3G technology to be defined by speed
The national telecom regulator’s panel working on 3G licensing regulations has concluded that the 3G broadband cellular technology will be defined by its data transmission speed.
The panel, chaired by Prasit Prapinmongkolkarn, a commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), yesterday defined 3G, or third generation mobile phone technology, as cellular technology with a minimum data transmission speed of 384 kilobits per second (Kbps) and capable of maintaining a speed of two megabits per second (Mbps).
Telecom operators must apply for 3G licences if their upcoming cellular technology corresponds with the definition, Prasit said after the NTC’s second meeting yesterday with private telecom suppliers and operators.
The definition will affect some existing telecom operators such as CAT Telecom Plc and will automatically require them to apply for a 3G licence, he said.
CAT is installing a broadband cellular network in 51 provinces.
The NTC says part of the CAT’s installed network features technology that can offer data transmission at 2.4 Mbps in theory but between 300 to 500 Kbps in practice.
