UK 3G operators to test femtocell technology

3G network operators in the UK are to test a technology that offers 3G speeds to mobile phones even inside a building.

The tests could start by the end of the year, although it is not yet known which operators will take part in the trials.

IP Access is one of several companies that manufacture the femtocell technology. Femtocells are small 3G base stations which can be located in the home. 3G reception in the home can be poor because the phone is out of range of standard 3G base stations.

The femtocell radio base station boosts reception and extends 3G coverage into the home. All it needs is an existing broadband connection to link calls and data services to and from a mobile phone.

Vodafone Group Plc has already issued a request-for-proposal to femtocell vendors. T-Mobile has also shown an interest in the technology.

A group that will promote open standards around the technology, the Femto Forum, launched earlier this week.