Fixed-mobile convergence

In the telecommunications industry, “fixed-mobile convergence” or FMC is one of the most popular terms today. Fixed-mobile convergence refers to the development of both user devices and network infrastructure which allow seamless interoperability between wireline and wireless networks.

Why should enterprise IT managers pay attention to the emergence of Fixed-mobile convergence systems and services? One reason is that FMC will allow companies to achieve finally the goal of giving employees access to corporate data, on servers or on the employee desktop, from any location. Another reason is that Fixed-mobile convergence may enable employees to use mobile services more often but at lower cost, since wireless devices will switch to a cheaper landline service when possible. Finally, fixed-mobile convergence may support completely new services.

For network operators, NEC provide femtocell technology, a practical and attractive option for a fixed mobile convergence offering. ABI Research has forecasted that by 2011 there will be 102 million users on 32 million femtocell access points worldwide.