Digital wireless specialist Qualcomm and Connexion by Boeing are joining forces to test and demonstrate in-flight wireless communications on Boeing’s 737-400 testbed. “We wanted a partner and they have expertise in cellphone and wireless technology,” says Connexion, which has already undertaken a short series of initial test flights with Qualcomm.
These were aimed at demonstrating the simultaneous use of CDMA (code division multiple access) and GSM mobile phones using a small in-cabin CDMA2000 and GSM “picocell” or cellular base station. The wireless signals are then connected to the worldwide terrestrial network by the Connexion by Boeing air-to-ground satellite link. Users on board the demonstration flights were able to download business applications, games, emails and instant messenger applications wirelessly.
The development is seen as further evidence of the move towards the inevitable in-flight use of cellphones. However, both companies say research will continue to “evaluate the potential for interference from multi-technology picocell networks and mobile phones to other aircraft systems and terrestrial networks”. Connexion by Boeing also reveals that “Connexion One”, its ex-KLM 737-400 testbed, will be returned to lessors at the end of the year having completed its role.
Source: Flight International
