Ubertino
15 years ago
InnovaRadio Teams Up with Unique Broadband Systems Ltd to Bring Green Innovative Adaptive Pre-Correction Solutions to Market
Vaughan, Canada, January 26, 2010 --(PR.com)-- Unique Broadband System Ltd. (UBS), a major developer of COFDM technology and applications has been selected by InnovaRadio to supply its leading universal modulation platform in order to integrate InnovaRadio’s innovative adaptive precorrection solution.
UBS designs and manufactures the most advanced universal modulation platform currently available in the market. UBS Universal Modulator Series utilizes the innovative UBS Universal Waveform engine, supporting all world standards for mobile and terrestrial OFDM digital broadcast. The Universal Modulator can be factory configured to support one, two or all of the leading broadcasting standards’ waveforms such as DVB-T, DVB-H, DVB-SH, DAB/T-DMB, CMMB, DTMB, ATSC and ISDB-T/Tb. The user can easily switch from one waveform to another, using just software selection. UBS’s modulators can also be field upgraded as standards evolve, offering a future proof solution.
This open architecture design enables carriers to take advantage of a proven robust platform, while designing networks to meet current and future broadcast standards. The series incorporate all of UBS high performance signal processing stages combined with remote firmware and waveform upgrades.
“UBS is proud to drive innovation through this partnership with InnovaRadio as their technological supplier,” says David Dane, President and Chief Executive Officer of UBS. “We are excited to bring our leading edge platform to InnovaRadio and to contribute to their success, while reducing their time-to-market.”
InnovaRadio’ strategy is to provide the wireless industry with the most efficient, sustainable and cost effective technology for RF Power Amplifiers. InnovaRadio has developed the most advanced adaptive pre-correction solution and, through the cooperation with UBS, is integrating its solution into a UBS Universal Modulator.
“Concluding a thorough market research, our decision to team up with UBS was motivated by several reasons,” says Mahmud Samandari, Chief Executive Officer. “InnovaRadio’s Team was impressed by UBS business acumen, technological flexibility and its leading Universal Modulator platform, offering a future proof solution that expands InnovaRadio’s solution marketability. The level of professionalism and the great support and responsiveness of both their Engineering and Sales Team made us confident that we had chosen the right partner. This is a perfect match: UBS’s Universal Modulator platform and InnovaRadio’s unique pre-correction solution.”
About InnovaRadio
Founded in February 2009 and located in Geneva (Switzerland), InnovaRadio brings innovative solutions to the Radio industry. InnovaRadio’s core business is to offer novel, patented, green solutions to overcome RF Power Amplifier Industry’s bottlenecks such as efficiency and cost concerns. For further information please contact Mahmud Samandari, Chief Executive Officer at Mahmud.Samandari@InnovaRadio.com
About Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd. (UBS) is a privately owned and operated world-leading designer and manufacturer of Wireless Digital & Audio Broadcasting technologies which has deployed systems and solutions for Terrestrial, Satellite & Mobile Multi-Media carriers and operators on five continents around the globe.
UBS’s head office, design and manufacturing plant is located in Toronto, Ontario (Canada), with 100% owned subsidiaries in Beijing China and the United States and sales and service depots in Pisa (Italy), Barcelona (Spain) and Paris (France).
For further information please visit www.uniquesys.com or www.ubs-europe.com or contact Philippe Vermande at philippev@uniquesys.com.
###
Contact Information
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
Philippe Vermande
905-669-8533
philippe@uniquesys.com
http://www.uniquesys.com
Ubertino
15 years ago
UBS DVB-SH Technology Driving Innovation in Germany
Toronto, Canada, October 22, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Unique Broadband System Ltd. (UBS), a major developer of COFDM technology and applications, is proud to bring its solid expertise in the DVB-SH technology by participating in the roll-out and launch of the first DVB-SH network in Germany.
This project is driven by Fraunhofer-Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS, the Chair of Information Technologies (LIKE) at Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and CIRCOM Regional.
It aims at deploying and evaluating a complete end-to-end DVB-SH network in order to test the technology and carry out further research and development activities. These activities will consist of comprehensive field trials in the area of Erlangen and Nuremberg. The studies will be complemented by the evaluation of DVB-SH services and their distribution. To support the promotion of DVB-SH technology, Fraunhofer IIS has also developed its own DVB-SH receiver equipment.
“The launch of the first DVB-SH network in Germany is the result of Fraunhofer IIS and LIKE involvement in the testing of this new technology over the past few years,” said Prof. Heinz Gerhäuser. “Achieving this major milestone is demonstrating our leadership and innovation capabilities and we believe will support the roll-out of the DVB-SH technology in the market place.”
UBS’s participation in the first ever DVB-SH network launch in Germany is a recognition of the proven know-how in the design and manufacturing of DVB-SH transmission equipment that UBS holds” – says David Dane, President and CEO of UBS. “We are honored that Fraunhofer IIS and LIKE can leverage the expertise UBS gained through the thorough testing of its DVB-SH transmission equipment over more than one year as part of UBS involvement in the J-Ortigia Project.”
“UBS is convinced that this leading initiative in Germany will significantly contribute to the testing and commercial deployment of the DVB-SH technology in Europe” – underlines David Dane.
About Press Conference at Fraunhofer IIS
During the Press Conference that took place on October 6th 2009 at Fraunhofer IIS, the first live demonstration of DVB-SH technology was successfully made using UBS designed and manufactured DVB-SH Transmitter technology. In the photo, putting the DVB-SH transmitter into operation: Peter Sauer, General Secretary CIRCOM Regional, Prof. Heinz Gerhäuser, Head of Fraunhofer Institute IIS and Chair of Information Technologies; Dr. Elisabeth Preuß, Major of the city of Erlangen, Wolfgang Geus, Municipal energy supplier Erlangen
About Fraunhofer IIS
Founded in 1985 the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS in Erlangen, today with 650 staff members, ranks first among the Fraunhofer Institutes concerning headcount and revenues. As the inventor of mp3 and co-inventor of the MPEG4 AAC audio coding standard, Fraunhofer IIS has reached worldwide recognition. It provides research services on contract basis and technology licensing.
The research topics are: Audio and video source coding, multimedia real-time systems, digital radio broadcasting and digital cinema systems, integrated circuits and sensor systems, design automation, wireless, wired and optical networks, localization and navigation, imaging systems and nanofocus X-ray technology, high-speed cameras, medical sensor solutions and supply chain services. The budget of 80 million Euro is mainly financed by projects from industry, the service sector and public authorities. Less than 25 percent of the budget is subsidized by federal and state funds.
For further information please visit www.iis.fraunhofer.de, or contact: Marc Briele at marc.briele@iis.fraunhofer.de
About Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd. (UBS) is a privately owned and operated world-leading designer and manufacturer of Wireless Digital & Audio Broadcasting technologies which has deployed systems and solutions for Terrestrial, Satellite & Mobile Multi-Media carriers and operators on five continents around the globe.
UBS’s head office, design and manufacturing plant relocated in Toronto, Ontario (Canada), 100% owned subsidiaries in Beijing China and the United States and sales and service depots in Pisa - Italy and Barcelona - Spain.
For further information please visit www.uniquesys.com or www.ubs-europe.com or contact Philippe Vermande at philippev@uniquesys.com.
About Chair of Information Technologies with Focus on Communication Electronics LIKE
The Chair of Information Technologies with Focus on Communication Electronics (German abbreviation: LIKE) addresses a wide range of topics in the area of information and media technologies: digital broadcasting, identification and localization of objects, navigation, embedded systems, man-machine and machine-machine communication interfaces.
LIKE was founded in 1999 as a chair endowed by the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Heinz Gerhäuser has been Leading Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS since 1993. Close collaboration between Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and LIKE based on a cooperation treaty with the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg opens new perspectives for research projects in information technology.
LIKE offers a range of lectures, seminars and practical courses which are integrated within the main study courses “Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Information Technology,” “Computer Science” and “Information and Communication Technologies.”
For further information please visit www.like.eei.uni-erlangen.de, or contact: Nives Berner at berner@like.eei.uni-erlangen.de
http://www.pr.com/press-release/187887
Ubertino
15 years ago
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd Expands in Europe
Toronto, Canada, September 10, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Unique Broadband System Ltd. (UBS), a major developer of COFDM technology and applications, is pleased to announce the launch of UBS Europe, during the IBC Trade Show in Amsterdam, September 11th through the 15th.
This strategic development recognizes the need for pan-European coverage for continued growth and allows UBS to provide even better and faster technical, marketing and commercial support to its growing customer base in Europe.
This natural expansion leverages from Unique Broadband Systems Ltd's current success and involvement in major DVB projects such as the J-ORTIGIA DVB-SH pilot networks for which UBS designed and manufactured the DVB-SH Terrestrial Repeaters allowing live mobile TV broadcasting.
The UBS Europe Team along with David Dane, President & CEO and Dr. Karen Safaryan, Vice President will be eager to meet you at IBC in the Mobile Zone stand M232/233 during UBS-Europe's grand opening celebration. The UBS-Europe teams are based out of Barcelona (Spain) and Pisa (Italy). The Paris (France) expansion is on-track to be operational by December 2009.
About Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd. (UBS) is a privately owned and operated company with its head office located in Toronto (Canada), 100% owned subsidiary UBS (Beijing) Technologies Limited in China, Unique Broadband Systems Inc. in California (USA), UBS Europe in Barcelona (Spain), Pisa (Italy) and Paris (France) by the end of 2009, world-leading designer and manufacturer of Wireless Digital & Audio Broadcasting technologies, has deployed systems and solutions for Terrestrial, Satellite & Mobile Multi-Media carriers and operators on five continents around the globe. For further information, you can reach us on http://www.ubs-europe.com or http://www.uniquesys.com
Contact Information:
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
Philippe Vermande
905-669-8533
philippe@uniquesys.com
http://www.uniquesys.com
http://newsblaze.com/story/2009091000030200012.pr/topstory.html
Ubertino
15 years ago
Key DVB-SH Trials Advancing with Unique Broadband Systems Technology
Toronto, Canada, June 09, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Unique Broadband System Ltd. (UBS), a major developer of COFDM technology and applications, was paramount to the successful completion of Phase 1 and 2 of the J-Ortigia project. The project’s goal is to develop the practical aspect of Digital Video Broadcast Satellite to Handheld (DVB-SH) technology.
DVB-SH is a relatively new standard which provides a hybrid satellite-terrestrial broadcast network for mobile multimedia services to handsets. The pilot networks rolled-out in Italy, Spain and Japan in the frame of the J-Ortigia project constitute a unique opportunity to integrate and test a range of proven equipment providing an end-to-end DVB-SH system.
The J-Ortigia project, co-funded by the European Space Agency, is aimed at providing technology trials from April 2008 until September 2009 in order to carry out extensive testing and measurement campaigns. The J-Ortigia consortium constitutes an ecosystem which brings together partners from the whole value chain such as satellite and terrestrial operators (Eutelsat, SES Astra and Abertis Telecom), equipment designers and manufacturers (UBS and Fraunhofer IIS), radio network system integrator (MBI), radio network planning provider (AWE) and research centers (DLR). Phase 1 and 2 of the J-Ortigia Project was consisting of technology trials conducted since early April 2008 for a period of one year in Italy, Spain and Japan. The fruitful results obtained during those campaigns allowed the approval of the Phase 3, starting April 2009 during which full DVB-SHA and DVB-SHB configurations will be tested.
As part of this collaboration, UBS is the principal supplier of state-of-the-art DVB-SH terrestrial repeaters. Throughout the project, UBS demonstrated its market leadership with the design and manufacture of a range of innovative low to medium power S-Band Terrestrial Repeaters in order to meet the requirements of the complementary ground components of the DVB-SH pilot networks deployed. UBS also provided continuous engineering support, both remotely as well as on-site, during every trial session.
"UBS’ involvement in the most advanced DVB-SH field trials in Italy, Spain and Japan demonstrates its solid technological expertise and capability to contribute to an early introduction of end-to-end validated DVB-SH systems", says David Dane, President and CEO of UBS. "We are convinced that the dynamic cooperation we have put in place during the J-Ortigia project will be instrumental in strengthening DVB-SH systems as an alternative technology in the Mobile Television market."
About Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd. (UBS) is a privately owned and operated company with its head office located in Toronto, Ontario (Canada), 100% owned subsidiary UBS (Beijing) Technologies Limited in China world-leading designer and manufacturer of Wireless Digital & Audio Broadcasting technologies, has deployed systems and solutions for Terrestrial, Satellite & Mobile Multi-Media carriers and operators on five continents around the globe. www.uniquesys.com. For further information, please contact Philippe Vermande at philippev@uniquesys.com.
###
Contact Information
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
Philippe Vermande
905-669-8533
philippe@uniquesys.com
http://www.uniquesys.com
hopson
16 years ago
EARN EXTRA MONEY AS SEEN ON OPRAH AND 20/20
______________________________________ ...
Dear Friend,
You probably have seen this before, but it really does work. Give it a try -- think of how you waste $6 in a day, week or month. It's a minor investment with great rewards. This might $6 investment could actually change your life!
If you could start your own mail order list with an investment of
$6.00, and make $800,000 over the next
year would you do it?
_____________________________________
***Proven by various, highly-respected U.S. TV and Radio programs as being 100% legal, feasible and true.***
***Oprah Winfrey and ABC's investigation team 20/20 also proved it can be done.***
IF A 15 YEAR OLD BOY COULD MAKE $71,000 IN JUST 5 WEEKS AND OTHERS $250,000 IN A FEW MORE WEEKS -- SO CAN YOU !!!
Would you like to make $71,000 OR $250,000 in a few weeks?
As seen on the Oprah Winfrey show and ABC's 20/20
REQUIREMENTS: You must have a confirmed PayPal account. If you do not have a PayPal account you can go to www.paypal.com and follow the instructions to set up a free account. PayPal is 100% secure and is used by millions of people world wide.
[STEP 1]
Send, through PayPal, $1.00 to each email on the below list. Here
are the latest PayPal e-mails on the e-mail lists:
1. laura.palugod@gmail.com
2. refineprincess@yahoo.com
3. ashifer812@yahoo.com
4. salisguy23@gmail.com
5. thenyrican2000@yahoo.com
6. bobbymillion1@yahoo.com
Subject of Payment: ***Email List***
Comments: ***PLEASE PUT ME ON YOUR EMAIL LIST***
[STEP 2]
Now take the #1) email off the list that you see above, move the other addresses up one (6 becomes 5 & 5 becomes 4, etc) then put YOUR email address (the one used in your PayPal account) as #6 on the list. **MAKE SURE THE EMAIL YOU SUPPLY IS EXACTLY AS IT APPEARS IN YOUR PAYPAL ACCOUNT**
[STEP 3]
Change anything you need to, but try to keep this article as close to the original as possible. Now, post your amended article to at least 200 newsgroups, message boards, etc. (I think there are close to 32,000 groups) All you need is 200, but remember, the more you post, the more money you make - as well as everyone else on the list!
You are getting paid for a service, the sender of the money asks you to ?Please add me to your list?, Therefore it is legal. Remember to send a dollar to the above names or this is considered illegal.
If you have any doubts, refer to Title 18 Sec. 1302 and 1241 of
the Postal Lottery laws.
Keep a copy of these steps for yourself and, whenever you need
money, you can use it again and again.
DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO POST TO NEWSGROUPS/MESSAGE BOARDS.
[Step 1]
You do not need to re-type this entire letter to do your own posting. Simply copy this entire article and paste it in a notepad and save it as a txt file, which includes your mail id in the sixth place
Use Netscape or Internet Explorer and try searching for various newsgroups, on-line forums, message boards, bulletin boards, chat sites, discussions, discussion groups, online communities, etc. EXAMPLE: go to any search engine like yahoo.com, google.com,
altavista.com, excite.com, then search with subjects like "millionaire message board" or "money making message board" or "opportunity message board" or "money making discussions" or "business bulletin board" or "money making forum" etc.
Visit these message boards and post this article as a new message by highlighting the text of this letter and selecting 'Paste' from the 'Edit' menu. Fill in the Subject, this will be the header that everyone sees as they scroll thru the list of postings in a particular group,
click the post message button. You're done with your first one! Congratulations and don't forget to "pay it forword"!
$treet Trader
16 years ago
Evaluation and discussions continue for the sale of Look's assets
3/10/2009 8:30 AM - Canada NewsWire
TORONTO, Mar 10, 2009 (Canada NewsWire via COMTEX News Network) --
Unique Broadband Systems, Inc. (the "Company") (TSX Venture: UBS) today announced that its 51 per cent controlled subsidiary Look Communications Inc. ("Look") (TSX Venture: LOK and LOK.A), together with Grant Thornton Limited, the Monitor, is continuing its analysis, evaluation and discussions for the sale of some or all, in whole or in part, of Look's assets pursuant to the Sales Process Order approved by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice on January 21, 2009.
If an agreement or agreements are executed with one or more purchasers for Look's assets, Look will seek a Final Approval Order from the Court to approve any transaction, or series of transactions. Any transaction may be subject to various closing approvals, though no other shareholder approvals are necessary for any asset sale.
<< About Unique Broadband Systems, Inc. ------------------------------------ >>
UBS is a publicly listed Canadian company that has a 51.8% fully diluted economic interest in Look Communications Inc. and other assets. With its licensed spectrum through its subsidiary, Look, UBS is a Canadian digital television broadcaster and broadband wireless service provider. The Company's website may be found at www.uniquebroadband.com.
<< About Look Communications Inc. ------------------------------ >>
Look's mission has been to be an M3 - Mobile Multi Media - communications, entertainment and information service provider in Ontario and Qu�bec. Look currently delivers a full range of communications services including high-speed and dial-up Internet access, digital television distribution, and superior customer service to both the business and residential markets. Look provides its digital television distribution and wireless Internet services using its approximately 100 MHz of Multipoint Distribution System spectrum in the 2.5 to 2.7 GHz frequency band covering approximately 18 million people (1.8 billion MHz/Pops) in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. Look's shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbols "LOK" for Multiple Voting Shares and "LOK.A" for Subordinate Voting Shares. Look's website may be found at www.look.ca.
<< Forward looking statements -------------------------- >>
The corporate information contained in this release includes forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance of the Company that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable by the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect. The actual results achieved may vary from the information provided herein and the variations may be material. Consequently, there is no representation by the Company that actual results achieved will be the same in whole or in part as those forecasts.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
%SEDAR: 00010550E
SOURCE: Unique Broadband Systems, Inc.
Peter Block, E-mail: irinfo@uniquebroadband.com, (647) 259-3284
Copyright (C) 2009 CNW Group. All rights reserved.
Ubertino
16 years ago
Press releases from Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
UBS Unveils Next-Generation CMMB Multiplexer
Toronto, Canada, February 13, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Unique Broadband Systems Ltd. (UBS), award winner of most innovative product in China; BIRTV - 08, proudly announced that it has released its second generation of CMMB compliant Multiplexers.
“This CMMB Multiplexor is a truly unique product, packed with features not offered by any other manufacturer in the world today.” says David Dane, President and CEO of UBS. ”These multiplexers are a proud addition to our outstanding line of digital broadcasting products.”
The goal of the UBS team of engineers and designers was to improve the CMMB Multiplexer in the areas of reliability, versatility, delivery time and cost to the end customer, a difficult challenge, although necessary, to provide a technological advancement to the digital community.
Although this product is a functional “drop-in” replacement for the first generation of CMMB multiplexers, there were a few distinct improvements made in this release of the product.
To improve reliability, delivery time and cost, UBS designed the CMMB Multiplexor around its latest hardware release, “Universal-Platform” on which the new multiplexers are mass manufactured. UBS’s new universal platform had previously proved itself in commercial application, such as the CMMB, DTMB, DAB, DVB-T and DVB-SH modulator released in the first half of 2008. By reducing the number of separate subassemblies and their interconnections, UBS has simultaneously managed to increase product reliability, deliver time and cost/selling price by almost 50%.
The new hardware now occupies only half the rack “footprint” its predecessor did, fitting into a single rack unit (RU being 1.75”) of a standard commercial 19” rack. This optimizes the rack space utilization at customer sites, allowing customers to add other equipment in the same rack. The new multiplexer also reduces the power consumption to a third of the first generation devices, a savings to the customer in the ongoing operating costs.
In addition to space and power savings, the new line of multiplexers supports up to 4 ASI output streams. While most current competitor equipment only supports a one to one relationship between multiplexer and modulator, UBS multiplexers allow the output to be delivered to up to 4 different CMMB modulators. This allows content transmission to be made available on up to 4 different frequencies.
UBS multiplexers are fully compliant with today’s hybrid transmission system requirements. This platform is satellite ready and is designed to perform the vital role of synchronization between terrestrial and satellite transmission equipment.
For further information please go to www.uniquesys.com or contact Mr. Bill Song at bills@uniquesys.com, 1-877-669-8533 ext 109
###
Contact Information
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd.
Bill Song
905-669-8533
bills@uniquesys.com
http://www.uniquesys.com
Ubertino
16 years ago
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd. Provides Terrestrial Repeaters to Allow Solaris Mobile to Demonstrate DVB-SH Live Mobile TV During the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona
Toronto, Canada, February 12, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Unique Broadband System Ltd. (UBS), a world leader in the development of COFDM technology and applications, is teaming-up with major players from the DVB-SH marketplace such as Abertis Telecom, Eutelsat Communications, SES Astra, Solaris Mobile, Quantum, Calearo and Thomson Grass Valley for the roll-out and demonstration of a major DVB-SH pilot network operating in S-band during the Mobile World Congress from February 16th to 19th 2009.
....
http://www.pr.com/press-release/132113
Ubertino
16 years ago
Solaris Ready To Launch Live Mobile Television Broadcasting
Mobile Technology
Tue, 10th, Feb 2009
Solaris Mobile is set to launch live mobile television broadcasting demonstrations at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.
The European pioneer company, located in Ireland and its international technology partners, will provide mobile TV solutions based on the DVB-SH (hybrid satellite/terrestrial standard) by moving vehicles on two different demonstration platforms and on its Booth AV05a to next generation handsets and multimedia players.
The In-car Infotainment services will be demonstrated within a fleet of 5 Mercedes E Class Series cars provided by the partner Europcar. Each car is equipped with the same set-up, including two embedded screens for the rear seats and one embedded screen in the dashboard. While travelling around Barcelona, passengers will have the chance to enjoy, without any interruptions, a selection of live premium TV-channels, such as Euronews and Eurosport. Abertis Telecom, the leading provider of broadcast and telecommunications infrastructure in Spain, has joined with Solaris Mobile to provide seamless coverage of the TV Broadcast Channels to the City of Barcelona and its surrounding areas from its telecom towers. These towers are equipped with the Unique Broadband Systems Ltd terrestrial repeaters.
At the Mobile World Congress, visitors will be able to access the broadcast and infotainment service at the Solaris Mobile stand. The broadcasts will be demonstrated in partnership with Alcatel-Lucent in the car, using Quantum receivers and Calearo antennas and also on handsets and portable multimedia players, provided by Sagem Wireless and Archos. This will perfectly display the future of mobile broadcasting for Europe.
As the first provider in Europe, Solaris Mobile will soon be able to offer a completely new and powerful network for Mobile TV, In-car Entertainment & Information and other communication services by operating in the new dedicated spectrum S-band; which is located near the UMTS frequencies and exclusively reserved for mobile satellite services. The launch of the first S-band payload on board the Eutelsat satellite W2A is scheduled for March 2009. With this S-band payload using the DVB-SH hybrid satellite/terrestrial standard Solaris Mobile can provide a unique, powerful network offering seamless coverage across Europe. By using additional terrestrial base stations, the system reaches into tunnels, urban landscapes and also indoor locations. It can operate on a one-to-one (unicast) and one-to-many (multicast) basis and can be simply integrated into handhelds, mobile and automotive TV screens or video players.
Content providers will be able to deliver broadcast-quality live TV, linear and on-demand content to location-based services, for example, video or radio channels, to mobile phones, vehicles, iPods, portable DVD players, game consoles and other handsets. By introducing this brand new infrastructure and technology for mobile solutions, Solaris Mobile will be a cost-effective, flexible and unrivalled catalyst for new services, helping to reshape the mobile landscape for all of Europe.
Together with key industrial partners and media players, Solaris Mobile is actively establishing a harmonized ecosystem to optimize its next generation network. The Solaris Mobile partner list includes leading companies such as, Alcatel-Lucent, Abertis Telecom, Archos, Audemat, Calearo, DiBcom, Europcar, Quantum, Sagem Wireless, Team Cast, UDcast, Thomson, UBS, Expway and Nagravision.
http://www.broadcastbuyer.tv/publish/Mobile_Technology_64/Solaris_Ready_To_Launch_Live_Mobile_Television_Broadcasting_18807.shtml
Ubertino
16 years ago
UBS CMMB Modulator Wins Innovation Award at BIRTV 2008
Unique Broadband System Ltd. (UBS), a world leader in the development of COFDM technology and applications has been presented with the prestigious BIRTV New Media Innovation Award for UBS’ new CMMB 5000 modulator.
Designed to meet the most demanding requirements of today’s Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcast Market, the CMMB 5000 from UBS is ranked number one in its class. The core function of the CMMB 5000 is to modulate a multiplex transport stream (input) onto a CMMB compliant COFDM spectrum (output) in accordance with the rules for channel coding and modulation specified in the CMMB GY/T 220.1/2006 and GY/T 220.2/2006 Standards.
Mr. Zhou Yi, Chief engineer, China Radio International and review committee expert responsible for the appraisal of products, techniques and applications project at BIRTV confirmed: “The UBS CMMB modulator is the only product of its kind which based on a hardware and software platform with all major components developed by the same manufacturer, ensuring unparalleled operational stability, consistency and full compliance with the CMMB standard GY/T220.1-2006 and GY/T220.2-2006, supporting MFN and SFN.” Mr. Zhou went on stating “The digital and RF parameters are excellent. Since the beginning of the SARFT CMMB evaluation project end of 2007 covering 37 cities, where UBS’ had been awarded 5 of a total of 11 sub-projects, all UBS CMMB modulators have been in service operating flawlessly without a single hardware fault to date.”
“We are honored by BIRTV’s award committee’s recognition of the level of innovation and product quality that we offer,” stated Vincent Zhao, General Manager, UBS (Beijing) Technologies Limited. Mr. David M. Dane, President and CEO of UBS Ltd., commented: “This award reinforces our commitment on being a world-class provider of advanced products and services to the television broadcast industry in China as well as on a global scale.”
About BIRTV
BIRTV is China’s most prestigious exhibition in the industry of radio, film and TV and a key part of China International Radio Film & Television Exposition. It is also the only one of such exhibitions which gains support from China government and is listed number one among the supported exhibitions in China’s 11th Five Year’s Developing Plan of Culture. http://www.birtv.com
About Unique Broadband Systems Ltd. (UBS)
Unique Broadband Systems Ltd. (UBS) is a privately owned and operated company with its head office located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada and 100% owned subsidiary UBS (Beijing) Technologies Limited in China. UBS, a world-leading designer and manufacturer of Wireless Digital Video & Audio Broadcasting technologies, has deployed systems and solutions for Terrestrial, Satellite & Mobile Multi-Media carriers and operators on five continents around the globe. http://www.UniqueSys.com
http://pr-usa.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=148698&Itemid=29
Ubertino
16 years ago
Look Communications starts mobile WiMAX test
By: Howard Solomon - Network World Canada (04 Nov 2008)
Look Communications has embarked on the latest attempt to re-invent the struggling service provider by starting a mobile WiMAX technical trial in a suburb west of Toronto.
The wireless broadband company said Monday that it has set up a limited test in its hometown of Milton, Ont., to show off the feasibility of the 802.16e technology for mobile TV, high speed Internet and voice over IP over spectrum it now owns.
According to vice-chair and CEO Gerry McGoey, because there aren’t any mobile WiMAX handsets and only a few mobile WiMAX PCM cards for laptops, the trial consists of a PC-equipped van that can roam around the town of 65,000 showing the ability to receive and transmit while moving. That will expand once the number of 802.16e devices increases, he said.
So why test now? Partly, it’s because the equipment for mobile WiMAX is starting to come on the market from manufacturers like Motorola, Look’s partner in the test. It’s also because mobile WiMAX has been in the news since September, when Sprint-Clearwire began commercial testing of mobile WiMAX service called Xohm in several U.S. cities.
Look wants to bring what it calls mobile multimedia broadband services to southern Ontario and Quebec, where the company has spectrum. “So we thought in order to raise capital and show out customers and shareholders the assets we have, we’ll run a trial,” he said.
“We believe mobile broadband will replace mobile voice,” said McGoey, who is also chair of Look’s controlling shareholder, telecom equipment maker Unique Broadband Systems (UBS). “Mobile voice will be just one of many applications on mobile broadband."
But it may be a few years before Look subscribers can buy that service. That’s because what Look only has now are fixed and mobile broadcast WiMAX licences in the 2.6GHz to 2.7GHz band, which for years it has been using to sell fixed wireless TV and DSL Internet service. To bring mobile high speed data and voice services, those fixed licences will have to be converted by Industry Canada to two-way mobile licences.
McGoey said Industry Canada will exchange the licences “on demand,” with the condition that the licence holder giving back some spectrum to the government for future auction. He also said Industry Canada will automatically convert all broadcast WiMAX licences to mobile licences in August, 2011. At press time a spokesman for Industry Canada could not be reached to confirm those interpreations.
Winnipeg-based Craig Wireless says it asked Industry Canada in February to change some of the fixed broadcast WiMAX licences it owns covering parts of British Columbia and Manitoba to mobile licences so it can initiate mobile WiMAX-based services. So far it is still waiting for the government’s response, company chair Drew Craig said in an interview Monday.
McGoey wouldn’t say how long the current mobile engineering trial will last, or when it will become a commercial trial. Nor would he say when or if Look will apply to convert its licences. That depends in part on whether Look partners with other companies or how much equity it can raise, he said.
According to its latest annual report, as of the end of its last fiscal year in August, 2007 Look had 16,000 digital television subscribers, 25,000 Internet subscribers, and 11,000 hosting subscribers. However, on Oct. 24 it sold the Web hosting and Internet domain business for $3.8 million to Bluegenesis.com Corp, a provider based in Mississauga, Ont. and Ft. Lauderdale, Fl.
Of the 25,000 Internet subscribers, 15,000 were dial-up customers and 10,000 were high speed. The net loss for fiscal 2007 was $11.9 million, compared with $6.6 million in fiscal 2006. In July it reported a third quarter loss of $2 million on revenue of $4.9 million. Look shares, traded on the Toronto Venture exchange, have been up as high as 68 cents in the past 52 weeks and as low as 10 cents. On Monday they were trading at 18 cents.
Look and Craig Wireless aren’t the only WiMAX licence holders in this country interested in mobile broadband. Primus Canada has been testing 802.16e technology in Hamilton for several months. Look has some 100Ghz of broadcast WiMAX spectrum, McGoey said, although the company hasn’t been able to do much with it.
Initially, Look marketed fixed broadband Internet service to underserved communities. In 1999 it amalgamated with Internet Direct. But in 2002 it had to reorganize, which is when UBS began investing in the company. By 2003, UBS had acquired just over 51 per cent of the shares.
Last year Look announced another reorganization, transferring assets into a wholly- owned entity to preserve some $630 million in tax losses. Minority shareholder Bell Canada tried and failed to fight the move.
http://www.itworldcanada.com/a/Daily-News/a6e5b223-d5df-4d38-9b56-ac8b6116bbd8.html
Ubertino
16 years ago
Look & Motorola launch mobile (4G) broadband in Milton, Ontario
Monday November 3, 8:30 am ET
TORONTO, Nov. 3 /CNW/ - Unique Broadband Systems, Inc. (the "Company") (TSX Venture: UBS - News) announced today that Look Communications Inc. ("Look") (TSX Venture: LOK - News and LOK.A - News), its 51 per cent controlled subsidiary, has commenced a WiMAX IEEE 802.16e-Wave2 trial in Milton, Ontario, using Motorola, Inc.'s latest WiMAX equipment. Look's WiMAX system utilizes the latest in 4G (Fourth Generation) technologies, offering a wide variety of mobile services such as high quality Broadcast Television, High Speed Internet and VoIP.
To date, WiMAX has been deployed in more than 100 countries around the globe with great success. In Canada, Look is one of the first to offer a completely mobile WiMAX trial network capable of delivering an experience and speeds equivalent to land-based DSL and cable internet connections. No existing 3G cellular network in Canada can match this consumer experience.
Current WiMAX devices range from mobile handhelds, PCMCIA cards, USB dongles and laptop computers with embedded WiMAX chips. This breadth of devices allows consumers to customize their mobile requirements whether they are at home, at the office, at the cottage or on the road.
Rather than being constrained by the geographic limitations of WiFi, WiMAX allows operators to blanket an entire city or region to offer completely seamless connectivity.
Look can demonstrate this disruptive technology using a state of the art WiMAX demonstration vehicle located at its head office in Milton, Ontario. Passengers can view high quality television with an interactive guide, view video on demand (VOD), place voice calls, browse the internet, and achieve internet speeds capable of 6 Megabits per second while traveling at highway speeds. Other devices such as handhelds and WiMAX embedded laptops are also available for demonstration.
Look believes that WiMAX will give consumers an unparalleled experience that is currently not offered by any mobile or cellular operator in Canada. Look's unique combination of its mobile broadcast license, along with its approximately 100 MHz of spectrum in the 2.6 to 2.7GHz band, allows Mobile WiMAX to become a reality in Canada today.
About WiMAX
WiMAX is a broadband wireless access technology that enables connectivity through wireless networks for fixed, nomadic or mobile use in urban, suburban and rural areas. The technology offers a cost-effective broadband access alternative where DSL is unavailable for technical or economical reasons or a last-mile alternative to unbundling for operators who are offering a combination of voice and broadband access for next generation of wireless devices.
WiMAX, WiMAX Forum, the WiMAX Forum logo, WiMAX Forum Certified, and the WiMAX Forum Certified logo are trademarks of the WiMAX Forum. All other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.
About Unique Broadband Systems, Inc.
------------------------------------
UBS is a publicly listed Canadian company that has a 51.7 per cent fully
diluted economic interest in Look Communications Inc. and other assets. With
its licensed spectrum through its subsidiary, Look, UBS is a Canadian digital
television broadcaster and broadband wireless service provider. The Company's
website may be found at www.uniquebroadband.com.
About Look Communications Inc.
------------------------------
Look's mission is to be an M(3) - Mobile Multi Media - information, communications and entertainment service provider in Ontario and Québec. Look currently delivers a full range of communications services, including high-speed and dial-up Internet access, Web applications, digital television distribution and superior customer service to both the business and residential markets. Look's shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbols "LOK" for Multiple Voting Shares and "LOK.A" for Subordinate Voting Shares. Look's website may be found at www.look.ca.
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information
---------------------------------------------
The corporate information contained in this release includes forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance of the Company that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable by Look at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect. The actual results achieved may vary from the information provided herein and the variations may be material. Consequently, there is no representation by the Company that actual results achieved will be the same in whole or in part as those forecasts.
The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept
responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
For further information
Peter Block, Investor and media relations, E-mail: irinfo@uniquebroadband.com, (647) 259-3284
Source: Unique Broadband Systems, Inc.
I want it!
And with Motorola involved can Blackberry be far behind? What a powerhouse - MOT + RIMM + UBS!!!
Ubertino
17 years ago
Bell Canada was throttling P2P traffic
27 March 2008 14:06 by Andre "DVDBack23" Yoskowitz | 12 comments
Bell Canada was throttling P2P traffic After being accused of shaping and throttling P2P traffic, Bell Canada has admitted to doing so, claiming that it is within its rights to do so.
The company admitted that it implemented "load balancing to manage Bandwidth demand," and did so without telling customers or even the ISPs involved. The accusations thrown at Bell first occurred when Canadian ISP Teksavvy, an ISP popular among P2P users because traffic is guaranteed to not be throttled, noticed the "load balancing" and contacted Bell.
Last October Bell Canada's own ISP, Sympatico, admitted to throttling P2P traffic on BitTorrent, Gnutella, Limewire, Kazaa, eDonkey, eMule, and WinMX which they claimed "use a large portion of bandwidth during peak hours." The measures were supposedly only used during "peak hours" however.
What is more infuriating to customers is the fact that now traffic is affected for not only Sympatico users but customers of other ISPs that have connections through Bell. In response to what many customers have called "anti-competitive measures" being used by Bell a letter campaign is being formed with the Canadian Competition Bureau.
The group letter reads, "Bell Canada has overstepped its authority and are flexing their muscle (infrastructure control) to impose their will on independent competitors. I am a customer of an independent ISP who has purchased bandwidth and my provider is at the mercy of this underhanded tactic being employed by Bell Canada."
The company says it plans to have full bandwidth consumption control by April 7th.
http://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/13407.cfm
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Spectrum Management and Telecommunications
List of Applications Received
March 14, 2008
Auction for Spectrum Licences for Advanced Wireless Services and other Spectrum in the 2 GHz Range
Name of Applicant Eligibility
Points Requested Required Deposit
1380057 Alberta Ltd. 3076 $400,640,000
2096901 Ontario Inc. 8 $320,000
6934242 Canada Ltd. 2643 $340,020,000
6934579 Canada Inc. 1321 $154,940,000
768812 Ontario Inc. o/a Vianet 8 $320,000
9193-2962 Québec Inc. 2480 $317,200,000
Bell Mobility Inc. 1500 $180,000,000
Blue Canada Wireless Inc. 120 $4,800,000
Bragg Communications Inc. 356 $19,840,000
Canadian Tele Corporation 12 $480,000
Canquest Communication (Canada) Ltd. 2 $80,000
Celluworld Inc. 12 $480,000
Data & Audio-Visual Enterprises Wireless Inc. 972 $106,080,000
Globalive Wireless LP 1892 $235,000,000
Golden Spike Mobility 384 $23,760,000
Jaguar Wireless Holding Corp. 250 $10,000,000
Mipps Inc. 25 $1,000,000
Niagara Networks Inc. 6510 $881,400,000
Novus Wireless Inc. 340 $17,600,000
Rich Telecom Corp. 6 $240,000
Rogers Communications Inc. 4030 $534,200,000
Rural Com Corporation 2 $80,000
SaskTel 213 $8,520,000
SSI Micro Ltd. 2 $80,000
TBayTel 24 $960,000
Telehop Communications Inc. 20 $800,000
TELUS Communications Company 1860 $230,400,000
Triple Five Universal Enterprises Ltd. 1240 $143,600,000
YourLink Inc. 50 $2,000,000
Westman Media Cooperative Ltd. 24 $960,000
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Table of Key Dates Related to Licensing Framework for the Auction for Spectrum Licences for Advanced Wireless Services and other Spectrum in the 2 GHz Range
This table will be updated as required.
Event Event Time frames
Release of Policy Framework for the Auction for Spectrum Licences for Advanced Wireless Services and other Spectrum in the 2 GHz Range November 28, 2007
Publication of Canada Gazette notice DGTP-007-07 December 8, 2007
Publication of Canada Gazette notice DGRB-010-07 Consultation on Proposed Conditions of Licence to Mandate Roaming and Antenna Tower and Site Sharing and to Prohibit Exclusive Site Arrangements November 28, 2007
Publication of Canada Gazette notice DGRB-012-07 Update on Clarification Questions for AWS Policy Framework and Deadline Extension for the Consultation on Proposed Conditions of Licence (DGRB-010-07) December 13, 2007
Release of Licensing Framework for the Auction for Spectrum Licences for Advanced Wireless Services and other Spectrum in the 2 GHz Range December 21, 2007
Publication of Canada Gazette notice DGRB-011-07 December 22, 2007
Receipt deadline of clarification questions
Receipt deadline of comments on conditions of licence on roaming and towers
January 22, 2008
Receipt deadline of replies to comments received on conditions of licence on roaming and towers February 7, 2008
Posting of answers to clarification questions
Release of final conditions of licence on roaming and towers February 27, 2008
Feburary 29, 2008
Receipt deadline of applications to participate in the auction March 10, 2008
Publication of the list of applicants March 14, 2008
Publication of the list of qualified bidders March 31, 2008
Mock auction for qualified bidders May 21-23, 2008
Opening day of bidding May 27, 2008
Cessation of bidding Unknown
Submission of ownership and control documentation 10 business days after the cessation of bidding
Initial payment (20% of high bids / 100% of penalties) 10 business days after the cessation of bidding
Final payment (80% of high bids) 30 business days after the cessation of bidding
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Look obtains Court Order against Bell Canada
TORONTO, Mar 19, 2008 (Canada NewsWire via COMTEX News Network) --
Unique Broadband Systems, Inc. (the "Company") (TSX Venture: UBS) announced today that Look Communications Inc. ("Look") (TSX Venture: LOK and LOK.A), its 51 per cent controlled subsidiary, has been granted an Order from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice compelling Bell Canada to, amongst other things, deliver its Affidavit of Documents to Look by no later than October 1, 2008 (the "deadline"). Despite agreeing to a Court imposed timetable on August 13, 2007 to exchange an Affidavit of Documents with Look by November 16, 2007, Bell Canada has failed to adhere to its obligations before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice prompting the action initiated by Look.
As such, Look obtained an Order from the Honourable Justice Spence that granted the following:
<<
1. The Defendant, Bell Canada, deliver its sworn Affidavit of Documents
by no later than the deadline;
2. Bell Canada is to continue reporting to the Ontario Superior Court of
Justice on a monthly basis as to its progress in preparing its
Affidavit of Documents, and that Bell Canada will provide Look with a
written report in advance of this monthly attendance outlining:
a. The number of people who are reviewing the Bell Canada documents;
and
b. The number of documents reviewed during the month and the number
of documents remaining to review; and
3. In the event that Bell Canada fails to deliver its Affidavit of
Documents by the deadline, or if, in advance of the deadline, it is
shown that the efforts Bell Canada is making will not likely allow it
to meet the deadline, Look may seek an order to reduce the
$360,000 per month payment to Bell Canada, or seek an order for such
other relief as the Court may permit, after July 1, 2008 based on the
reports from Bell Canada to that date and any other relevant
material.
>>
The Company is very pleased with the decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice and is hopeful that this Order will allow Look to proceed with its Statement of Claim against Bell Canada on an expedited basis as originally agreed to in July 2007.
About Unique Broadband Systems, Inc.
------------------------------------
UBS is a publicly listed Canadian company that has a 51.7 per cent fully diluted economic interest in Look and other assets. With its licensed spectrum through its subsidiary, Look, UBS is a Canadian digital television broadcaster and broadband wireless service provider. The Company's website may be found at www.uniquebroadband.com.
About Look Communications Inc.
------------------------------
Look's mission is to be an M(3) - Mobile Multi Media - entertainment and information service provider in Ontario and Québec. Look currently delivers a full range of communications services, including high-speed and dial-up Internet access, Web applications, digital television distribution and superior customer service to both the business and residential markets. Look's shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbols "LOK" for Multiple Voting Shares and "LOK.A" for Subordinate Voting Shares. Look's website may be found at www.look.ca.
The corporate information contained in this release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance of the Company that involves risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable by the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect. The actual results achieved will vary from the information provided herein and the variations may be material. Consequently, there is no representation by UBS and Look that actual results achieved will be the same in whole or in part as those forecasts.
The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept
responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
%SEDAR: 00010550E
SOURCE: Unique Broadband Systems, Inc.
Peter Block, Investor and media relations, E-mail: irinfo@uniquebroadband.com, (403) 531-0331, (416) 586-0180
Copyright (C) 2008 CNW Group. All rights reserved.
Ubertino
17 years ago
Google Eyes Free Spectrum
The ongoing auction of choice, 700 megahertz radio spectrum by the Federal Communications Commission is a game for high rollers, including telco giants and Google. One company will likely pay more than $4.6 billion for the rights to that realm. Through that space, the auction winner--and competitor--could eventually beam all kinds of signals, including voice, digital video, data, to your toaster.
But there is a cheaper way to get data through the airwaves. Just ask Google (nasdaq: GOOG - news - people ).
Google intends to be a big player in the airwaves. At the recent World Economic Conference in Davos, Chief Executive Eric Schmidt said that mobile devices with location-based advertising could spark a "huge revolution," more interesting than the personal computer.
But along with taking part in the FCC's auction, Google has also been trying to get into the so-called "white space"--slivers of unlicensed, unused spectrum that lie between television channels. And that makes the telcos nervous.
The white space channels were originally designed to prevent radio waves on adjoining channels from bleeding into each other. They're considered too narrow to be auctioned off. Even so, they're in a choice portion of the spectrum where analog television currently lives, an area that could be used for data services, much like the 700 MHz spectrum. Use--if approved--would begin in February 2009.
The idea of utilizing white space spectrum has bounced around for years, stymied by concerns of TV signal interference and the objections of the powerful broadcast lobby. Then anticipation surrounding the 700 MHz auction renewed interest in all areas of spectrum, says Scott Ellison, IDC's vice president of mobile and wireless communications. "People were looking at other things in the broadcast space … tech companies probably thought, 'Can't we start using this spectrum in a more efficient way?' "
Exactly what Google would do in the white space is a subject of debate. Is Google's zeal for white space a hedge against losing the auction? That seems a bit of a stretch, particularly since there has been widespread speculation that Google isn't worried about winning the auction--just about ensuring that anyone can send data through the spectrum. Last summer, Google nudged the FCC to adopt a provision that gets triggered if the auction price exceeds $4.6 billion. That provision ensures that networks built in the newly sold spectrum would be open to all third-party devices. By actively bidding, Google can make sure that the final price is north of that magic reserve number--and so make the spectrum open.
Google's interest could simply be a land grab for any available slice of spectrum. "Anything that provides a way to push ads while not benefiting existing carriers is beneficial for Google," says Rory Altman, director of telecom consulting firm Altman Vilandrie & Co. Or it could create a low-cost experimental playing field that lets technology companies try out new services without the added cost of spectrum access. Companies "could experiment with new devices and services away from the incumbents, then use the experience to expand into other [spectrum] areas," notes Phil Asmundson, U.S. Technology, Media & Telecom Industry Leader at Deloitte & Touche.
The vacant channels have also attracted other technology bigwigs, including Microsoft (nasdaq: MSFT - news - people ), Intel (nasdaq: INTC - news - people ), Dell (nasdaq: DELL - news - people ) and Hewlett-Packard (nyse: HPQ - news - people ). In late 2006, those companies joined with several other firms and organizations--and Google--to form the White Spaces Coalition, which advocates using the unlicensed space. In 2007, coalition members gave the FCC two portable wireless devices designed to operate in the white spaces without interfering with adjourning television broadcast channels. The FCC reported in July 2007 that a gadget built by Philips Electronics didn't consistently detect broadcast signals and one built by Microsoft had flunked the tests.
But a failed first attempt has never stopped a technologist. The companies regrouped and by January had resubmitted four coalition-made devices to the FCC for fresh testing. The process is expected to take two to three months.
A successful trial could usher in a new set of competitors for telcos, which are already battling cable providers and satellite TV companies for customers for data services. That's a big growth sector for telcos, which have been struggling to offset declining voice revenues.
That's spurred No. 3 and No. 4 operators Sprint and T-Mobile to ask the FCC to regulate use of white spaces and earmark it for established carriers. Google responded by requesting the FCC ignore the carriers' request, describing their proposal as "not the most efficient, or even marginal, use of the white spaces."
AT&T (nyse: T - news - people ) and Verizon (nyse: VZ - news - people ) haven't publicly opposed the use of white spaces, presumably because their larger networks better shield them from such competition. "They are so advantaged in the amount of spectrum they own, these small slivers aren't all that threatening to them," says Asmundson.
They also know how complicated it is to build out a profitable service. Mobile data services generally require a good chunk of spectrum--say 20 MHz to 30 MHz--to support a business. "You could have some interesting applications in these little bands, but the technology is not at the point to do anything in a major way," says Ellison.
Still, the idea of Google wiggling into the white space as a cheap route to consumers has the carriers watching their back.
Adds Ellison, "Google has the heft, money and know-how to play all the fields and see what works."
http://www.forbes.com/home/technology/2008/01/30/spectrum-auction-google-tech-wire-cx_ew_0130auction.html
Ubertino
17 years ago
Is UBS going into mobile digital satellite TV distribution as Europe projects for 2009??
Europe Lays Framework for Mobile Satellite TV by 2009
By Scott M. Fulton, III, BetaNews
August 23, 2007, 12:08 PM
At the same time that the US makes its first transition to an all-digital terrestrial broadcasting system for television, member states of the European Union may all be rolling out mobile satellite services (MSS) for no less than satellite television. Imagine a Sirius/XM-style portable network, whose receivers will likely be integrated into cellular phones, on a continental scale as soon as 20 months from now.
It's an ambitious idea, and it's not nearly a done deal. But yesterday, a proposal was introduced before the European Parliament for a timetable by which the EU would select a few choice service providers, for the precious and narrow spectrum it will be making available for the entire continent. It will require the consent and cooperation of all 27 member states - something the EU rarely gets even with less ambitious proposals.
Here's what it means: Last February, the EU established two small chunks of radio spectrum - 1980-2010 MHz and 2170-2200 MHz - as reserve space for future MSS broadcasting. Under normal EU law, member states would each have the right to select their own service providers for satellite TV and radio service for their respective countries. In fact, if the EU were to change its mind now and do nothing, that's what EU states would do next.
But there's two big problems: First of all, no single EU country is very big, geographically speaking, compared to the whole of Europe. A satellite signal covers a very broad portion of the Earth, so any service provider licensed for, say, France could probably have its signal picked up in southern Finland. Simply put, the laws of physics dictate a wide coverage area that technology cannot circumvent...unless every mobile TV receiver in Europe were custom-built for each member country. (If you're thinking like a manufacturer of DVD consoles, you might not be too opposed to trying that.)
Even if France's signal and England's and Bulgaria's and all the others could be picked up everywhere else - which, if you think about it, will be the case anyway - Bulgaria's service provider wouldn't want its signal overlapping England's. And that leads us to the second big problem: There's not enough MSS spectrum available in the 2 GHz band to go around.
So the European Union is stepping in, or at least attempting to. But in order for member states to allow it to do so, it has to formally present its case to those states for why it has the authority to do so. Imagine if, under a different style of US constitution, in order for the federal government to make its case for regulating the public airwaves, it had to get all 50 states' consent to giving up their own rights to do so individually.
Thus a large part of the EU proposal yesterday explains - as it must do under European law - why it's claiming the authority to propose a national selection process for MSS providers.
For its claim to qualify as valid, it has to meet two tests under the EU constitution. First, the claim must meet the Subsidiarity Principle: essentially, that the nature of the job at hand means it can be performed better by the EU than by all the 27 states acting independently. In other words, the EU has to prove it can do the job not because it's better at these sorts of things, but because the problem at hand makes a single body better suited to the task.
Here is where the EU has physics on its side: Satellite signals cover broad territory, and states' boundaries do not. "Selection and issuance of rights over the same spectrum to different satellite operators in different Member States would prevent satellites from covering their natural footprint," the EU proposal reads, "which by nature covers a large number of countries; it would risk fragmenting the satellite communications market and eliminate the natural advantage of satellites compared to other modes of communication. The mobile character of the services involved also means that citizens travelling in the EU should benefit from the availability of such services throughout the EU."
Second, the EU's case must meet the Proportionality Principle. This means it can't claim more authority than it needs to do the job...and once the job is done, it steps out of the way. In other words, it can't appoint a permanent commission like the FCC.
In making that part of the case, the EU goes on, "The proposal will create a mechanism for coordinating the selection and definition of certain conditions to be attached to rights of use of spectrum. It will not touch upon the right of Member States to grant the authorizations to use the spectrum or to attach specific conditions applying to the provision of services in areas which are not harmonized. Member States will be closely involved in elaborating the details of the selection procedure."
Here is where critics say the EU's case may fall apart. In order to win the authority to drive the MSS adoption process, the EU is limiting itself to driving the selection process for prospective service providers. Once that job is done, it's leaving it up to member states to apportion per-country licenses to those companies, for channels which the EU would already have selected as well.
On the one hand, it doesn't make sense. In order to sell its plan, the EU is leaving open the option for member states to deny licenses. But assuming a state does so, how could it block the reception of a signal from a service provider whose license was denied? That might take a technological solution...which brings up the whole "per-country" manufacturing option for MSS receivers again.
On the other hand, only such a hare-brained scheme might just work, because member states don't want to be perceived by their citizens as ceding any part of their authority to a federal institution. Giving them the right to say "no" could be a kind of ceremonial concession, not unlike the establishment of a constitutional monarchy where the monarch is essentially a face on a coin - which is a state of affairs not unfamiliar to member states.
"Since industry so far could not agree on a single standard for mobile TV, commercial launches of mobile TV are delayed," reads a statement from the EU's central authority in Brussels last month. "Europe's competitors, most notably from Asia, have made significant progress - partly due to state intervention - and Europe risks losing its competitive edge unless sufficient momentum is achieved. This is why there is a need to develop a 'blueprint' for mobile TV in Europe."
http://www.betanews.com/article/Europe_Lays_Framework_for_Mobile_Satellite_TV_by_2009/1187885308
Ubertino
17 years ago
Good or bad news: Google confirms 700MHz entry
Posted : 04 Dec 2007
Cementing its wireless-spectrum plans, Google announced Nov. 30 that it will bid in the upcoming U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) auction of the 700MHz frequencies. The decision creates a win-lose scenario for both Google's partners and its competition.
"No matter which bidder ultimately prevails, the real winners of this auction are American consumers, who likely will see more choices than ever before in how they access the Internet," said Google Chair and CEO Eric Schmidt.
Parsers of Schmidt's pronouncement were quick to note that "bidding on spectrum" does not necessarily equate to "building and operating a network." Google said it will not bid in partnership with other companies in the auction, which is expected to bring some $15 billion into the U.S. Treasury. What happens after the auction is another matter—Schmidt and his team are unlikely to wish to move into the capital-intensive, low-value-added business of supplying broadband pipes.
That means that one of the winners in the Google move could be Frontline Wireless LLC, a startup formed to bid in the auction and to build out a hybrid private/public network. Frontline is headed by a trio of veteran telecom executives including former FCC chairman Reed Hundt. Backed by prominent Silicon Valley investors including Netscape founder Jim Barksdale and John Doerr of venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers, Frontline has proposed the building of a nationwide broadband network that would be available for public-safety use during emergencies and leased to commercial carriers at other times.
While Frontline likely has deep pockets, it cannot match the cash available to either Google or Verizon Wireless in an auction the magnitude of the 700MHz sell-off. If Google snaps up prime broadband spectrum in the so-called "C-block" (the most highly valued slice of the 700MHz frequencies, and the one that falls under the open-access requirements issued by the FCC), it would make perfect sense to partner with an independent company like Frontline, with the expertise and the willingness to build and operate the network.
"[Our] contacts feel Google will not build and operate the network," wrote Global Equities Research analyst Trip Chowdhry in a research note today.
As always, Google's primary mission is to ensure that its search pages, its Web-based applications, and is advertising, appear on as many screens on PCs and mobile devices as possible. Having Frontline build a network based on Google-owned spectrum would be a logical route to that goal.
Verizon's dismay
Verizon Wireless, on the other hand, may be the one on the losing end with Google's announcement. The wireless carries at one point hoped to have the field more or less to itself in the auction. Verizon said it will open its existing cellular network to devices and applications from outside providers. Many observers, including Frontline's Hundt, saw that move as a ploy to discourage rival bidders for the C-block. If so, it didn't work, and Verizon now faces a rival bidder with lots of resources (while Google's cash on hand stands at just over $13 billion, its $217.8 billion market cap gives it plenty of leverage to access more cash if needed for the auction) and equal determination.
AT&T paid $2.5 billion last month for 700MHz spectrum held by Aloha Partners. Most analysts now expect that, while the company may still bid in the auction, it's unlikely to contest the C block. Verizon has seen other big telecoms nearly destroyed by ruinously high bidding for government-held spectrum; it will almost certainly seek to avoid a naked bidding war with Google.
As for U.S. consumers, they are likely winners. At the very least, Google's participation means that the reserve price, or minimum winning bid, of $4.6 billion for the spectrum will be met. The higher the price paid, the more powerful the incentives for the winner to build and roll out (or partner with another company to build) a network that is truly open to innovative new applications and services. In this case, at least, what's good for Google is good for end-users, as well.
- Richard Martin
InformationWeek
http://www.eetasia.com/ART_8800492064_499488_NT_7c6ef762.HTM?1000014054&8800492064&click_from=1000014054,8641896707,2007-12-04,EEOL,EENEWS
Ubertino
17 years ago
All set for shift to mobile broadband
Posted : 03 Dec 2007
Half of all the HSDPA devices that have been introduced in the market are consumer devices or phones.
[What does HSDPA stand for?
HSDPA or High Speed Download Packet Access is a 3G high-speed digital data service. HSDPA networks typically support download speeds of 1.8Mbps with a number handling 3.6Mbps and some testing 14.4Mbps.]
The Internet has transformed how people communicate, access and share news and information. Online entertainment and other services have grown. Broadband connections serve more businesses and homes, providing a richer experience and stimulus for innovation and growth. The business of mobile network operators is undergoing rapid change as the Internet goes mobile, alongside continuing developments in voice services.
Wireless plays a key role in delivering broadband experience. W-CDMA provides the path to mobile broadband and is the natural next step in the evolution of GSM operators. It is the leading 3G mobile communications system with 182 commercial networks in 81 countries, and 70 percent market share of all commercial 3G networks. The Asia-Pacific, with over 1 billion GSM and W-CDMA subscribers, has a pivotal role in W-CDMA development.
It is clear that 3G/W-CDMA subscriptions are rising—with over 160 million current subscribers and monthly growth exceeding 6 million. Almost half of all W-CDMA subscriptions are in Asia-Pacific, and in Western Europe the majority of mobile subscription growth is for W-CDMA.
Most W-CDMA operators implement High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA), the first evolution of W-CDMA, to increase data speeds for users (typically 1-3Mbps), reduce latency and significantly improve the user experience. The focus is on increasing data revenues, which is the key growth area for mobile operators in developed markets. In developing markets, 3G/HSPA provides a key opportunity for delivering broadband Internet access in rural and urban areas.
HSPA is the new baseline for mobile broadband.—Over 80 percent of commercial W-CDMA networks have launched HSDPA with 147 commercial HSDPA networks in 69 countries as of October, and 44 more HSDPA networks in deployment. The introduction of flat rate data pricing in many markets is a key inflection point.
HSDPA devices address all segments, enabling operators also to compete in new markets. (Click to view full image)
HSDPA is launched throughout Asia-Pacific including Australia, Cambodia, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Japan, Macau SAR, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka and Taiwan. The Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA) estimates that there are over 235 million GSM, GPRS/Edge, W-CDMA and HSPA subscribers in commercial HSPA-enabled networks in the region, and worldwide the figure is over 900 million. HSDPA is launched in 26 of the 27 countries of the European Union, and networks are launched throughout Africa, the Middle East and the Americas.
Downlink speeds are increasing: 81 commercial HSDPA networks, or 55 percent, deliver 3.6Mbps (peak) in 44 countries; and 25 networks have launched 7.2Mbps (peak) or more.
HSDPA devices are mainstream.—A recent GSA survey confirmed that 403 HSDPA devices have been launched in the market by 80 suppliers, with 275 products introduced so far this year. Compared to 84 products as of September 2006, this signals huge growth and industry commitment. HSDPA devices address all segments, enabling operators to also compete in new markets e.g. as an alternative to DSL, with the added benefits of mobility. There is a trend toward multiband W-CMDA-HSDPA with 75 devices operating in 850/1900/2100, enabling global roaming.
The global growth of commercial networks reflects the increase in speed. (Click to view full image)
There are already 42 networks that have committed to High-Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA) and 19 HSUPA networks have launched in 16 countries, increasing uplink speed to 2Mbps (peak). There are 33 devices that support or can be upgraded for these networks. Future evolutions plan uplink speed up to 5.8Mbps (peak).
Most W-CDMA-HSPA networks are complemented by GSM/Edge for service continuity and the best user experience. Edge delivers typical user data speeds of up to 200Kbps. At least 70 percent of HSDPA devices support GSM/Edge. Edge is undergoing evolution for higher speeds, lower latency, and increased spectral efficiency (GERAN Evolution) with HSPA the main driver, to reduce the performance gap. In markets anticipating 3G license awards, Edge has assisted operators to prepare the market for mobile broadband.
HSPA operators worldwide are reporting many success stories of subscription growth, increased traffic, average revenue per unit, revenues and profitability. Looking ahead, the challenge is to ensure lowest service delivery cost, which HSPA and future evolutions (HSPA+) enable.
- Alan Hadden
President, Global mobile Suppliers Association
http://tinyurl.com/2emqz3
Ubertino
17 years ago
DBRS says wireless giants' credit shouldn't be hurt by new entrants/UBS to enter cellphone market?
1 day ago
TORONTO - Debt-rating agency DBRS doesn't expect Canada's three wireless giants to suffer near-or medium-term credit woes if smaller regional players enter the cellphone market.
But the Toronto-based agency said Friday that new entrants into the wireless market - such as Quebecor Inc. (TSX:QBR.B) and Manitoba Telecom Services Inc. (TSX:MBT) - could slow the growth rate of Rogers Communications (TSX:RCI.B), Telus Corp. (TSX:T) and BCE Inc. (TSX:BCE).
Earlier this week, the federal government decided to open the possibility of greater competition from smaller regional players. The move is expected to help increase wireless competition, which could bring cellphone users more choice and more competitive pricing.
Several other carriers besides Quebecor and MTS are expected to officially announce plans to join in the May auction, including Unique Broadband Systems, Inc. (TSXV:UBS) and its subsidiary Look Communications Inc. (TSXV:LOK), which speculated Friday about entering the cellphone market.
Look currently has the right to use about 90 megahertz of MDS spectrum in the 2.6-to-2.7-gigahertz mobile spectrum band. The company said its share of the spectrum, coupled with its mobile broadcast licence, positions it well in the wireless market.
Toronto-based Yak Communications (Canada) Corp., which began by selling long-distance phone services and more recently started an Internet home phone service, may also join in the auction.
Quebecor CEO Pierre Karl Peladeau, who has been pushing for Ottawa to set aside some wireless spectrum for companies that don't have a wireless network, will invest $500 million to build a broadband wireless network in Quebec.
http://canadianpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5hivkIDRxPfwLwbCi3MR6DRH0bnrg
Ubertino
17 years ago
UBS welcomes government decision on spectrum rules; Look is reviewing options for maximizing shareholder value
Friday November 30, 1:01 pm ET
TORONTO, Nov. 30 /CNW/ - Unique Broadband Systems, Inc. (the "Company") (TSX Venture: UBS - News) today welcomed the Government of Canada's new policy decisions regarding the May 2008 Advanced Wireless Services ("AWS") spectrum auction of 105 MHz, announced on November 28, 2007.
Amongst other things, the Minister of Industry, Jim Prentice, announced
the following significant policy decisions:
1. Mandatory roaming provisions;
2. Mandatory antenna tower and site sharing;
3. Binding arbitration for commercial negotiations;
4. A set aside of 40 MHz of spectrum for new entrants; and
5. Minimum opening bids of over $500 million for all geographic areas.
The Company believes the new policy decisions will foster better and more diverse services for consumers. In particular, the spectrum set aside, mandated roaming and antenna tower and site sharing, coupled with binding arbitration to conclude commercial agreements, are likely to encourage increased competition and lower prices in Canada's wireless industry.
Look Communications Inc. ("Look"), the Company's 51 per cent controlled subsidiary, currently has the right to use approximately 90 MHz of MDS spectrum in the 2.6 to 2.7 GHz mobile spectrum band, which together with its mobile broadcast license, position the Look well for this growing wireless market. The Company is pleased with the introduction of the new policy decisions announced by Industry Canada with respect to mandatory roaming and antenna tower and site sharing in trading areas across all of Canada.
In light of these significant changes being introduced into the Canadian wireless market, Look's Board of Directors, in conjunction with its financial advisor Greenhill & Co., Canada Ltd., is currently reviewing all options in order to maximize shareholder value.
About Unique Broadband Systems, Inc.
------------------------------------
UBS is a publicly listed Canadian company that has a 51.6% fully diluted economic interest in Look Communications Inc. and other assets. With its licensed spectrum through its subsidiary, Look, UBS is a Canadian digital television broadcaster and broadband wireless service provider. The Company's website may be found at www.uniquebroadband.com.
About Look Communications Inc.
------------------------------
Look's mission is to be an M(3) - Mobile Multi Media - entertainment and information service provider in Ontario and Québec. The Corporation currently delivers a full range of communications services, including high-speed and dial-up Internet access, Web applications, digital television distribution and superior customer service to both the business and residential markets. Look's shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbols "LOK" for Multiple Voting Shares and "LOK.A" for Subordinate Voting Shares. Look's website may be found at www.look.ca.
The corporate information contained in this release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance of the Company that involves risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable by the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect. The actual results achieved will vary from the information provided herein and the variations may be material. Consequently, there is no representation by UBS and Look that actual results achieved will be the same in whole or in part as those forecasts.
The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept
responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
For further information
Peter Block, Investor and media relations, E-mail: irinfo@uniquebroadband.com, (403) 531-0331, (416) 586-0180
Source: Unique Broadband Systems, Inc.
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Interesting speculations by Peter Nowak in his blog.
The FCC leaves Canada in the dust again
Lost amid all the telco earnings last week was some monumental news from down south. On Tuesday, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission unveiled the rules for next year's wireless spectrum auction. The news was monumental because the rules go a long way toward busting up the oligopoly of U.S. carriers. In a nutshell, carriers will no longer be able to lock mobile phones onto their own networks. In other words, if a consumer buys a mobile phone, it will work on AT&T's network, on Verizon's network, T-Mobile's network, etc. Also, carriers will no longer be able to dictate what sort of software can be put on the phones. So if a consumer wants to put Skype on their phone and make free calls through wi-fi hotspots, thus depriving the carrier of some revenue, it's their right to do so. This move will also massively spur development of new software applications for mobile phones.
The FCC, however, stopped short of granting one further request made by Google Inc. and various consumer groups. Google and company had been asking that the winners of the auction be forced to rent their spectrum to third parties, thus making it possible for smaller players who can't afford the billions it takes to get airwaves to enter the business. The FCC turned down this request, a point lamented in an editorial by the New York Times. (The NYT link may not work too much longer, as the editorial will probably go up behind a pay wall sooner or later. The gist of the lament is that by forcing carriers to rent spectrum, the FCC would have created a third, wireless broadband pipe into the home to compete with DSL and cable. Not doing so is a missed opportunity.) With that said, there is nothing to prevent a deep-pocketed company from buying spectrum in the auction and following through with a rental scheme anyway - I'm betting that's exactly what Google does, just to stick it to the wireless carriers.
Are there Canadian ramifications for the FCC's bold moves? Sort of. While it's true that we have a similar spectrum auction happening early in 2008, there will be no similar rules set. An Ottawa source tells me that Minister of Industry Maxime Bernier could not add similar rules to the auction without first asking for public consultation on them. And the only possible time to add such rules is during an auction for new spectrum - any attempt by Ottawa to slap new requirements on the existing spectrum owned by Bell, Rogers and Telus would surely be legally challenged, and probably defeated. The new rules could be applied in the next spectrum auction, in 2011, when the airwaves currently used to deliver over-the-air analog television signals are repurposed. In the meantime, however, Canada will drop even further behind the rest of the world in wireless. We'll be the only ones continuing to use locked and blocked cellphones. The U.S., because of the FCC's new rules, is going to bound ahead.
There is one other alternative. Minister Bernier could delay the current auction by a few months and seek a new round of consultations on rules similar to those implemented by the FCC. Pushing the auction back could also have the added benefit of letting foreign players in - everyone expects the Conservatives to scrap foreign ownership restrictions if they get a majority government, which could happen in a fall election. The bottom line is, the reasons to delay an auction are mounting and going ahead with [it] is increasingly looking like a bad idea.
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Hitachi Communication Technologies and Alvarion to Cooperate in Developing Mobile WiMAX System
Tuesday August 7, 1:00 am ET
Establishment of Strategic Partnership in Broadband Mobile Wireless Access System
TEL AVIV, Israel & TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hitachi Communication Technologies Ltd. with its headquarters in Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan, President & CEO Eiji Aoki ("Hitachi Com") and Alvarion Ltd. (NASDAQ: ALVR - News) with its headquarters in Tel Aviv, Israel, President & CEO Tzvika Friedman ("Alvarion") have agreed to develop Broadband Mobile Wireless Access System using Mobile WiMAX technology jointly in Japan and overseas market.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has developed the license policy of 2.5 GHz band. WiMAX is considered as the most likely candidate for Broadband Mobile Wireless Access Systems. To establish WiMAX technology, the base station, which can transmit broadband data stably, and the mobile management technology, which can realize seamless handover between base stations, are needed.
The main goal of this agreement is that Hitachi Com and Alvarion will develop total system solutions, combined with the base station technology of Alvarion, which is globally a leading company in WiMAX and broadband wireless systems, with the mobile gateway technology, construction and maintenance technology of Hitachi Com, which has the rich experience of 3G Mobile Radio Network System.
Hitachi Com is in charge of developing ASN-GW, which has the following features:
(1) The common platform architecture is applied from a small system to very large systems so that it can flexibly be expanded along by the future traffic increase through separating protocol processor from traffic processor.
(2) It has a non-stop configuration to realize the quality of carrier grade so that it can switch to the redundant system without giving any impact to other equipment such as base stations and mobile stations through mirroring of operation information and instantaneous transfer of IP addresses.
(3) It has extremely high-speed packet processing performance through the use of high performance ASN-GW engine of which capability is expected to be 10 (ten) times or more when compared with Hitachi Com's current products.
Alvarion is in charge of developing high performance macro/micro base stations, which have the following features.
(1) The realization of the reduction in size and weight by function aggregation. (unified RF parts and digital processing parts, 30% less power consumption and 50% less mass), Reduction of installation work cost.
(2) It is compatible with AAS and MIMO which are key features in the WiMAX Forum(TM) Wave 2 specifications. As a result of combining MIMO and AAS together, effective cell design can be accomplished easier and both area coverage and system capacity increase.
(3) The realization of low power consumption in the RF portion with the advanced technologies such as DPD and CFR.
Through the experiences of Hitachi Com, which has the fast hand over and mobile management technologies proven in the 3G mobile communication market, and Alvarion, which has the wireless broadband technology from OFDMA down acquired in the fixed WiMAX with high market shares in the world, they can realized new WiMAX system which has the quality of career grade still maintaining WiFi-like easy deployment capability.
WiMAX is a broadband wireless standard which is based on the specifications 802.16 working group in IEEE formulates. Its strong points are faster speed service at a lower price when compared with 3rd generation. WiMAX Forum, an industry group, formulates the specifications of the higher layer and authenticates equipment. Also, Alvarion is playing a leading role from the early stage in WiMAX Forum and contributes substantially by volunteering to be a chairman today in the most important Working Group.
Hitachi Com will aim for further global expansion in the next generation broadband wireless business through this scheme.
About Hitachi Communication Technologies, Ltd.
Hitachi Communication Technologies, Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (NYSE: HIT / TSE: 6501) Fiscal 2006 (ended March 31, 2007) sales totaled 103.6 billion yen ($878 million). The company develops, designs and manufactures a wide range of information and communication systems-related products. For more information, please visit the company's website at http://www.hitachi-com.com/.
About Alvarion
With more than 3 million units deployed in more than 150 countries, Alvarion (www.alvarion.com) is the world's leading provider of innovative wireless broadband network solutions enabling Personal Broadband to improve lifestyles and productivity with portable and mobile data, VoIP, video and other services.
Alvarion is leading the market to Open WiMAX solutions with the most extensive deployments and proven product portfolio in the industry covering the full range of frequency bands with both fixed and mobile solutions. Alvarion's products enable the delivery of personal mobile broadband, business and residential broadband access, corporate VPNs, toll quality telephony, mobile base station feeding, hotspot coverage extension, community interconnection, public safety communications, and mobile voice and data.
As a wireless broadband pioneer, Alvarion has been driving and delivering innovations for over 10 years from core technology developments to creating and promoting industry standards. Leveraging its key roles in the IEEE and HiperMAN standards committees and experience in deploying OFDM-based systems, the Company's prominent work in the WiMAX Forum is focused on increasing the widespread adoption of standards-based products in the wireless broadband market and leading the entire industry to Open WiMAX solutions.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on the current expectations or beliefs of Alvarion's management and are subject to a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements: the failure of the market for WIMAX products to develop as anticipated; Alvarion's inability to capture market share in the expected growth of the WIMAX market as anticipated, due to, among other things, competitive reasons or failure to execute in our sales, marketing or manufacturing objectives; inability to further identify, develop and achieve success for new products, services and technologies; increased competition and its effect on pricing, spending, third-party relationships and revenues; as well as the inability to establish and maintain relationships with commerce, advertising, marketing, and technology providers and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's 20-F Annual Report Risk Factors section as well as in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Information set forth in this press release pertaining to third parties has not been independently verified by Alvarion and is based solely on publicly available information or on information provided to Alvarion by such third parties for inclusion in this press release. The web sites appearing in this press release are not and will not be included or incorporated by reference in any filing made by Alvarion with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which this press release will be a part of.
You may request Alvarion's future press releases or a complete Investor Kit by contacting Kika Stayerman, kika.stayerman@alvarion.com or +972.3.767.4159.
Contact:
Alvarion
Investors:
Efrat Makov, CFO
+972-3-645-6252
+1-650-314-2652
efrat.makov@alvarion.com
or
Claudia Gatlin
+1-212-830-9080
claudia.gatlin@alvarion.com
or
Press:
In the U.S.:
Christine Buzzetta, +1-972-341-2530
cbuzzetta@golinharris.com
or
In the U.K.:
Bridget Fishleigh, 44-1273-305-936
bridget@nomadcomms.com
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Google sidesteps mobile reports
Google wants a bigger slice of the mobile advertising market
Google has refused to deny mounting speculation that it is working to produce its own brand mobile phone.
Reports suggest that the web giant is developing a series of"GPhones", centred on its mobile services, such as search, e-mail and maps.
In a statement, Google said it was working with carriers, phone makers and content providers to "bring its services to users everywhere".
The firm would not say if its efforts included plans for a handset.
The Google statement said: "What our users and partners are telling us is that they want Google search and Google applications on mobile, and we are working hard every day to deliver that."
Reports circulate
Google has recently partnered with Apple to produce services, such as e-mail and maps, for its iPhone handset.
Eric Schmidt, Google's chief executive, said recently that more Google services for the iPhone would be rolled out.
Reports have circulated since last year that Google was working with mobile phone manufacturers to produce a handset.
The Wall Street Journal on Thursday said Google had invested "hundreds of millions of dollars" in the project and was involved in discussions with T-Mobile USA and Verizon Wireless.
The newspaper said the company was seeking to grab a bigger slice of the increasingly important mobile phone advertising market.
Market research firm eMarketer told the paper that the mobile ad industry would be worth $14bn (£7bn) by 2011.
Last month, Google said it was interested in bidding for wireless spectrum licences in the US, which could be the first step towards running its own mobile network.
Google said its interest was in ensuring that customers would be able to buy any mobile device to connect to the full capability of the internet.
At present, wireless carriers routinely try to restrict which models of cell phones that can be used on their networks.
They also often limit the software that can be downloaded onto them, such as ringtones, music or web browser software.
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Crown Castle Announces Long-Term Modeo Spectrum Lease
Monday July 23, 4:01 pm ET
HOUSTON, July 23, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI - News) today announced that a Crown Castle subsidiary has entered into a lease of its U.S. nationwide 1670 - 1675 MHz spectrum (``Spectrum''). The Spectrum will be leased to a venture formed by Telcom Ventures, LLC and Columbia Capital, LLC (``Lessee'') for a $13 million annual lease fee beginning July 23, 2007 until October 1, 2013. Upon the expiration of the initial term of the lease, the Lessee will have the right to acquire the Spectrum for $130 million, escalated at CPI from July 2007, or to renew the lease for a period of up to ten years on the same terms, subject to the annual lease fee increasing to $14.3 million. As part of such transaction, Crown Castle has transferred to Lessee the subsidiary holding the assets related to its trial network in New York City and will be the preferred provider of tower infrastructure for future tower sites as the Spectrum is deployed by Lessee.
ADVERTISEMENT
click here
As previously disclosed, Crown Castle expected to incur approximately $10 million of operating and general administrative costs in 2007 related to the Spectrum and its Modeo operations. As a result of the transactions described above, substantially all of the operating and general and administrative expenses in Modeo are expected to be eliminated. Crown Castle expects to adjust its full year 2007 outlook in conjunction with the release of its second quarter 2007 earnings on July 31, 2007. Further, Crown Castle expects to write-off all or substantially all of its Modeo assets, other than its Spectrum, in the third quarter 2007.
Crown Castle's second quarter 2007 earnings call is scheduled for August 1, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. EDT. The conference call may be accessed by dialing 303-262-2190 and asking for the Crown Castle call at least 10 minutes prior to the start time or live over the Internet by logging on to the web at http://www.crowncastle.com.
Crown Castle International Corp. engineers, deploys, owns and operates technologically advanced shared wireless infrastructure, including extensive networks of towers. Crown Castle offers significant wireless communications coverage to 91 of the top 100 U.S. markets and to substantially all of the Australian population. Crown Castle owns, operates and manages over 22,000 and over 1,400 wireless communication sites in the U.S. and Australia, respectively. For more information on Crown Castle, please visit http://www.crowncastle.com.
The Crown Castle International Corp. logo is available at http://www.primenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=3063
Cautionary Language Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that are based on Crown Castle management's current expectations. Such statements include, but are not limited to, plans, projections and estimates regarding (i) the Spectrum lease, (ii) the operating and general and administrative expenses of Modeo, (iii) the adjustment of Crown Castle's 2007 Outlook and (iv) the write-off of Modeo assets. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including (i) that the Spectrum lease may not be renewed or continued, (ii) that the option to purchase the Spectrum may not be exercised, (iii) that the Spectrum may not be deployed and (iv) other factors. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expected. More information about potential risk factors that could affect Crown Castle and its results is included in Crown Castle's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contact:
Crown Castle International Corp.
Ben Moreland, CFO
Jay Brown, Treasurer
713-570-3000
Source: Crown Castle International Corp.
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Google's $4.6 billion plan for an open wireless Internet
Would that all kings were so benevolent. Google announced today it would set aside at least $4.6 billion to purchase a slice of the public airwaves in an upcoming government auction of radio spectrum. The company is imposing one condition on its money: It will only participate, it says, if the Federal Communications Commission requires that all bidders for the radio waves be forced to adhere to principles of Internet "openness."
This is huge news, though to understand its implications you've got to know what's been going on in the regulatory debate over the next wireless Internet. More than a decade ago, the government mandated that all TV broadcasters transmit their signals digitally, freeing up a huge slice of public airwaves for other uses. In January, the FCC will hold a public auction of the vacated radio spectrum -- it's known at the 700 MHz frequency -- and traditional communications companies such as AT&T and Verizon are salivating at the chance to grab up the space.
The 700 MHz airwaves will be used for data; wireless companies talk of a fast, robust, nationwide wireless Internet -- but that's exactly what's so worrying about the prospect of the spectrum going to the telecom firms, which have not generally favored openness on their networks. On today's cellphone networks, wireless companies won't let people run the applications or devices they choose -- all major carriers, for instance, prohibit their customers from adding Skype to their cellphones, and they frown upon letting you use phones that also do Wi-Fi (because if you're using Wi-Fi, you're not ringing up minutes on the cell data plan).
Over the last several months, Google, eBay (which owns Skype), and other Internet firms -- along with many consumer advocacy groups -- have lobbied the FCC to mandate that telecom firms clean up their act on the 700 MHz spectrum. You can think of it as the network neutrality debate for wireless.
As it has outlined in a letter to the FCC (PDF) and numerous times on its company blogs, Google wants the agency to require that any firm that bids for rights to the 700 MHz spectrum promise to: 1) let customers download and use any software on the network; 2) let customers use any device on the network; 3) sell wireless space to any third-party wireless provider at commercial rates; 4) allow the wireless network to interconnect with other Internet service providers.
A couple of weeks ago, Kevin Martin, the chairman of the FCC, released a draft version of rules for the auction that were widely interpreted as siding with Google. In fact, Martin's draft only went partway toward full openness -- it allowed for points 1 and 2 from above, but not points 3 and 4. And that's where the $4.6 billion comes in: Google is using its considerable wealth as bait to bring Martin all the way to full openness.
Telecom firms loathe these openness principles, and they've been lobbying Martin to reject Google's plan by arguing that any rules would make the spectrum less attractive to bidders -- and, therefore, will result in lower revenues for the government in an auction. Google's money eviscerates that argument: Google will put its billions in only if the FCC adopts all four principles of openness, CEO Eric Schmidt told Martin in a letter (PDF). And the government stands to make a lot more money at auction if Google participates than if it does not.
It's a brilliant strategy, one that puts wireless companies in a tough spot. We've long known that Google hired the smartest engineers in the world. Now we're seeing their public policy gurus aren't too shabby either.
$treet Trader
17 years ago
Bell Blinked
Look and Bell reach temporary postponement of Bell's Notice of Intent to Disconnect
TORONTO and MONTREAL, May 9 /CNW/ - Look Communications Inc. ("Look") and
Bell Canada ("Bell") have agreed to extend the May 10, 2007 deadline relating
to the Notice of Intent to Disconnect that Bell issued to Look on April 10,
2007. Under the terms of the Agreement, both parties have mutually agreed to
the following:
<<
1. Bell will not disconnect services provided to Look pending the
decision of the CRTC;
2. Once the decision of the CRTC is issued, Bell will not suspend
services to Look for five business days from the date of the CRTC
decision;
3. Look will provide Bell with its notice of motion for an injunction
and supporting affidavit by May 10, 2007; and
4. The agreement is without prejudice to Bell's ability to make any
argument in the injunction motion, action or other forum.
>>
Look remains committed to ensuring the continuation of services to its
60,000 subscribers and fully intends to pursue all Regulatory and Legal
remedies available. Look's Part VII Application to the CRTC (the
"Application") and Bell's response to the Application can be accessed at
http://www.crtc.gc.ca/PartVII/eng/2007/8622/l22_200706624.htm.. The Company
expects that Look's reply to Bell's response will be posted shortly.
Look believes it is prudent to continue to notify all stakeholders,
including Look's 60,000 subscribers, as well as the appropriate Regulatory and
Legal Authorities, of the continuing behaviour and actions of Bell with
respect to these events.
Look remains committed to the maximization of its assets consisting of
among other things, approximately 100MHz of licensed contiguous spectrum, its
technology and vision for M3 - Mobile Multi Media -, its subscribers and
cumulative tax losses. This unique collection of assets is both highly
valuable and coveted by "Interested Parties".
About Look Communications Inc.
------------------------------
Look Communications' mission is to be an M(3) - Mobile Multi Media -
entertainment and information service provider in Ontario and Québec. The
Company is developing an M(3) network and currently delivers a full range of
communications services, including high-speed and dial-up Internet access, Web
applications, digital television distribution, and superior customer service
to both the business and residential markets. Look's shares are listed on the
TSX Venture Exchange under the symbols "LOK" for multiple voting shares and
"LOK.A" for subordinate voting shares.
The corporate information contained in this release contains
forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance
of Look that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results
to differ materially. Assumptions used in the preparation of such information,
although considered reasonable by Look at the time of preparation, may prove
to be incorrect. The actual results achieved may vary from the information
provided herein and the variations may be material. Consequently, there is no
representation by Look that actual results achieved will be the same in whole
or in part as those forecast.
The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept
responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
%SEDAR: 00013414E
For further information: Peter Block, Investor and Media Relations,
investorinfo@look.ca, (403) 531-0331, (416) 586-0180
$treet Trader
17 years ago
UBS adds Bell Canada and Rogers to the Inukshuk lawsuit
18:07 EDT Wednesday, April 25, 2007
TORONTO, April 25 /CNW/ - UBS Wireless Services Inc., ("UBS Wireless") a wholly owned subsidiary of Unique Broadband Systems, Inc. (TSX Venture: UBS), filed a statement of claim onApril 21, 2004 against Allstream Corp., Microcell Telecommunications Inc., Microcell Solutions Inc. and Inukshuk Internet Inc., for, amongst other things, specific performance, breach of contract, breach of confidence and breach of fiduciary duty in respect of a Right of Use and Right to Match Agreement between UBS Wireless and Inukshuk Internet Inc. ("Inukshuk") for spectrum licenced to Inukshuk.
UBS Wireless has instructed its counsel to bring a motion to add the Inukshuk Wireless Partnership, owned directly or indirectly 50% byBell Canada and 50% by Rogers Communications Inc. ("Rogers"), as a defendant to the original lawsuit.
The proposed addition of Inukshuk Wireless Partnership to the claim is a result of the action dated March 30, 2006, whereby Bell Canada and Rogers caused the Multipoint Communications Systems (MCS) licences that were held by Fido Solutions Inc. (formerly Microcell Telecommunications Inc.) to be transferred to the Inukshuk Wireless Partnership, even though the asset itself was the subject of litigation for specific performance.
The assets and rights that need to be protected are significant to UBS shareholders and as such the Company intends to vigorously pursue these rights.
UBS has retained McMillan Binch Mendelsohn LLP to litigate this claim as Lenczner Slaght Royce Smith Griffin LLP, UBS' previous counsel, removed themselves as counsel since that firm was conflicted because of its relationship withBell Canada.
About Unique Broadband Systems, Inc.
------------------------------------
UBS is a publicly listed Canadian company that has a 51.6% fully diluted economic interest in Look Communications Inc. and other assets. With its licensed spectrum through its subsidiary, Look, UBS is a Canadian digital television broadcaster and broadband wireless service provider. The Company's website may be found atwww.uniquebroadband.com.
About Look Communications Inc.
------------------------------
Look's mission is to be an M(3) - Mobile Multi Media - entertainment and information service provider in Ontario and Québec. The Company is developing an M(3) network and currently delivers a full range of communications services, including high-speed and dial-up Internet access, Web applications, digital television distribution, and superior customer service to both the business and residential markets. Look's shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbols "LOK" for Multiple Voting Shares and "LOK.A" for Subordinate Voting Shares. Look's website may be found atwww.look.ca.
The corporate information contained in this release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance of the Company that involves risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable by the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect. The actual results achieved will vary from the information provided herein and the variations may be material. Consequently, there is no representation by UBS and Look that actual results achieved will be the same in whole or in part as those forecasts.
The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept
responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
%SEDAR: 00010550E
For further information: Peter Block, Investor and media relations, E-mail: irinfo@uniquebroadband.com, (403) 531-0331, (416) 586-0180
Ubertino
18 years ago
Thanks! Here's the article for the record:
Look seen fetching top price
Hundreds of millions: Major telecom players expected to fight for key spectrum
Peter Nowak, Financial Post
Published: Monday, December 11, 2006
Digital TV and wireless Internet provider Look Communications Inc. is about to be sold to a major telecommunications company in an auction that will likely fetch into the hundreds of millions of dollars, a source familiar with the company says.
Milton, Ont.-based Look is a relative minnow, with only 100,000 customers and a market capitalization of $29-million. But the company has several lucrative assets in Ontario and Quebec: It owns a sizeable chunk of wireless airwaves, known as spectrum, and a broadcast television licence.
The spectrum is in the 2.5-gigahertz band, the frequency designated in North America for WiMax, which many industry analysts are pegging as the standard for future fourth-generation wireless phone, Internet and television services. The company's $400-million in tax losses is also an asset.
An auction for Look will happen before the end of the year and most major players, including Rogers Communications Inc., BCE Inc. and Telus Corp. are expected to bid, the source said.
Look's spectrum alone is worth in excess of $100-million, the source added.
Look chief executive Gerry McGoey confirmed the company has sent invitations to "tier one" players and that a sale of the company was believed to be "imminent."
"This is not a long process; the assets are pretty easy to value," Mr. McGoey said. "They're well aware of the value of the spectrum, the value of the broadcast asset. These are significant assets that are coveted by a number of people."
Mr. McGoey suggested Look's spectrum is worth much more than $100-million. In the government's last airwave auction in 2001, Bell, Rogers and Telus paid $1.2-billion for Ontario spectrum alone -- and that was for about half the amount, or 92 megahertz, owned by Look.
Industry Canada will sell a new block of spectrum next year and will release a discussion paper on the rules of the auction soon. The government is widely believed to be interested in encouraging more competition in the cellphone market, possibly through setting aside spectrum for new entrants. That would make Look's spectrum more appealing to Bell, Rogers and Telus.
Spokespeople for all three declined to comment on whether their respective firms had interest in Look or its assets.
The company has retained investment bank Greenhill and Co. to explore its strategic options, which could also include a partnership. Greenhill managing director Brad Compton ruled out a sale of just the spectrum asset, however.
Look's shares have skyrocketed on the Toronto Stock Exchange recently, from 9 cents two months ago to 28 cents on Friday.
Trading volume at the end of last week was heavier than usual, with 1.3 million shares changing hands on Thursday and Friday versus a six-month daily average of 146,000.
The top buyer over the past two months was "anonymous," but a source familiar with Look suggested it could be one of the big players -- Bell, Rogers or Telus -- making strategic buys.
Shares of Vaughan, Ont.-based Unique Broadband Systems Ltd., which owns 50% of Look, have also soared. The stock traded at 8 cents two months ago and closed at 39 cents on Friday, also on heavier volume.
- - -
LOOK COMMUNICATIONS INC.
Ticker: LOK/TSX-VEN
Close: $28 cents, up 1 cents cents
Volume: 598,458
Avg. 6-month vol.: 146,000
© National Post 2006
News
Market Data
Customized watchlists with full streaming quotes from leading exchanges, such as NASDAQ, NYSE, AMEX, OTC Markets Small-Cap, LSE and more.
Ask ADVFN Intelligence (AI)
