Swisscom has started testing a combination of the fixed-line and mobile networks to deliver faster broadband services. The DSL+LTE bonding pilot project involves selected residential customers. This technology combines the bandwidths of fixed-line and mobile networks, thereby allowing customers to benefit from a higher speed.
Swisscom has developed a LTE receiver that picks up the mobile data stream and passes it on via WLAN to the DSL router. The router is equipped with intelligent software that combines the mobile and fixed-line data streams, thereby providing customers with additional speed.
After successful tests in the laboratory and with Swisscom employees, a pilot trial will be held in January with selected residential customers. The technology allows for bandwidths of up to 20 Mbps in its initial phase. Higher bandwidths will also be tested in later phases.
The availability of DSL+LTE bonding and the actual bandwidth are determined by the length of the copper fixed line and the 3G or 4G mobile coverage at the customer’s home. Swisscom aims to use the pilot test to determine whether a market launch is feasible. Similar services were launched recently in Greece by Vodafone and OTE, while Deutsche Telekom already offers a hybrid DSL-mobile broadband service for over a year in Germany.
Source: http://www.telecompaper.com/news/swisscom-to-test-dsllte-bonding-broadband-service--1123349