NEC announced its selection by NTT DoCoMo to provide core network “EPC” (Evolved Packet Core) systems that support NTT DoCoMo’s “Super 3G” next generation mobile phone networks.

NEC has already been selected as a Super 3G wireless base station and terminal provider; this latest order places NEC in a position to become a total Super 3G system vendor that provides NTT DoCoMo with essential communications infrastructure and terminals.

Super3G is a standard system and an advanced version of the W-CDMA-extended technologies HSDPA and HSUPA. The system, which achieves outstanding data transmission speeds of 100Mbps or more in downlink and 50Mbps or more in uplink access, is designed to reduce delays in data transmission and improve frequency usage efficiency.

EPC is an advanced system that supports high speed Super 3G communications, and quickly and smoothly delivers such services as image applications between mobile phones or between mobile phones and data servers. It is composed of the following three systems: “Mobility Management Entity” system to register Super 3G device positions, process incoming device calls and coordinate handover between wireless base stations; “Serving Gateway” for processing data related to voice and packets for 3G and Super 3G systems; “PDN Gateway” for interfacing with EPC, IMS and/or external packet networks.

NTT DoCoMo’s decision to have NEC provide the core network, mobile terminals and wireless base stations, for its Super 3G system can largely be credited to the highly regarded performance of equipment and know-how that NEC has provided for existing 3G (FOMA) systems.

Looking forward, NEC will continue to support the expansion of NTT DoCoMo business with its comprehensive solutions that contribute to the growth of next generation mobile infrastructure throughout the world.

EPC is being considered by the W-CDMA standardization organization, 3GPP, and NEC is taking an active role in the standardization process, including the vice-chairmanship and a variety of key member positions.

NEC’s EPC is capable of processing voice and data transmission for LTE and existing 3G mobile phone networks, as well as conducting handover between non 3GPP compliant networks, including WLAN and CDMA-2000, in accordance with requirements from mobile operators.