Flexible system techniques for future personable mobile communications

The universal mobile telecommunication system (UMTS) currently being studied under the European RACE mobile project has defined a mission to achieve a pocket communicator for universal access to all telecommunication services by the year 2000. The key features will be the introduction of a mixed cell architecture with microcells overlaying macrocells, and a flexible air interface with adaptive bit rates. A versatile fixed network infrastructure with the capabilities of an intelligent network and compatibility with the future broadband and existing networks will also be implemented. The author focuses on the vital technologies which are crucial for the realization of the UMTS. The potential of the UMTS for Europe and worldwide are also discussed.<>