Chipset Enables Combined 3G/UMA Handsets

Dec 17, 2008 10:57 AM, MD&D News Staff

ST-NXP Wireless has begun volume production of what it calls the world’s first UMA chipset platform. The Cellular System Solution 7210 UMA combines UMA and 3G technology in one solution, enabling handset makers to offer a wider range of high-speed handsets.

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With dual-mode 3G/UMA handsets, customers can seamlessly roam and handover between UMTS cellular networks, GSM/EDGE networks, and home or enterprise Wi-Fi access points. In addition to significant improvements in connectivity and voice quality, the 7210 UMA will deliver data speeds of more than 1 Mbit/s over UMA.

This capability means customers can use one device for fast Internet browsing, streaming video services, or access to social networks over the fastest available 3G or Wi-Fi network. When in range, users can take advantage of Wi-Fi to download content and make more affordable voice calls than they can over cellular networks.

The 7210 UMA integrates an ARM926-based GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS platform and a 3-Mpixel camera-sensor interface. It handles displays up to QVGA resolution and 18-bit color. The device supports H.263 and MPEG-4 30-fps CIF video recording and playback; H.264 15-fps QCIF playback, and MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, and WMA audio playback.

ST-NXP Wireless is a joint venture of STMicroelectronics and NXP Semiconductors. The company can ship the Cellular System 7210 UMA in high volumes now.