New iGR Study Discusses LTE Carrier Aggregation, a Possible Solution to the LTE Spectrum Problem but With Many Issues

LTE Carrier Aggregation Will Provide Carriers a More Efficient Use of Their Available Spectrum


AUSTIN, TX--(Marketwire - Feb 7, 2013) - The next significant step in the evolution of LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) networks will be the deployment of Carrier Aggregation (CA), which allows for a more efficient use of available licensed spectrum. Small pieces of spectrum, which alone are not sufficient to support an LTE channel, are available in multiple bands. CA allows these 'left overs' to be 'glued' together into a larger spectrum block suitable for LTE.

iGR anticipates that by the end of 2013, there will be over 150 LTE-A networks operating in approximately 70 countries world-wide in preparation for the arrival of many new devices that will utilize these new networks. As innovative as these new devices are, much work remains to be completed until the mobile operators provide sufficient spectrum to support these devices.

"Spectrum acquisition and management is a huge problem that is clamoring for a quick solution. iGR believes that in the next several years there could be approximately 20 separate and distinct LTE-A bands in use globally, very few of which will have 20 MHz of spectrum available," said Iain Gillott, president and founder of iGR, a market research consultancy focused on the wireless and mobile industry. "Carrier Aggregation may be a potential solution to the spectrum problem, but it will likely not be totally realized until the end of this decade."

iGR's new market research report, "LTE Carrier Aggregation: The Panacea to the Spectrum Problem?," provides an introduction to Carrier Aggregation and discusses the implications for the mobile industry, as well as timing for potential implementation.

The following key questions are addressed in the new research study:

  • What is Carrier Aggregation?
  • What are the standards relating to Carrier Aggregation?
  • How does Carrier Aggregation work?
  • What is inter-carrier and intra-carrier CA?
  • What are the implications for mobile networks of CA?
  • What are the mobile device issues for CA?
  • What are the strengths and opportunities for CA in the mobile market?
  • What are the weaknesses and threats for CA in the mobile market?
  • Who are the likely mobile infrastructure OEMs and device vendors impacted by CA?

The information in this report will be valuable for:

  • Mobile network operators
  • Mobile infrastructure OEMs
  • Mobile device OEMs
  • Financial analysts and investors

The new report can be purchased and downloaded directly from iGR's website at www.iGR-inc.comAlternatively, contact Iain Gillott at (512) 263-5682 or at Iain@iGR-inc.com for additional details.

About iGR
iGR is a market strategy consultancy focused on the wireless and mobile communications industry. Founded by Iain Gillott, one of the wireless industry's leading analysts, in late 2000 as iGillottResearch, iGR is now entering its thirteenth year of operation. iGR continuously researches emerging and existent technologies, technology industries, and consumer markets. We use our detailed research to offer a range of services to help companies improve their position in the marketplace, clearly define their future direction, and ultimately improve their bottom line.

iGR researches a range of wireless and mobile products and technologies, including: smartphones; tablets; mobile applications; bandwidth demand and use; small cell architectures; DAS; LTE; WiMAX; VoLTE; IMS; NFC; GSM/GPRS/UMTS/HSPA; CDMA 1x/EV-DO; iDEN; SIP; macro-, pico- and femtocells; mobile backhaul; WiFi and WiFi offload; and SIM and UICC.

A more complete profile of the company can be found at www.igr-inc.com.

Contact Information:

Contact iGR
Iain Gillott
(512) 263-5682