DISH invests in broadband satellite chipset
June 12, 2012
DISH has signed a collaboration with Qualcomm to enable support of satellite-based communications in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon S4 MSM8960 platform, the world’s first dual-core solution with an integrated multi-mode 3G/LTE modem, for use in future DISH wireless devices. The new satellite air interface technology developed by Qualcomm is a 3G-based standard referred to as Enhanced Geostationary Air Link (EGAL).
This initiative will enable the development of mobile handsets and devices for DISH that can operate in both terrestrial and satellite modes in the 2 GHz/AWS-4 band.
On June 1, the FCC closed its comment period regarding proposed rules that would provide additional flexibility for DISH to use their spectrum to deliver ground-based wireless broadband, in addition to the satellite and ancillary terrestrial communications the company is already licensed to provide.
DISH has called on the FCC to modify rules to facilitate widespread deployment of their spectrum for mobile use, as well as to preserve the mobile satellite service in this frequency.
“For DISH to be competitive in the wireless broadband space, it is critical that we are able to offer terrestrial broadband services to consumers,” said Tom Cullen, DISH executive vice president. “In addition, we see opportunities to serve specialized markets across the nation with satellite communications capability.”