Lee Gimpel

For as much hype as there has been around the deployment of third-generation - or 3G - wireless networks, the move has had many holding their breath. However, with the transitional 2.5G networks largely rolled out, the first pieces of the 3G puzzle are now being put in place. There's a fair amount of confusion surrounding what constitutes true 3G networks versus existing technology, which performs at what amounts to 2.5G levels that are a half step above second-generation networks but not quite 3G. The Federal Communications Commission defines 3G by the three-pronged capability to support circuit and packet data at 144 kilobits per second (Kbps) or higher in high-mobility (vehicular) traffic; 384Kbps for pedestrian traffic; or 2 megabits per second (Mbps ) or higher for indoor traffic. Although the current 2.5G networks that average between 20-80Kbps are noticeably ... (more)