Third-generation and beyond (3.5G) wireless networks and its applications

This paper first describes the applications of 3G and beyond wireless networks and general trends. To address these advanced applications, WCDMA HSDPA promises to provide services of up to 10 Mbit/s and higher spectral efficiency for packet data. It represents a major evolution of the air interface since 1997 when the concept of 3G was adopted. We call it "3.5G" in this paper to differentiate the fundamental difference between 3G and 4G. For 4G, it is believed that the air interface of the 4G wireless network will be different from that of the 3G. The basic concept and principles of WCDMA HASDPA are discussed in the paper.