The Gobi Effect

How Gobi Affects Mobile Broadband for Laptops

Embedded modems, called miniCards, provide laptops with the RF link to GSM and CDMA networks. They are more convenient, more durable and have better performance than PC cards and USB modems. But embedded modules have not been a prominent feature, nor highly requested by customers. Greater availability of 3G networks and modest decreases in cellular broadband pricing are now greatly improving the value of these devices. However, the main issue affecting embedded module sales is the inherent supply chain friction resulting from the modem certification process. Supply chain friction results because operators want to test every device used on their network. As the number of laptop models with embedded modules increases, more testing is required. Qualcomm – fully aware of these limitations and in a position to address the issues – answered with Gobi, a multiprotocol, multi-band chipset that allows connectivity to both CDMA and GSM networks. Gobi is certainly an antidote to the ills affecting the embedded module and cellular-enabled laptop market. However, Qualcomm and Gobi cannot change all the factors affecting uptake of these devices in the market. The following Research Brief explains the current opportunities and challenges for adoption of internal laptop modems, and details Qualcomm’s solution and its effectiveness for correcting market roadblocks. The brief will also outline other competing solutions and the effect of Gobi on existing cellular modem vendors.

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

Section 1.
Background
1.1. Background
1.2. Embedded Modem Advantages and the Market Opportunity
1.3. Embedded Modem Market Challenges
1.3.1. Wi-Fi
1.3.2. Cellular Broadband Pricing
1.3.3. Subsidized PC Cards and USB Modems
1.3.4. Cellular Network Upgrades and Notebook Investment Protection
1.3.5. Global Cellular Networks
1.3.6. Distribution Disincentives
1.4. How Qualcomm Overcomes Barriers in the Value Chain
1.5. Other Cellular Modem Technologies
1.6. The Effect of Gobi on Today’s Cellular Modem Vendors
1.7. Comparison of Qualcomm’s Gobi and Ericsson’s HSPA Module
1.8. Summary
Table



Tables
  • Network Technologies and Frequencies that Will Connect to the Gobi Chipset