On the system design aspects of code division multiple access (CDMA) applied to digital cellular and personal communications networks

A breadboard CDMA digital cellular system was developed by QUALCOMM and demonstrated in San Diego in November 1989. In February 1990, an extensive technical field trial was carried out in midtown Manhattan with NYNEX Mobile. For the purposes of carrying out the CDMA trials and demonstrations, a total of three cell-site and two mobile prototype units were built. In each case, the demonstration system utilized two actual cell sites and one mobile and included A/B comparisons with the commercial analog system. The fundamental features of CDMA, such as power control and soft handoff, were tested and proven in a variety of field conditions. The authors describe the CDMA signal and waveform design, the CDMA system design, CDMA power control, and additional features of CDMA