Cellular technology moves toward front

The Xiphos system brings the bandwidth capability of 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) cellular communications to mobile warfighters. The product, unveiled at the Defense Intelligence Information Systems (DODIIS) conference in Detroit on May 2, is the first from Oceus Networks Inc. of Reston, Va.

The company spun out from Ericsson at the start of the year when Tailwind Capital acquired Ericsson Federal Inc. The business is now fully U.S. owned, making it easier for domestic companies to buy its gear.

The 4G technology gives the system high bandwidth without sacrificing compatibility with older equipment. That will give it an edge over WiMax systems now often used for forward-edge communications.

“This gives you more interoperability with 3G systems, Edge networks and other communications,” said Todd Pressley, acting chief technology officer for Oceus.“One benefit of 4G technology is that it uses some design techniques to enhance the efficiency of handheld equipment, extending its battery life or providing higher output for more range," he added.

Xiphos is a scalable system, letting users deploy small systems when small teams are operating in remote environments. It can also be scaled to larger boxes that support a large number of users with higher bandwidth.

Pressley noted that although Oceus is an independent company, it will maintain contact with Ericsson and may use its parent’s technology.

“We still have access to the $5 billion in R&D Ericsson spends on cell phone networks, microwave and fiber optics. We can source Ericsson equipment to the federal government,” he said.