Sierra Wireless has announced the launch of a suite of new products designed for LTE networks, which will provide users wireless access at download speeds of up to 100 megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds up to 50 Mbps. Out of the gate, the Sierra Wireless portfolio will support all major network technologies and offer compatibility with existing 2G and 3G services.
Leading Sierra Wireless’ new LTE product launch are three additions to the AirPrime MC Series of Intelligent Embedded Modules: the AirPrime MC7750, MC7700 and MC7710. The three variants offer different network technology and frequency band combinations, as well as support for both Linux and Windows, allowing manufacturers to develop products once and easily repurpose that development work for other regions and customers. The AirPrime MC7750 module supports LTE, EV-DO and HSPA+ networks, while the AirPrime MC7700 and MC7710 modules support LTE and HSPA+ in different frequency bands.
The new AirPrime MC Series embedded modules allow manufacturers to take advantage of the latest generation of high-speed mobile networks, delivering up to 100 Mbps download speeds and 50 Mbps upload speeds, integrated GPS capabilities, and broader compatibility than previous technologies. Compatibility with existing 2G and 3G networks ensures users stay connected whether they’re in major cities or traveling across the country, and supports international roaming.
The Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC series modules for LTE networks also support Qualcomm’s Gobi application programming interface (API). This interface helps streamline integration efforts, spur application development among third-party developers, and delivers greater flexibility to device manufacturers.
“Sierra Wireless’ new wireless modules use our industry-leading, multimode 3G/LTE MDM9200TM and MDM9600TM integrated chipsets to provide broadband connectivity via a wide range of mobile network technologies, including 2G, 3G and LTE networks,” said Fram Akiki, senior director of product management with Qualcomm CDMA Technologies. “Furthermore, these chipsets are compatible with Qualcomm’s Gobi API in order to deliver support for a growing ecosystem of software providers’ solutions for connectivity, location, and manageability, giving consumers new ways to leverage their mobile broadband connections.”
Manufacturers are already using these new capabilities to incorporate high-speed wireless connectivity into a variety of upcoming devices, including notebook, netbook, and tablet computers; connected consumer electronics products such as personal navigation devices; and home or enterprise-class routers. Sierra Wireless already has several design wins for these modules with multiple device manufacturers.
“With its unprecedented flexibility and throughput, LTE technology is opening up new opportunities for the next generation of mobile computing, multimedia, and HD video applications,” says Dan Schieler, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Mobile Computing for Sierra Wireless. “This series of intelligent embedded modules will help our customers take full advantage of new LTE network technologies and lead the industry in providing innovative products for this market.”
In addition to the new AirPrime MC Series embedded modules, Sierra Wireless plans to introduce new AirCard USB modems and mobile hotspots in the first half of 2011 that also support the latest LTE network technologies and data rates. As with the embedded modules, the new AirCard products will be backward-compatible with existing 2G and 3G networks to provide the widest coverage and best possible customer experience for end users as operators expand their LTE network roll-outs.
The AirPrime MC7750 and MC7700 modules are now sampling. The AirPrime MC7710 module is expected to be available for sampling during the first half of 2011. Test samples of Sierra Wireless’ new LTE AirCard products are expected to be available to operators and network infrastructure partners by end of 2010.