Chapter 15
Broadband Standards Comparison
15.1 Introduction
There are two different groups of Broadband Standards proposed: the ones based on 3G technologies, like HSPA and EVDO, and the ones based on OFDM technology like WLAN, WiMAX, and LTE. Although throughput claims are similar for both groups, OFDM-based equipment present a more adequate solution for data transmission.
OFDM technologies have similar characteristics and have undergone several rounds of improvements to extend their throughputs.
This chapter presents the OFDM standards side by side. Similar parameters have different names across technologies but, in the tables presented here, they are shown as equivalents and the most representative name is chosen to represent the parameter. This allows the reader to compare parameters and better understand the differences between technologies. These tables can also be used as a quick reference guide for each technology.
15.2 Performance Tables
These tables establish the main technology parameters, such as FFT size, sub-carrier separation, and, consequently, symbol size and bandwidth.
The first set of tables presented here (Tables 15.1, 15.4, 15.7, 15.14 and 15.15) gives WLAN characteristics for 802.11-2007, which is the most successful technology today, being used worldwide, and that gave initial wireless access inside homes; it is even being used outdoors today. The tables also cover 802.11n-2009, the new version of this technology, conceived to provide higher throughput. ...
