Transmitting content using guard band frequencies at reduced power

The described technology is generally directed towards transmitting content in a guard band (marginal/edge) spectrum, in which the power level corresponds to a frequency associated with the transmission. One or more criteria such as a desired quality of service level of the content to transmit, measured noise data and so on are used to select a guard band frequency/power level for the transmission. The content transmission within this spectrum, at a lower downlink sector power level that protects adjacent channel users, allows delivery of multicast/broadcast content to a broad population of devices in an area, for example, and frees up primary carrier channels for other communications such as voice and high speed data communications.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject application is related to wireless communication systems, and, for example, to transmitting content in a wireless communication system using unused edge spectrum frequencies.

BACKGROUND

In mobile communications, there are many types of information transmitted to user equipment other than voice and data for conventional interactive services. Such other information often has relatively modest quality of service requirements coupled with communal broadcast or multicast bit rate requirements.

With contemporary packet scheduling, there is a consistent flow of such other (e.g., bulk) information over standard bearer channels, which leads to the overcommitment of conventional physical resource blocks to meet each individual device's communications requirements. Reduced voice and data capabilities can result from using these physical resource blocks for bulk information communications.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Briefly, one or more aspects of the technology described herein are generally directed towards using the edge (marginal) spectrum, that is, a spectrum currently reserved as an unused guard band, to deliver multicast/broadcast content to a broad population of devices in an area. In general, the technology lowers the downlink power level as the signals approach the edge of the operational carrier's licensed spectrum (the edge of the guard band), which protects adjacent channel users.

As used herein with respect to guard bands, the term “frequency” refers to a certain selected frequency within a guard band for transmitting communications, such as a center frequency for a communications signal with some range of frequencies above and below the center frequency. Note that a guard band may be divided into frequency-based channels, however there is no requirement that such channels be the same bandwidth/evenly spaced. For example, one type of data may need more bandwidth than another type of data, and thus for example the guard band may be dynamically allocated into center frequencies having different bandwidths as needed, and reallocated as desired. For purposes of brevity, the term “channel” may be used herein with respect to a guard band center frequency with a chosen bandwidth selected for transmitting information, however it is understood that channels as used herein may or may not be evenly spaced, and/or may or may not be the same bandwidth as each other.

Further, a guard band frequency that is being used may be shared, such as by time division, code division and so on. Thus, for example, a frequency being used for transmitting one type of information may be used for transmitting another type of information in a shared manner.

One or more guard band channels can be one-way with respect to communications, e.g., with a “best effort” form of quality of service (QoS). One or more guard band channels can be associated with a conventional backchannel to request retransmissions embedded in the broadcast stream, or be sent to a specific device over another bearer channel to the device.

The technology implements a downlink scheme that transmits from a sector at a reduced power level gradually trending toward zero as the edge of the licensed spectrum is approached. Further, the actual transmitter power from the sector can be based on the “empty channel” noise measured at the site (and possibly adjacent site data) obtained in background operations so as to minimize potential interference.

In this way, the marginal spectrum is useable for additional, lower power, narrowband multicast/broadcast carriers. Examples of information transmitted include low-resolution video and audio streams, software and reference data updates, community alerts, traffic and weather reports and so on. As can be readily appreciated, this provides opportunities to sell value added services, such as media downloads for the Internet of Things (IoT), connected car data, mobile devices, weather and traffic alerts, and so on, possibly providing new pricing options for subscribers that do not need maximum speed or constant data flow options for certain information.

Enabling adjacent spectrum operation using guard bands to carry low latency/speed communications frees up the primary channels (existing Physical Resource Blocks) and results in better voice and data capabilities for such conventional interactive services. This may correlate with a cost savings alternative to having full channel capabilities not needed for such low throughput needs.

It should be understood that any of the examples and terms used herein are non-limiting. For instance, the technology may be implemented in 4G as well as New Radio (NR, sometimes referred to as 5G) communications between a user equipment exemplified as a smartphone or the like and network device; however virtually any communications devices may benefit from the technology described herein. Further, the various types of information indicated as suitable for transmission over guard band frequencies are not limited to those exemplified herein. Thus, any of the embodiments, aspects, concepts, structures, functionalities or examples described herein are non-limiting, and the technology may be used in various ways that provide benefits and advantages in radio communications in general.

FIG. 1illustrates an example wireless communication system100in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject technology. In one or more embodiments, the system100can comprise a network device102(e.g., a network node) and one or more user equipment UEs104(1)-104(n).

In various embodiments, the system100is or comprises a wireless communication network serviced by one or more wireless communication network providers. In example embodiments, a UE104(1) can be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication network via the network device102/network node (e.g., network node device). The network device102can communicate with the UEs104(1)-104(n), thus providing connectivity between the UEs104(1)-104(n) and the wider cellular network.

In example implementations, a UE such as the UE104(1) is able to send and/or receive communication data via a wireless link to the network device102. The dashed arrow lines from the network device102to the UEs104(1)-104(n) represent downlink (DL) communications and the solid arrow lines from the UEs104(1)-104(n) to the network device102represent uplink (UL) communications.

The system100can further include one or more communication service provider networks that facilitate providing wireless communication services to various UEs, including the UEs104(1)-104(n), via the network device102and/or various additional network devices (not shown) included in the one or more communication service provider networks. The one or more communication service provider networks can include various types of disparate networks, including but not limited to: cellular networks, femto networks, picocell networks, microcell networks, internet protocol (IP) networks Wi-Fi service networks, broadband service network, enterprise networks, cloud based networks, and the like. For example, in at least one implementation, system100can be or include a large scale wireless communication network that spans various geographic areas. According to this implementation, the one or more communication service provider networks can be or include the wireless communication network and/or various additional devices and components of the wireless communication network (e.g., additional network devices and cell, additional UEs, network server devices, etc.).

The network device102can be connected to the one or more communication service provider networks via one or more backhaul links. For example, the one or more backhaul links can comprise wired link components, such as a T1/E1 phone line, a digital subscriber line (DSL) (e.g., either synchronous or asynchronous), an asymmetric DSL (ADSL), an optical fiber backbone, a coaxial cable, and the like. The one or more backhaul links can also include wireless link components, such as but not limited to, line-of-sight (LOS) or non-LOS links which can include terrestrial air-interfaces or deep space links (e.g., satellite communication links for navigation).

The wireless communication system100can employ various cellular systems, technologies, and modulation schemes to facilitate wireless radio communications between devices (e.g., the UE104(1) and the network device102). While example embodiments might be described for 5G new radio (NR) systems, the embodiments can be applicable to any radio access technology (RAT) or multi-RAT system where the UE operates using multiple carriers e.g. LTE FDD/TDD, GSM/GERAN, CDMA2000 etc. For example, the system100can operate in accordance with global system for mobile communications (GSM), universal mobile telecommunications service (UMTS), long term evolution (LTE), LTE frequency division duplexing (LTE FDD, LTE time division duplexing (TDD), high speed packet access (HSPA), code division multiple access (CDMA), wideband CDMA (WCMDA), CDMA2000, time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), multi-carrier code division multiple access (MC-CDMA), single-carrier code division multiple access (SC-CDMA), single-carrier FDMA (SC-FDMA), orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), discrete Fourier transform spread OFDM (DFT-spread OFDM) single carrier FDMA (SC-FDMA), Filter bank based multi-carrier (FBMC), zero tail DFT-spread-OFDM (ZT DFT-s-OFDM), generalized frequency division multiplexing (GFDM), fixed mobile convergence (FMC), universal fixed mobile convergence (UFMC), unique word OFDM (UW-OFDM), unique word DFT-spread OFDM (UW DFT-Spread-OFDM), cyclic prefix OFDM CP-OFDM, resource-block-filtered OFDM, Wi Fi, WLAN, WiMax, and the like. However, various features and functionalities of system100are particularly described wherein the devices (e.g., the UEs102and the network device104) of system100are configured to communicate wireless signals using one or more multi carrier modulation schemes, wherein data symbols can be transmitted simultaneously over multiple frequency subcarriers (e.g., OFDM, CP-OFDM, DFT-spread OFMD, UFMC, FMBC, etc.). The embodiments are applicable to single carrier as well as to multicarrier (MC) or carrier aggregation (CA) operation of the UE. The term carrier aggregation (CA) is also called (e.g. interchangeably called) “multi-carrier system”, “multi-cell operation”, “multi-carrier operation”, “multi-carrier” transmission and/or reception. Note that some embodiments are also applicable for Multi RAB (radio bearers) on some carriers (that is data plus speech is simultaneously scheduled).

In various embodiments, the system100can be configured to provide and employ 5G wireless networking features and functionalities. With 5G networks that may use waveforms that split the bandwidth into several sub-bands, different types of services can be accommodated in different sub-bands with the most suitable waveform and numerology, leading to an improved spectrum utilization for 5G networks. Notwithstanding, in the mmWave spectrum, the millimeter waves have shorter wavelengths relative to other communications waves, whereby mmWave signals can experience severe path loss, penetration loss, and fading. However, the shorter wavelength at mmWave frequencies also allows more antennas to be packed in the same physical dimension, which allows for large-scale spatial multiplexing and highly directional beamforming.

Performance can be improved if both the transmitter and the receiver are equipped with multiple antennas. Multi-antenna techniques can significantly increase the data rates and reliability of a wireless communication system. The use of multiple input multiple output (MIMO) techniques, which was introduced in the third-generation partnership project (3GPP) and has been in use (including with LTE), is a multi-antenna technique that can improve the spectral efficiency of transmissions, thereby significantly boosting the overall data carrying capacity of wireless systems. The use of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) techniques can improve mmWave communications; MIMO can be used for achieving diversity gain, spatial multiplexing gain and beamforming gain.

Note that using multi-antennas does not always mean that MIMO is being used. For example, a configuration can have two downlink antennas, and these two antennas can be used in various ways. In addition to using the antennas in a 2×2 MIMO scheme, the two antennas can also be used in a diversity configuration rather than MIMO configuration. Even with multiple antennas, a particular scheme might only use one of the antennas (e.g., LTE specification's transmission mode1, which uses a single transmission antenna and a single receive antenna). Or, only one antenna can be used, with various different multiplexing, precoding methods etc.

The MIMO technique uses a commonly known notation (M×N) to represent MIMO configuration in terms number of transmit (M) and receive antennas (N) on one end of the transmission system. The common MIMO configurations used for various technologies are: (2×1), (1×2), (2×2), (4×2), (8×2) and (2×4), (4×4), (8×4). The configurations represented by (2×1) and (1×2) are special cases of MIMO known as transmit diversity (or spatial diversity) and receive diversity. In addition to transmit diversity (or spatial diversity) and receive diversity, other techniques such as spatial multiplexing (comprising both open-loop and closed-loop), beamforming, and codebook-based precoding can also be used to address issues such as efficiency, interference, and range.

InFIG. 1, as described herein, the exemplified network device102includes or is coupled to communication data handling logic106, which provides for conventional communication of data108, e.g., voice, high resolution video, audio and so forth. Transmit/receive components110may operate in a conventional manner to communicate bidirectionally with the user equipment102.

As described herein, the exemplified network device102further includes guard band frequency and power selection logic112for transmitting added services data114to the user equipment over one or more guard band frequencies. As described herein, one or more selection criteria116, such as a desired quality of service level associated with the type of data may factor into which guard band frequency is selected for a data transmission. The data transmission may be multicast, broadcast or directed to as little as a single user equipment, and may be one directional or bidirectional. Note that for bidirectional communication, a return communication from a user equipment need not be in a guard band frequency spectrum, but rather can use the main carrier spectrum.

FIG. 2represents various aspects that may be considered by the guard band frequency and power selection logic112in deciding what frequency (e.g., center frequency/channel) to use for a data communication. As set forth herein, the transmission power level decreases the closer that the selected frequency gets to the edge of the carrier spectrum, e.g., as the selected frequency approaches the very edge of the guard band. Thus, one selection criteria216may be a desired quality of service level associated with a particular type of content to transmit222; for example a higher desired quality of service may be associated with a higher power level, which thus factors into the frequency224that is selected. As there are some technical physical limits to operating adjacent to carriers, power limits as “Not to exceed xx dBm or dBc to adjacent carrier” or the like may be specified. For example, because most transmitters already fall under a −60 dBc requirement for adjacent channels, the adjacent carrier (in the guard band) cannot operate below approximately −50 dBc of the primary carrier. This can provide an adequate (not optimal) level of operation for most devices that are operating in this environment. Operating lower than this likely impairs the function itself and thus would negate the ability of the device to operate. If the guard band channels are further away, that number can be increased as well.

Further, the power level that is needed may be adjusted based on measured noise data. The noise data may be measured at the site (block226) from which the data is to be transmitted to one or more user equipment within that site's corresponding cell, as well as adjacent site noise measurement data (blocks228(1)-228(m)). Note that these noise data measurements need not be weighted the same, e.g., adjacent site noise measurements may not be given as much weight as the present site's noise data. For example, the needed transmission power level may be increased to compensate for measured noise, whereby the frequency that is selected needs to be one that can support at least that power level.

By way of example, and not limitation, a power adjustment protocol or interpretation may be based upon knowing the transmission power on the host equipment (as determined by adjacent power limits). For example, if based on a maximum power of 23 dBm, that equates to “0 dB” correction. For every decibel of power reduced to accommodate the adjacent power limits, the mobile device transmission can be attenuated to maintain path balance maximum transmission levels. Power control for operational needs can be adjustable for minimum power needed to perform data services not to exceed maximum permissible power, as determined by the analysis of the host transmitter power(s).

The frequency-to-power level association relationships may be determined empirically and/or calculated in any suitable manner. These association data may for example be maintained in a power/frequency data structure230such as a table. The guard band frequency and power selection logic may read the data structure230to find a suitable frequency once the needed power is obtained/determined.

For example, as shown inFIG. 3, this may be based on a quality of service level332(if any) associated with the content to transmit and the current noise measurement data334. Any other data338may be used by the guard band frequency power selection logic112as power level and/or frequency selection criteria. Examples of other criteria may include whether a content transmission is unidirectional or bidirectional, broadcast or multicast, how much bandwidth is needed, the rate (e.g., amount of data per time slice) and so on.

Another factor that may determine the frequency to be used is whether a suitable frequency is available for data transmission or is currently in use for other data transmission(s). For example, for content A the guard band frequency and power selection logic112may have previously chosen a channel (a center frequency with a suitable bandwidth) for that type of content A, and (assuming the frequency is not able to be shared) thus cannot again choose that guard band channel for content B unless and until content A no longer needs to be transmitted. As can be readily appreciated, for any guard band frequency, the power frequency data structure230can record (e.g., as written by the guard band frequency in power selection logic112) which guard band frequency (along with its allocated bandwidth) is currently unavailable for use, which is available for use in a shared manner only (and if so any limitations on rate and the like), which is fully available, and so on.

FIG. 4represents a band of frequencies (shown vertically) divided into a main carrier spectrum440, a guard band spectrum442(belonging to the main carrier) and an adjacent spectrum444such as of some other entity, e.g., another carrier (although it is also feasible for the same carrier to own or license the main and adjacent spectrum, but separate them for different purposes). The adjacent spectrum typically has a guard band spectrum (not separately shown), and there is typically a guard band spectrum at the other end of the main carrier spectrum, (also not shown).

As represented inFIG. 4, the guard band spectrum442has two selected frequency ranges (e.g., channels)446and448for transmission, namely selected frequency1at power level Y (indicated by the dashed lines corresponding to range446) and selected frequency2at power level X (indicated by the dashed lines corresponding to range448). Because the power level goes down as the selected frequency approaches the adjacent spectrum444, it is noted that power level Y is greater than power level X.

Also shown inFIG. 4are different bandwidths associated with the selected frequencies, e.g. selected frequency one represented by the range of frequencies446is narrower than the range of frequencies448centered at selected frequency2. Note that this is only one alternative, and channels of same size frequency ranges may be used.

FIGS. 5 and 6shows example logic in the form of operations exemplified as steps that may be used to select a frequency (e.g., If a center frequency along with suitable bandwidth, if bandwidth this not fixed). Step502ofFIG. 5represents obtaining the content to transmit, which may be provided by any appropriate source. Step504represents obtaining the desired quality of service level associated with the content. Note that the default level may be present if one is not specified.

Step506represents obtaining the noise data, e.g., measured at the site and one or more adjacent sites. Based on the noise data and the quality of service level a minimum power level needed for the transmission is determined (step508). For example this may be a mathematical computation or obtained from lookup tables or the like and so on. Once the minimum power level is determined, a frequency that is capable of supporting that power level is selected.

To select the frequency, one alternative is to have the power and frequency selection logic access the data structure of power levels and frequencies (step510) to determine via step512whether a frequency is available to handle transmission of the content. Note that if no such frequency is available, step514represents handling the problem, e.g., by conflict resolution (cancel transmission of lower priority content), using the main carrier spectrum, or some other solution such as to schedule transmission of the content when a suitable frequency becomes available.

If a suitable frequency exists, the process continues to step602ofFIG. 6which selects a frequency to use, (and if not fixed, the bandwidth on either side). One way to select the frequency is to use the closest frequency to the adjacent carrier spectrum that meets the needed power level requirements; in this way, content transmission does not consume a frequency that a content transmission needing more power can use.

Step604represents the logic setting the frequency (e.g., the upper and lower frequencies corresponding to the bandwidth) as unavailable, or partially unavailable if the frequency range can be shared, which if already being shared may make the entire frequency unavailable.

Steps606and608perform the content transmission using the selected frequency at the corresponding power level. When done, step610sets the frequency back to available, or at least the shared part of the frequency corresponding to the content transmission.

FIG. 7shows alternative selection logic in the form of operations exemplified as steps that look for an available frequency starting from the minimum power level needed. Note that step702through steps708are at least generally similar to those of steps502through steps508ofFIG. 5and are thus not described separately herein.

Step710starts the frequency selection process based on the minimum power level needed for the content transmission by selecting the frequency appropriate for the minimum power level and determining if that frequency (including the needed bandwidth) is in use. If not, step714transmits the content at that frequency and the frequency's associated power level for as long as needed.

If the frequency at step712is in use, step712branches to step714to look for another frequency, e.g., at a higher power level. If no such other frequency exists, step718results the problem in a similar way to step514described above with reference toFIG. 5. Otherwise, step720selects the next closest frequency/higher power level and so on until a frequency is found that can be used or none remain to be evaluated.

As can be seen, by using the unused marginal guard band spectrum, e.g., adjacent an existing carrier, at a lower downlink sector power level, the technology can leverage additional capabilities while increasing spectrum efficiency and the monetization of valuable spectrum resources. The devices and services operating in these marginal downstream segments of the spectrum can benefit from the support of “push” type of services, such as advertising, software and data updates, vehicle traffic, emergency alerts (Amber, Sigalert, Weather, etc.) and low resolution video.

One or more aspects, exemplified in example operations ofFIG. 8, comprise selecting, by a network device comprising a processor, a frequency to use for communication with a user equipment, wherein the frequency is within a guard band spectrum adjacent a frequency spectrum of a transmitting device (operation802). Aspects comprise determining, by the network device, a transmission power level associated with the frequency based on a determination criterion (operation804), and communicating, by the network device, information to the user equipment at the frequency and at the transmission power level (operation806).

Selecting the frequency may be based on evaluating a defined quality of service level of the information to be communicated to the user equipment. The frequency may be a first frequency, and determining the transmission power level may comprise determining the transmission power level based on a difference of the first frequency relative to a second frequency in the frequency spectrum of the transmitting device. Determining the transmission power level based on the difference of the first frequency relative to the second frequency may comprise reducing the power transmission level as a relative frequency difference of the first frequency relative to the second frequency becomes smaller.

Determining the transmission power level may comprise determining the transmission power level based on noise measurement data. Aspects may comprise obtaining, by the network device, the noise measurement data at a location from which the communicating the information by the network device occurs. Other aspects may comprise obtaining, by the network device, the noise measurement data at a location from which the communicating the information occurs and from adjacent site data adjacent to the location.

Communicating the information to the user equipment at the frequency and at the transmission power level may comprise transmitting a one-way data transmission from the network device to the user equipment. Aspects may comprise transmitting, by the network device, frequency data and power level data to the user equipment for use by the user equipment in transmitting other information back to the network device.

Communicating the information to the user equipment at the frequency and at the transmission power level may comprise transmitting video data to the user equipment. Communicating the information to the user equipment at the frequency at the transmission power level may comprise transmitting a software update to the user equipment. Communicating the information to the user equipment at the frequency at the transmission power level may comprise transmitting traffic information or weather information to the user equipment. Communicating the information to the user equipment at the frequency at the transmission power level may comprise transmitting a text message to the user equipment.

One or more aspects, represented inFIG. 9, such as in a network device comprising a processor and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, facilitate performance of operations, are exemplified in operations902,904and906. Operation902is based on a selection criterion, and comprises identifying, by a network device, a selected frequency for communication with a user equipment, wherein the selected frequency is within a guard band spectrum that is adjacent a frequency spectrum of a transmitting entity other than the network device. Operation904comprises identifying a determined transmission power level associated with the frequency based on the selected frequency relative to the frequency spectrum of the transmitting entity. Operation906comprises communicating information to the user equipment using the selected frequency at the determined transmission power level.

Identifying the selected frequency may comprise evaluating a defined quality of service level of the information. Identifying the determined transmission power level may be further based on noise measurement data obtained relative to a site corresponding to the network device. Communicating the information to the user equipment may comprise transmitting at least one of: video data, audio data, software, a data update, traffic information, weather information, a text message or an alert.

One or more aspects, exemplified as example operations inFIG. 10, comprise, based on a selection criterion, determining a selected frequency to use in connection with communicating with a user equipment, wherein the selected frequency is within a guard band spectrum next to a frequency spectrum of a transmitting device other than the network device (operation1002). Operation1004comprises communicating information to the user equipment according to the selected frequency at a frequency-based transmission power level.

Determining the selected frequency based on the selection criterion may comprise determining the frequency-based transmission power level based on noise data and data indicating how close the selected frequency is to the frequency spectrum of the transmitting device. Determining the selected frequency based on the selection criterion may comprise determining the frequency-based transmission power level based on data indicating how close the selected frequency is to the frequency spectrum of the other transmitting entity, based on noise data, and based on a specified quality of service level for the information.

Referring now toFIG. 11, illustrated is an example block diagram of an example mobile handset1100operable to engage in a system architecture that facilitates wireless communications according to one or more embodiments described herein. Although a mobile handset is illustrated herein, it will be understood that other devices can be a mobile device, and that the mobile handset is merely illustrated to provide context for the embodiments of the various embodiments described herein. The following discussion is intended to provide a brief, general description of an example of a suitable environment in which the various embodiments can be implemented. While the description includes a general context of computer-executable instructions embodied on a machine-readable storage medium, those skilled in the art will recognize that the innovation also can be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

A computing device can typically include a variety of machine-readable media. Machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media can comprise computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media can include volatile and/or non-volatile media, removable and/or non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media can include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, solid state drive (SSD) or other solid-state storage technology, Compact Disk Read Only Memory (CD ROM), digital video disk (DVD), Blu-ray disk, or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computer. In this regard, the terms “tangible” or “non-transitory” herein as applied to storage, memory or computer-readable media, are to be understood to exclude only propagating transitory signals per se as modifiers and do not relinquish rights to all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media that are not only propagating transitory signals per se.

The handset includes a processor1102for controlling and processing all onboard operations and functions. A memory1104interfaces to the processor1102for storage of data and one or more applications1106(e.g., a video player software, user feedback component software, etc.). Other applications can include voice recognition of predetermined voice commands that facilitate initiation of the user feedback signals. The applications1106can be stored in the memory1104and/or in a firmware1108, and executed by the processor1102from either or both the memory1104or/and the firmware1108. The firmware1108can also store startup code for execution in initializing the handset1100. A communications component1110interfaces to the processor1102to facilitate wired/wireless communication with external systems, e.g., cellular networks, VoIP networks, and so on. Here, the communications component1110can also include a suitable cellular transceiver1111(e.g., a GSM transceiver) and/or an unlicensed transceiver1113(e.g., Wi-Fi, WiMax) for corresponding signal communications. The handset1100can be a device such as a cellular telephone, a PDA with mobile communications capabilities, and messaging-centric devices. The communications component1110also facilitates communications reception from terrestrial radio networks (e.g., broadcast), digital satellite radio networks, and Internet-based radio services networks

The handset1100includes a display1112for displaying text, images, video, telephony functions (e.g., a Caller ID function), setup functions, and for user input. For example, the display1112can also be referred to as a “screen” that can accommodate the presentation of multimedia content (e.g., music metadata, messages, wallpaper, graphics, etc.). The display1112can also display videos and can facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. A serial I/O interface1114is provided in communication with the processor1102to facilitate wired and/or wireless serial communications (e.g., USB, and/or IEEE 1194) through a hardwire connection, and other serial input devices (e.g., a keyboard, keypad, and mouse). This supports updating and troubleshooting the handset1100, for example. Audio capabilities are provided with an audio I/O component1116, which can include a speaker for the output of audio signals related to, for example, indication that the user pressed the proper key or key combination to initiate the user feedback signal. The audio I/O component1116also facilitates the input of audio signals through a microphone to record data and/or telephony voice data, and for inputting voice signals for telephone conversations.

The handset1100can include a slot interface1118for accommodating a SIC (Subscriber Identity Component) in the form factor of a card Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) or universal SIM1120, and interfacing the SIM card1120with the processor1102. However, it is to be appreciated that the SIM card1120can be manufactured into the handset1100, and updated by downloading data and software.

A video processing component1122(e.g., a camera) can be provided for decoding encoded multimedia content. The video processing component1122can aid in facilitating the generation, editing, and sharing of video quotes. The handset1100also includes a power source1124in the form of batteries and/or an AC power subsystem, which power source1124can interface to an external power system or charging equipment (not shown) by a power I/O component1126.

The handset1100can also include a video component1130for processing video content received and, for recording and transmitting video content. For example, the video component1130can facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. A location tracking component1132facilitates geographically locating the handset1100. As described hereinabove, this can occur when the user initiates the feedback signal automatically or manually. A user input component1134facilitates the user initiating the quality feedback signal. The user input component1134can also facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. The user input component1134can include such conventional input device technologies such as a keypad, keyboard, mouse, stylus pen, and/or touch screen, for example.

Referring again to the applications1106, a hysteresis component1136facilitates the analysis and processing of hysteresis data, which is utilized to determine when to associate with the access point. A software trigger component1138can be provided that facilitates triggering of the hysteresis component1136when the Wi-Fi transceiver1113detects the beacon of the access point. A SIP client1140enables the handset1100to support SIP protocols and register the subscriber with the SIP registrar server. The applications1106can also include a client1142that provides at least the capability of discovery, play and store of multimedia content, for example, music.

The handset1100, as indicated above related to the communications component1110, includes an indoor network radio transceiver1113(e.g., Wi-Fi transceiver). This function supports the indoor radio link, such as IEEE 802.11 (e.g., for a Multimode Handset or Device)1100. The handset1100can accommodate at least satellite radio services through a handset that can combine wireless voice and digital radio chipsets into a single handheld device.

Referring now toFIG. 12, illustrated is an example block diagram of an example computer1200operable to engage in a system architecture that facilitates wireless communications according to one or more embodiments described herein. The computer1200can provide networking and communication capabilities between a wired or wireless communication network and a server (e.g., Microsoft server) and/or communication device. In order to provide additional context for various aspects thereof,FIG. 12and the following discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment in which the various aspects of the innovation can be implemented to facilitate the establishment of a transaction between an entity and a third party. While the description above is in the general context of computer-executable instructions that can run on one or more computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the innovation also can be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

The techniques described herein can be applied to any device or set of devices (machines) capable of running programs and processes. It can be understood, therefore, that servers including physical and/or virtual machines, personal computers, laptops, handheld, portable and other computing devices and computing objects of all kinds including cell phones, tablet/slate computers, gaming/entertainment consoles and the like are contemplated for use in connection with various implementations including those exemplified herein. Accordingly, the general purpose computing mechanism described below with reference toFIG. 12is but one example of a computing device.

FIG. 12illustrates a block diagram of a computing system1200operable to execute the disclosed systems and methods in accordance with an embodiment. Computer1212, which can be, for example, part of the hardware of system1220, includes a processing unit1214, a system memory1216, and a system bus1218. System bus1218couples system components including, but not limited to, system memory1216to processing unit1214. Processing unit1214can be any of various available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multiprocessor architectures also can be employed as processing unit1214.

System bus1218can be any of several types of bus structure(s) including a memory bus or a memory controller, a peripheral bus or an external bus, and/or a local bus using any variety of available bus architectures including, but not limited to, Industrial Standard Architecture (ISA), Micro-Channel Architecture (MSA), Extended ISA (EISA), Intelligent Drive Electronics, VESA Local Bus (VLB), Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), Card Bus, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Advanced Graphics Port (AGP), Personal Computer Memory Card International Association bus (PCMCIA), Firewire (IEEE 1294), and Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI).

System memory1216can include volatile memory1220and nonvolatile memory1222. A basic input/output system (BIOS), containing routines to transfer information between elements within computer1212, such as during start-up, can be stored in nonvolatile memory1222. By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory1222can include ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or flash memory. Volatile memory1220includes RAM, which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as SRAM, dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), Rambus direct RAM (RDRAM), direct Rambus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and Rambus dynamic RAM (RDRAM).

Computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implemented in connection with any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured data, or unstructured data. Computer-readable storage media can include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, solid state drive (SSD) or other solid-state storage technology, compact disk read only memory (CD ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray disc or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices or other tangible and/or non-transitory media which can be used to store desired information. In this regard, the terms “tangible” or “non-transitory” herein as applied to storage, memory or computer-readable media, are to be understood to exclude only propagating transitory signals per se as modifiers and do not relinquish rights to all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media that are not only propagating transitory signals per se. In an aspect, tangible media can include non-transitory media wherein the term “non-transitory” herein as may be applied to storage, memory or computer-readable media, is to be understood to exclude only propagating transitory signals per se as a modifier and does not relinquish coverage of all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media that are not only propagating transitory signals per se. For the avoidance of doubt, the term “computer-readable storage device” is used and defined herein to exclude transitory media. Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local or remote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or other data retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect to the information stored by the medium.

It can be noted thatFIG. 12describes software that acts as an intermediary between users and computer resources described in suitable operating environment1200. Such software includes an operating system1228. Operating system1228, which can be stored on disk storage1224, acts to control and allocate resources of computer system1212. System applications1230take advantage of the management of resources by operating system1228through program modules1232and program data1234stored either in system memory1216or on disk storage1224. It is to be noted that the disclosed subject matter can be implemented with various operating systems or combinations of operating systems.

A user can enter commands or information into computer1212through input device(s)1236. As an example, a mobile device and/or portable device can include a user interface embodied in a touch sensitive display panel allowing a user to interact with computer1212. Input devices1236include, but are not limited to, a pointing device such as a mouse, trackball, stylus, touch pad, keyboard, microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, TV tuner card, digital camera, digital video camera, web camera, cell phone, smartphone, tablet computer, etc. These and other input devices connect to processing unit1214through system bus1218by way of interface port(s)1238. Interface port(s)1238include, for example, a serial port, a parallel port, a game port, a universal serial bus (USB), an infrared port, a Bluetooth port, an IP port, or a logical port associated with a wireless service, etc. Output device(s)1240and a move use some of the same type of ports as input device(s)1236.

Thus, for example, a USB port can be used to provide input to computer1212and to output information from computer1212to an output device1240. Output adapter1242is provided to illustrate that there are some output devices1240like monitors, speakers, and printers, among other output devices1240, which use special adapters. Output adapters1242include, by way of illustration and not limitation, video and sound cards that provide means of connection between output device1240and system bus1218. It should be noted that other devices and/or systems of devices provide both input and output capabilities such as remote computer(s)1244.

Computer1212can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as remote computer(s)1244. Remote computer(s)1244can be a personal computer, a server, a router, a network PC, cloud storage, cloud service, a workstation, a microprocessor based appliance, a peer device, or other common network node and the like, and typically includes many or all of the elements described relative to computer1212.

For purposes of brevity, only a memory storage device1246is illustrated with remote computer(s)1244. Remote computer(s)1244is logically connected to computer1212through a network interface1248and then physically connected by way of communication connection1250. Network interface1248encompasses wire and/or wireless communication networks such as local-area networks (LAN) and wide-area networks (WAN). LAN technologies include Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), Copper Distributed Data Interface (CDDI), Ethernet, Token Ring and the like. WAN technologies include, but are not limited to, point-to-point links, circuit-switching networks like Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDN) and variations thereon, packet switching networks, and Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL). As noted below, wireless technologies may be used in addition to or in place of the foregoing.

Communication connection(s)1250refer(s) to hardware/software employed to connect network interface1248to bus1218. While communication connection1250is shown for illustrative clarity inside computer1212, it can also be external to computer1212. The hardware/software for connection to network interface1248can include, for example, internal and external technologies such as modems, including regular telephone grade modems, cable modems and DSL modems, ISDN adapters, and Ethernet cards.

Moreover, terms like “user equipment (UE),” “mobile station,” “mobile,” subscriber station,” “subscriber equipment,” “access terminal,” “terminal,” “handset,” and similar terminology, refer to a wireless device utilized by a subscriber or user of a wireless communication service to receive or convey data, control, voice, video, sound, gaming, or substantially any data-stream or signaling-stream. The foregoing terms are utilized interchangeably in the subject specification and related drawings. Likewise, the terms “access point (AP),” “base station,” “NodeB,” “evolved Node B (eNodeB),” “home Node B (HNB),” “home access point (HAP),” “cell device,” “sector,” “cell,” and the like, are utilized interchangeably in the subject application, and refer to a wireless network component or appliance that serves and receives data, control, voice, video, sound, gaming, or substantially any data-stream or signaling-stream to and from a set of subscriber stations or provider enabled devices. Data and signaling streams can include packetized or frame-based flows.

Aspects, features, or advantages of the subject matter can be exploited in substantially any, or any, wired, broadcast, wireless telecommunication, radio technology or network, or combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of such technologies or networks include Geocast technology; broadcast technologies (e.g., sub-Hz, ELF, VLF, LF, MF, HF, VHF, UHF, SHF, THz broadcasts, etc.); Ethernet; X.25; powerline-type networking (e.g., PowerLine AV Ethernet, etc.); femto-cell technology; Wi-Fi; Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX); Enhanced General Packet Radio Service (Enhanced GPRS); Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP or 3G) Long Term Evolution (LTE); 3GPP Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) or 3GPP UMTS; Third Generation Partnership Project 2 (3GPP2) Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB); High Speed Packet Access (HSPA); High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA); High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA); GSM Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) Radio Access Network (RAN) or GERAN; UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN); or LTE Advanced.