Article:

Nokia demonstrates world's first live High Speed Data Network

September 10, 1998    Company Press Release

Nokia today illustrated the advantages of its High Speed Circuit Switched Data (HSCSD) technology with a live demonstration at its test network in Helsinki, Finland. Applications on display included video on demand, music on demand, information services, large e-mail downloads, network games, re-broadcasting of television programs, and live video camera surveillance, all through a GSM network with HSCSD capability.

Nokia's HSCSD solution is the first of its kind to offer the possibility of boosting data speeds from the current 9.6. kbit/s to 14.4 kbit/s in a single traffic channel. By multiplexing up to four channels into a single time slot, operators will be able to offer transmission rates up to 57.6 kbit/s - six times more than currently available - and with the help of compression technology, data speeds can be increased even higher.

A feature unique to Nokia's HSCSD solution is that this high-speed data functionality is available in GSM networks without any base station hardware modifications, only the Nokia BSS7 software upgrade is needed. Flexible timeslot or bitrate upgrades and downgrades are available, ensuring no compromises in voice quality and capacity. All Nokia base stations are fully compatible with this feature. HSCSD builds on the proven GSM technology platform, allowing operators to increase network usage by offering new data services today.

The HSCSD solution is ideal for applications requiring constant bitrate and minimal transmission delay, putting GSM data on a par with existing PSTN modem services. As new data applications continue to emerge, an operator's competitive advantage will depend on being first to market with these applications. High-speed data is also a key building block in the evolution bridge to General Packet Radio Services (GPRS) and third generation mobile multimedia technology.

Nokia is a broad-scope communications company supplying mobile phones, mobile and fixed telecommunications networks, wireless data communications solutions, multimedia terminals and computer monitors. In 1997, net sales totaled FIM 52.6 billion ($9.8 billion). Headquartered in Finland, Nokia is listed on the NYSE (NOK.A), has sales in 130 countries and employs more than 41,000 people worldwide.

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