Qualcomm Acquires Small-Cell Specialist

To increase capacity and coverage in mobile networks, most operators are beginning to implement small cells and heterogeneous networks (HetNets). To better support these efforts, Qualcomm, Inc. (www.qualcomm.com) has acquired DesignArt Networks (www.designartnetworks.com). Based in Ra’anana, Israel, DesignArt offers system-on-a-chip (SoC) and software products that enable the design of indoor and outdoor small-cell base stations, in addition to remote radio heads. The firm’s technology also integrates line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) wireless backhaul to reduce the cost of outdoor small-cell deployments.

With this acquisition, Qualcomm adds DesignArt’s Long-Term Evolution (LTE) and backhaul solutions to its existing portfolio of small-cell base-station technologies and complementary Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and passive-optical-networking (PON) connectivity solutions. Both networking customers and operators are expected to benefit from the integration of small-cell and Wi-Fi technologies with various wireless and wireline backhaul options. By more easily supporting the proliferation of indoor and outdoor small cells, these customers and operators will be able to provide coverage and capacity exactly where it is needed.