FOMA Technology

Spread Spectrum method
High-quality, high-efficiency transmission

W-CDMA spreads signals over a frequency range several hundred times broader than conventional system's, and allocates single time slots to each user. Since this method allows all users to share the broad bandwidth, splitting the bandwidth becomes unnecessary and transmission efficiency is vastly improved. In addition, spread spectrum is highly resistant to disturbance and noise, and the use of a common frequency in all cells minimizes jamming and interference. The need for frequency-switching when a user moves from one station's coverage to another is eliminated to make high-quality communications possible.

Multirate Transmission Method
Efficient, high-speed processing of various data types

Critical to the success of FOMA is W-CDMA's ability to handle the system's massive data content. This is achieved through the use of multirate transmission that automatically selects the optimal transmission speed and route according to data type and size, to assure high-speed high-quality handling of content including voice, still images and video.

Licensing of Essential Patents for 3G W-CDMA Wireless Technology

NTT DoCoMo is licensing patents essential* to the third-generation (3G) mobile communications system, W-CDMA. Manufacturers interested in obtaining licenses are requested to follow the instructions below.

Please note that in addition to direct licensing, NTT DoCoMo also offers licenses for its W-CDMA essential patents to manufacturers through PlatformWCDMA**.

* "Essential patents" are defined as those patents that are necessary for manufacturing products or systems that satisfy the standards of the relevant standardization committees.

** "PlatformWCDMA" is a company that governs the W-CDMA Patent Licensing Programme. Membership of PlatformWCDMA is open to all holders of W-CDMA certified essential patents. See http://www.3glicensing.com/news.asp.

• 1. Licensing Terms and Conditions
  Licenses will be granted on a non-exclusive, non-discriminatory basis and on reasonable terms.
• 2. Application Process
  To apply for a license, please complete the application form available at the link below and return it by fax. Any inquiries regarding licensing should also be made via the application form. NTT DoCoMo will acknowledge application upon receipt of the form.
  We will use personal information obtained from your application only for the purpose of completing the licensing procedures and not for any other purpose, and we will not share your personal information with other companies without prior consent.
  The Inquiry/Application form should be submitted to:
  Fax: 81-3-5156-0233
• 3. Inquiry/Application Form
  (8K bytes)
• 4. List of Essential Patents
  Please refer to Association of Radio Industries and Businesses (ARIB) and the Telecommunication Technology Committee (TTC)(Japanese only).