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SOMA Networks and ArrayComm LLC have announced a joint development effort--SOMA Networks will integrate ArrayComm’s multi-antenna signal processing (MAS) software, including support of MIMO, AAS and combined MIMO/AAS modes, into SOMA’s FlexMAX Mobile WiMAX System. The combination of ArrayComm’s adaptive antenna software with SOMA’s fully converged, all-IP broadband wireless access solution will allow Mobile WiMAX network operators to benefit from the greatest possible cell range and coverage, increased spectral efficiencies and greater network capacity.

MAS technology is one of the key differentiators for Mobile WiMAX systems, enabling operators who deploy equipment based on the 802.16e-2005 standard to serve hard to reach, previously unwired, and underserved broadband markets. Operator economics are extremely challenging in last mile, broadband to the home (BTTH) deployments, especially in emerging and rural markets. Operators are often faced with harsh environmental conditions, as well as a widely dispersed and sparse customer base. MAS provides WiMAX systems with a next-generation competitive advantage that removes the barriers to serving the BTTH markets.

“SOMA Networks is committed to ensuring the FlexMAX Mobile WiMAX System integrates the best elements to meet the demanding performance requirements for successful BTTH market deployments,” said Tom Flak, SVP of Operations at SOMA Networks. “As a world-class, leading source of advanced antenna technologies, it was a natural choice for us to work with ArrayComm. By leveraging the best technology from the WiMAX ecosystem, we are able to optimize the performance of SOMA's products and offer our carrier customers the greatest benefits in a single system.”

SOMA’s specialization in macro-cellular coverage is greatly enhanced through the use of ArrayComm’s MAS software. By incorporating adaptive software, the FlexMAX System can dynamically select the best multi-antenna processing technique; either space time coding (STC), adaptive antenna system (AAS), multiple input, multiple output (MIMO), or enhanced versions of MIMO that include adaptive algorithms, on a user-by-user basis to maximize overall system performance. The results are:

- Delivery of two to four times more coverage and capacity, especially valuable in spectrum-constrained deployments.
- Overall reduction in the number of base stations required.
- Optimal performance in a variety of environments.

ArrayComm launched the first Wave 2-compliant MAS solution, and offers the industry's leading performance for two- or four-antenna architectures, using a unique combination of MIMO and adaptive interference cancellation technology. For wireless equipment manufacturers and operators, tapping ArrayComm’s unmatched 15 years of commercial deployment experience with MAS applications enables significant performance and time-to-market advantages while reducing development and deployment costs and technical risk.