16 November 2011 – GCF Certification is now able to provide assurance that dual-mode LTE/3G (UMTS/WCDMA) devices can hand-off sessions between the two radio-access technologies (RAT) in ways that conform to the relevant 3GPP standards.
Within weeks of the necessary test cases for dual-mode interworking being agreed, validated and activated by GCF, the Samsung SC-01D became the first dual-mode device to achieve certification. Part of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 range of tablets, the SC-01D supports 2100 MHz LTE together with 3G and its HSPA extension in the 800 & 2100 MHz bands.
“The transition to multi-mode devices is an important progression for LTE as mobile operators and their customers expect devices to operate seamlessly across all available radio access technologies,” said Adriana Nugter, Operations Manager of GCF. “Inter-RAT conformance will give an assurance that a device can combine different access technologies to deliver a consistent service offering.“
GCF operator members from Asia, the Americas and Europe have identified combinations of radio access technologies and spectrum bands for which they expect market demand. These RAT/band combinations will be brought within GCF Certification as the test cases are validated at the required frequencies.
Global Certification Forum – GCF – is an active partnership between network operators, device manufacturers and the test industry. Since its inception in 1999, GCF has created an independent certification programme to help ensure global interoperability between mobile devices and networks. By providing the focal point for the world’s most experienced practitioners in conformance testing, field trials and certification, GCF establishes best practice for the certification of mobile phones and the ever-expanding range of devices that incorporate wireless broadband connectivity. More than 470 different 3GPP mobile phones, wireless modems and connected devices achieved GCF Certification in the 12 months to September 2011.
For further information please visit: www.globalcertificationforum.org
