Mobile Broadband Modem Integration Choices

Design and IPR Challenges for Consumer Electronics Vendors

Research Report

The ways in which content is loaded into and offloaded from consumer electronics (CE) devices vary greatly. The four most common methods are: memory expansion cards for standalone devices; a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface connector; a Wi-Fi wireless connection; and an embedded cellular or mobile broadband connection.

This Research Report presents the evolution of the connected mobile device and analyzes the choices facing device manufacturers for integration of a mobile broadband modem. What are the pros and cons for each scenario related to the level of integration, the technology licensing implications, and mobile network operator relationships? Device manufacturers should weigh the lifecycle cost of navigating uncharted mobile broadband waters against the up-front costs of integration and certification services. CE device vendors looking to differentiate over time have the opportunity to optimize designs and own more of the total solution as products are accepted by the marketplace.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Executive Summary
    • 1.1. Evolution of the Connected CE Device
    • 1.2. Market Drivers
    • 1.3. Modem Integration Options
    • 1.4. A Myriad of Air Interface Protocols
    • 1.5. Summary

Tables

  1. Modem Integration Options for Mobile Device Designs

Figures

  1. The Evolution of the Connected CE Device