April 1, 2010 - Novatel Wireless has successfully interoperated with and will be utilizing the Spirent 8100 LTE RF Performance test solution, to test all aspects of its Long Term Evolution (LTE) 4G devices prior to launch. The Spirent 8100 incorporate the LTE Network Emulator which has been developed in collaboration with AT4 wireless.

Built on cutting-edge technologies from Spirent Communications and AT4 wireless, the Spirent 8100 LTE RF Performance test solution delivers a unique multi-technology, multi-cell capability that enables all aspects of LTE multi-mode (LTE with CDMA/EV-DO and/or UMTS) device performance to be fully tested in the lab prior to commercial launch helping to assure high levels of device performance as well as streamlined carrier device accreditation cycles. LTE provides high data rates of up to 50 Mbps on the uplink and 100 Mbps on the downlink, while offering an enhanced user experience by leveraging new, wider bandwidth spectrum. Many operators are already planning to overlay LTE on their 3G networks to augment data capacity. Novatel Wireless is working with operators and plans to launch commercial data devices in late 2010.

"It is critical that LTE-capable devices integrate effortlessly with legacy networks, as user satisfaction with device performance will play an important role in the future success of LTE deployments," said Nigel Wright, vice president of marketing, Spirent Communications. "We look forward to working with Novatel Wireless to help ensure market-leading performance of their LTE devices."

"As a global supplier of testing solutions for wireless technologies, AT4 prides itself on being both the most complete wireless certification and testing laboratory in the world and a leading manufacturer of cutting-edge test and measurement equipment for telecommunication technologies," said Alejandro Torrecilla, business development manager, AT4 wireless. "Working with Novatel Wireless and Spirent allows us to apply our technology to a broader range of markets beyond just device conformance testing, while supporting the continued evolution of advanced wireless technologies."

"Thoroughly validating LTE multi-mode device performance through comprehensive testing prior to launch enables us to offer innovative 4G wireless data products to our customers with the fastest possible time to market," said Rob Hadley, CMO, Novatel Wireless. "Leveraging Spirent's strengths in device performance testing and AT4 wireless' vast experience in conformance testing ensures that our next generation LTE devices perform well and work seamlessly with legacy networks."