NEC has received a femtocell order from Softbank Mobile for what it claims is the world’s first IMS-based (IP multimedia subsystem) femtocell system.
NEC’s femtocell access point employs the Ubiquisys ZAP (Zonegate Access Point).
Femtocells are mini mobile basestations which will provide 3G mobile coverage in homes and offices. The technology is viewed as the most efficient means of rolling-out 3G mobile services by operators.
IMS-based femtocell systems consist of IMS Cores, femtocell gateways and femtocell access points.
Softbank Mobile plans to have IMS-based femtocell systems prepared for full commercial use commencing in January 2009.
NEC is a member of the Femto Forum.