Nokia Siemens Networks works to improve device battery life

New network feature extends battery life for mobile broadband and voice service subscribers

Nokia Siemens Networks has successfully conducted the world’s first call using a network technology known as “continuous packet connectivity” (CPC).

Once incorporated into an operator’s HSPA+ radio access network, CPC will enable 3G users to enjoy significantly longer device battery life, a crucial issue as the use of smartphones for broadband services skyrockets. CPC can mean up to 100 percent longer battery life when devices are used for data applications, and up to 50 percent during voice calls. The CPC data call was made using network equipment from Nokia Siemens Networks and a device supplied by Qualcomm using the QSC6295™ chipset.

During extended HSPA data sessions, there are typically long periods of idle time between transmissions of data packets, during which a device continues to use its battery. The CPC feature of 3GPP Release 7 uses the “discontinuous transmission and reception” method to shut down the device’s transmitter and receiver during the idle phases to reduce power consumption. It has no effect on the actual data rates experienced by the end-user.

Nokia Siemens Networks’ Flexi Base Station and radio network controller can support the CPC feature with a simple software upgrade. The company is the leader in driving Evolved HSPA, also known as HSPA+. In May 2009, Nokia Siemens Networks and Elisa Finland made the world's first circuit-switched call over HSPA, which

allows operators to simplify and cost-effectively increase voice capacity of their 3G networks.