3G modules in Mobile Internet Devices

The Ericsson HSPA data solution is targeted at Intel's Moorestown platform and is scheduled for release in the 2009/10 timeframe. Based on the Intel® Atom(TM) processor, Moorestown is Intel's next-generation Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs) platform which will include HSPA as one of its wireless technologies.

Ericsson sees three waves of embedding mobile broadband in devices. First it was in notebooks then in "netbooks" (a smaller notebook for consumers) and now in consumer electronics, including the MIDs, GPS devices, gaming consoles and others.

Mats Norin, head of Ericsson’s Mobile Broadband Modules, says: “We see big potential in embedding mobile broadband in this type of device. We are optimizing our module to the Intel processors – minimizing the power consumption and supporting both Windows and Linux – and will launch a new smaller version next year.”

Ericsson is a main driver of building the mobile broadband eco system. At the Intel Developer Forum (IDF) event in san Francisco August 19-21 – visited by some 6000 people from the PC and telecom industry, partners and application developers, analysts and journalists – Ericsson’s demonstration of embedded mobile broadband modules working in an MID was an eye-opener for many.

For the downlink, 3Mbit/s was significant. And it was done in AT&T’s real 3G network.

Some consumer benefits of embedded 3G modules:

• Simple, no manual configuration

• Secure, built-in theft deterrence and protection of data
• Superior, optimized wireless performance and battery life
• Savings; fewer assets to handle