA proponent is AT&T Wireless Services, which plans to establish PCS service in 21 major markets.
The seven standards can be divided into high-tier or low-tier categories. High-tier technologies designed to provide extensive coverage include TDMA, Code Division Multiple Access and Global System for Mobile communications. Low-tier systems that specialize in in-building or on-campus communications include Personal Access Communications Systems and Digital European Cordless Telecommunications technology.
Omnipoint Corp. has created a technology that blends elements of TDMA, CDMA and GSM. InterDigital Communications Corp. intends to market its proprietary broadband CDMA technology.
Not only has the array of protocols sent companies into technology camps, but some smaller operators have arranged mutual working relationships with other companies in the same technology camp.
For instance, Pacific Bell Mobile Services recently said it intends to collaborate on numerous fronts with four other PCS license holders that will use GSM, namely BellSouth Personal Communications, Omnipoint Corp., Western Wireless and Powertel. The quartet will work jointly on product development, purchasing agreements, market research, SIM card application development and operational support systems.
Recently, Personal Access Communications Services equipment was promoted with great fanfare by a trio of companies including Hughes Network Systems Inc. The product is marketed as PACS Edge and will be available by second quarter 1996.
