Mavenir and Terrestar Achieve Milestone with NTN Voice Call over NB-IoT

Key Takeaways

Mavenir and Terrestar Solutions Inc. achieved a successful Voice over NB-IoT call using Non-Terrestrial Networks.
The call utilized standard codec and specific hardware, and precedes further advancements in NTN-based NB-IoT solutions.
This integration enables satellite operators to provide immediate voice services, enhancing coverage in remote areas.

Recent Advancements in NTN-based Solutions

Mavenir and Terrestar Solutions Inc. (TSI) have made significant strides in the field of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) by successfully completing a Voice over NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) call. This innovation leverages the 3GPP-standardized NTN S-band spectrum, which operates between 2 to 4 GHz and supports satellite communications alongside Wi-Fi and mobile services.

The successful call, conducted in January, showcased the capabilities of Mavenir’s Open RAN and Converged Packet Core, using standard codec technology and Sony’s Altair ALT1250 module. Prior to this achievement, the companies had conducted their first NB-IoT live data sessions via TSI’s Echostar T1 GEO satellite in Allan Park, Ontario. Mavenir integrated a custom Radio Access Network (RAN) interface with TSI’s satellite ground station equipment, paving the way for seamless satellite-based NB-IoT services.

Looking ahead, Mavenir and TSI aim to broaden the adoption of NTN-based NB-IoT solutions. Enhanced capabilities including voice services, expanded 5G NR features, and further testing across Canada are part of their strategic plans. The use of Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites, despite their higher latency due to operating 36,000 km from Earth, is designed to maintain reliable service coverage. In contrast, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites operate at altitudes ranging from 500 to 2,000 km.

Sachin Karkala, senior vice president of Mavenir’s RAN business unit, highlighted the value of satellite services, emphasizing their role in extending coverage to underserved and remote regions. This recent development allows satellite operators to launch voice services promptly, utilizing existing GEO satellites and available spectrum. A simple software update can enable country-wide voice service delivery.

This collaboration between Mavenir and TSI indicates a promising future for NTN solutions in enhancing mobile communication, especially in regions where terrestrial infrastructure is lacking. By leveraging the advantages of satellite technology, the partnership is poised to significantly improve access to voice services in these areas.

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