FMC Technologies

What are the key technologies that can enable fixed mobile convergence?

Internet Protocol based Private Branch Exchanges
(IP-PBX

Fixed line telephony services for medium to large enterprises are increasingly provided via PBX systems based on IP networks. Mobile devices also use IP based networks and this capability is starting to blur the line between fixed and mobile forms of communication. Many PBX providers are now shipping versions of their products that enable mobile handsets to access the enterprise PBX and take advantage of the services offered and the cheaper call rates available.

Voice over IP (VoIP)

Access to Voice over IP calls are one of the immediate benefits to mobile and fixed line users. once the convergence of these networks. There are many VoIP providers offering free or very low cost services and currently these are typically made using PCs or laptops over broadband connection. Most smartphones and some feature phones come with VoIP enabled but typically need to interact with one of the technologies described below to be able to use VoIP services across broadband, 3G or wireless networks.  Please visit our VoIP page for more information.

Wi-Fi

Sometimes referred to as Wireless Fidelity, Wi-Fi is an access technology that enables devices and IP networks to connect. Wi-Fi hotspots are being increasingly deployed and the UK has 12 “wireless cities” using the technology. For more on this please visit our Wi-Fi page

Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA)

This technology provides access between unlicensed spectrum such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and GSM and GPRS handsets that are UMA enabled. This technology was originally conceived as a solution that would eventually be replaced by IMS. UMA solutions are favoured by MNOs as they provide seamless handover for the user but allow the operator to continue billing them for the service. This solution is popular in the USA where 2G home coverage is patchier as UMA provides access to the mobile networks through the home Wi-Fi broadband connection.

3G femto cells

The 3G signal within homes and offices is notoriously patchy for data calls with the result that users experience poor quality if service in such calls. 3G femto (and pico) cells provide a way of helping to improve 3G coverage especially for data calls.

Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)

SIP offers an alternative to UMA by providing the possibility of making VoIP calls to and from handsets via Wi-Fi. If both handsets are connected to the internet the SIP server can connect the calls through each device’s ISP without accessing the operator’s core network. SIP based services include Presence which lets a user see which contacts are currently online. Please visit our SIP page for more information.

IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS)

The IP Multimedia Subsystem is enabled as part of the operator’s core network and as such routes any IP calls through the operator’s core networks enabling them to charge users for VoIP and other data calls. It allows the rapid development of additional services and enables operators to gather detailed information on the services used by each customer and thereby  tailor service offerings accordingly. SIP is part of the suite of protocols used by IMS. One issue for this potential solution is the lack of available IMS handsets.

Voice Call Continuity (VCC)

Users making telephone calls naturally expect to be offered the cheapest available option and this presents problems when they are roaming between networks and access points (such as Wi-Fi hotspots) while on a call. Should they be notified that charges may have increased or should the call continue uninterrupted? Voice Call Continuity (VCC) and the implied “seamless” user experience is regarded as absolutely essential by some whereas others take the view that users must be notified of changes by default to allow them to avoid incurring higher charges.