W-CDMA: modeling a moving target

-- EDN, 1/6/2000

Sirius Communications has released the MaxCmizer, a fixed-point ANSI-C model of its CDMAx wideband code-division multiple-access (W-CDMA) transceiver intellectual-property core. Offering a model of the core enables engineers to proceed with ASIC prototype development while the W-CDMA continues to evolve. A configuration package provides parameter settings and algorithm selections for modes such as the third-generation, 384-kbps, high-speed mode for the mobile environment, and a future version will support an 8-kbps, low-rate channel or six-channel Global Positioning System reception with fast acquisition. The model also enables cosimulation of the transceiver core with other baseband functions, including voice codecs, image and video codecs, and processor subsystems, that the system will also integrate. The Unix version is available now, and a Windows 95/98/NT version is under development. Configuration-package updates will be released in accordance with the changing standards. Prices start at $9800.

Sirius Communications, +32 16 44 44 02, www.siriuscomm.com.

-by Nicholas Cravotta