Vodafone claims to have achieved one of the fastest 3G data connections possible [at 20 Mbps] during trials of the HSPA+ MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology.
At present Vodafone offers broadband speeds of up to 7.2Mbps, which is among the fastest on the market, but the latest breakthrough could help raise service speeds. “These test results mean that we will be able to derive even more value from our existing 3G infrastructure while raising the quality of service for our customers.”
MIMO technology effectively uses two antennas in both the handset and the base station to split the radio signal into two separate streams enhancing network capacity as well as the user experience even in dense urban environments.
“Breaking the 20 Mbps peak speed barrier in tests through HSPA+ MIMO is yet another key milestone in the evolution of 3G Mobile Broadband technology and raises the prospect of higher network performance for our customers in selected hotspots,” explained Andy MacLeod, Global Networks Director of Vodafone.
Unfortunately deploying 64QAM and MIMO technology will require purchasing new HSPA+-compatible mobile broadband devices so these speeds will not be arriving for the foreseeable future.
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