MULTITIER WIRELESS ACCESS

The existing cellular and specialised mobile radio (SMR) systems are well positioned to provide service to new cellular and cellular-like customers over the next decade, and analog AMPS is likely to be attractive to support roaming for a number of years. Multitier wireless access and multimode terminals are likely to emerge to support wireless access that is optimized for different types of venues. The allocation of 120 MHz of licensed spectrum for PCS at 2 GHz is likely to encourage the deployment of new wireless technologies such as widespread low-power wireless access, as well as cellular-like technology, to provide new services and permit service differentiation to develop new markets. Satellite-based PCS for remote areas will also emerge. Interoperability of handsets and wireless data terminals with radio ports using both licensed and unlicensed PCS spectrum is likely to be desirable to provide maximum connectivity and optimized service. The FCC's rules for unlicensed PCS operation substantially favor TDMA/TDD operation. © 1995 IEEE