EDGE stands for (Enhanced Data rate for GSM Evolution). It's designed to make the use of the radio network capacity and spectrum more efficient.
In essence, EDGE changes the encoding of the radio between the GSM base station (BTS) and the mobile device. It adds new techniques for modulation and encoding data using the same radio frequencies. Other than the handset and BTS the rest of the network remains the same, and to the end-user the only change is an increase in data speed.
EDGE is used in conjunction with GPRS. Often referred to as EGPRS, it provides speeds of up to 200kb/s (although the theoretical maxima can be higher). The EDGE standard is built on the existing GSM standard, using the same Time-Division Multiple Access (TDMA) frame structure and existing cell arrangements. EDGE thus provides a three fold increase in data rates by changing the modulation method used on the air interface between the transmitter and the mobile device. EDGE will co-exist alongside normal GPRS as it will require new radios in the transmission network and new devices.
GPRS tends to use only 2 Coding Schemes and the use of these schemes is fixed for each session. EDGE uses 9 Coding Schemes and their use is dynamic. Consequently, if the conditions of the air interface improve so will the data throughput, rising to a theoretical maximum of 236.8 kbps. In reality data rates of 200 kbps have been seen.
In practice, EDGE coverage will take some time to rollout as there will need to be a significant increase in transmission capacity. EDGE and GPRS will co-exist whilst there is a significant number of GPRS handsets in use.
EDGE provides for much higher throughput than GPRS but it should always be remembered that applications will have to operate in a mixed bandwidth environment.
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How EDGE relates to 3G networks
EDGE is often referred to as 2.75G network. It is a further step towards the capacities and capabilities of 3G, offering data speeds that are required for music and videos, however EDGE does not offer Videotelephony.
Orange uses EDGE to compliment the 3G networks, and envisions an end goal where both are available through the Orange footprint, thereby extending the useful life of the 2G infrastructure and licences.
EDGE enabled handsets are still rare, but newer handsets do have EDGE capabilities. These currently include: Treo650, Nokia 6230, 6630,9500.
Full details of the handsets that support EDGE, will be coming soon on this site.
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Where and when is Orange deploying EDGE
The Orange strategy
The Orange mobile broadband strategy is driven by a dual vision: mobile broadband for everyone everywhere, and flexibility through technologies adapted to every environment. Orange is currently deploying EDGE through some of our European footprint, using it as a compliment to 3G. Where Orange does not have a 3G licence, EDGE is used to provide high speed data access. Additionally where 3G coverage is not complete, the 2G network will be boosted by the deployment of EDGE.
Pursuing our goal to drive the usage of mobile multimedia, we are enabling our customers to access broadband services via mobile devices or portable computers, from any location - the countryside, small towns and major metropolitan areas.
EDGE - the natural complement to 3G
In terms of coverage and performance, the EDGE network from Orange will compliment the existing 3G and WiFi networks to ensure continuous mobile broadband access for all customers. Orange customers can view videos, listen to music, or watch live TV on their EDGE mobile phone using the Orange World portal. Business customers can connect simply and easily to their company network, pick up their e-mails, surf the Internet and their Intranet, and access their business applications.
Video, TV and music at the best price for consumers
With EDGE, Orange offers easy access to mobile multimedia services. The use of the existing frequency bands and the GSM infrastructure means our customers will be offered advanced devices that can retransmit video, live television programs or music.
The significant decrease in the cost of wireless data transmission, now one-fifth of the previous cost (starting from 0.20 euro per Mb), will contribute to the growth in consumer usage of mobile multimedia. In addition, the Orange World portal, that currently offers 23 live television channels with 350 new video programs added each is constantly being enhanced. week, is being enhanced with the creation of a page devoted to music.
With its strategy of mobile broadband for everyone, Orange is maintaining its competitive advantage by offering the first nationwide mobile broadband coverage in all of our footprint, the most attractive voice and data communications offers, as well as access to the largest selection of services for both businesses and consumers.
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The facts and figures
The EDGE network in France is geographically the most extensive and technologically the most comprehensive:
45% of the population covered with 3G
85% of the population covered with EDGE
72% of towns and cities with over 100,000 inhabitants
100% of cities with more than 200,000 inhabitants
90% of businesses covered* with EDGE
More than 7,000 WiFi hot spots
