The convergence of cellular and PMR and the implications for third generation mobile systems

The author discusses a project, initiated by the European railways, to add private mobile radio (PMR) like features into the GSM standard. The project background is briefly described along with the progress of the project. The project would appear to have significant implications to third generation mobile radio systems in that it provides part of the evolutionary path which would allow GSM to meet most of the requirements of UMTS. Further, the experience of the addition of these PMR like features provides some valuable lessons for those undertaking large scale standardisation, and these lessons further reinforce the view that the path to third generation mobile radio is more likely to be evolutionary rather than revolutionary