Alcatel-Lucent offers CDMA product for 700 MHz public safety

Alcatel-Lucent introduced a new CDMA2000 1x EV-DO Revision A-enabled base station for the 700 MHz spectrum band aimed at supporting the specific needs of public-safety organizations. The company said the technology will support high-speed access to data, images and video, and will provide users with push-to-talk and location-identification services.
The move is essentially a nod to the growing interest in supplying wireless products to public safety, which stands to gain extra spectrum as part of TV broadcasters’ transition to digital technology. According to Congress’ mandate on the topic, public safety is allotted some spectrum in the 700 MHz band while another chunk is set to be auctioned. However, several plans circling around Washington could ultimately add to the pool of 700 MHz spectrum for public safety.
Alcatel-Lucent also said its CDMA Modular Cell 4.0 Compact and Radio Network Controller will guarantee specific users access to the network when traffic may be high during a major catastrophic event. Such a feature is often discussed as part of various 700 MHz plans for public safety, including a plan proposed by Cyren Call Communications.
The French-American company says it is also developing network management software necessary to support public safety organizations with secure access to authenticated and encrypted services. The base station will be previewed at the upcoming CTIA 2007 trade show in Orlando, Fla.
“We’re pleased to be able to provide public safety organizations with a high-quality, reliable mobile network solution that leverages the power of our commercial platform. Public safety and other personnel will be impressed with the high-quality voice and the very high-speed capabilities,” said Mike Iandolo, president of Alcatel-Lucent’s CDMA/EV-DO endeavors.