vB Easy Archive - WCDMA? isn't it for Data only?

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WCDMA? isn't it for Data only?
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Posted by: B'ichela

I am not clear on this topic. the CDMA cell groups think that WCDMA is going to totally replace GSM. I thought WCDMA was a data protocol for data. Doesn't a WCDMA phone use GSM for voice calls and text messages?

If I'm right, then why are the CDMA groups giving miss communications? If I am wrong.. Can a WCDMA phone be used on a GSM network such as T-mobile? Does a GSM phone work on a WCDMA network?

I like my GSM and my sim cards, but one of my phones is CDMA (Alltel). Doesn;t WCDMA use sim cards too? or is it network programed like my Alltel phone is?

Posted by: JPinNM

Actually, everyone is wrong, and right at the same time.
The really short simple version is.
UMTS is the new global standard. Its what is replacing GSM. WCDMA is the data interface that was designed around UMTS.

WCDMA is to UMTS what GPRS is to GSM.

Posted by: Baldilocks

WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access) is implemented by many GSM carriers as a 3G solution.
It allows for BOTH voice and data and is currently being used for both by AT&T here in the states.

WCDMA as implemented here in North America incorporates both UMTS and HSDPA. UMTS is capable of around 348kbps whereas HSDPA is capable of 1.8Mbps and 3.6Mbps in the near future.

It is a TRUE 3G technology as it allows for both voice and data at the same time. Whereas EVDO (used by Sprint, Verizon and other CDMA carriers) is a one way DATA ONLY technology. Which means you cannot browse the web, download files and make voice calls at the same time.

Posted by: JPinNM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baldilocks

It is a TRUE 3G technology as it allows for both voice and data at the same time. Whereas EVDO (used by Sprint, Verizon and other CDMA carriers) is a one way DATA ONLY technology. Which means you cannot browse the web, download files and make voice calls at the same time.

You know, i should have known that, but today, after i got off the phone on the Q, i was looking at agile messenger funny because it was re-logging onto everything.