CTIA and the Wi-Fi Alliance on Tuesday released a document for laboratory tests that provides radio frequency performance mapping in a mixed-network environment. The organizations said the information gives mobile phone operators a new, independent source of data about the handsets they consider for use on their networks.
They also called the program a key milestone in the widespread adoption of Wi-Fi/mobile convergence. It will provide detailed information about the performance of the Wi-Fi radio in a converged handset, as well as how the cellular and Wi-Fi radios interact with one another. Testing will be conducted in top-tier independent laboratories authorized by CTIA and Wi-Fi Alliance.
Tested parameters include: transmit power, receive sensitivity, emitted power, and desensitization in the dual-mode environment.
“The new test program is another indicator of Wi-Fi’s widespread acceptance and growth from a traditionally PC technology to one that is now common in a variety of consumer devices, including mobile phones,” said Frank Hanzlik, managing director of the Wi-Fi Alliance. “Carriers have long relied on CTIA test programs to ensure that subscribers have the best user experience with the handsets they offer, and this program will provide important support as carriers launch their convergence offerings.
“Without this test program, carriers couldn’t be sure that a Wi-Fi/mobile phone would meet their rigorous specifications, but now they will have the data they need to select the handsets best suited for their networks,” added Robert Mesirow, CTIA’s vice president of operations.
CTIA www.ctia.org
The Wi-Fi Alliance www.wi-fi.org
