3G Network Processor

In 2006, NEC selected the Agere Systems APP300 series network processor-based platform offerings for use in NEC's third-generation wireless network equipment. NEC used associated software, reference designs, and development platforms in 3G infrastructure equipment called 3G Node B. The platform featured flexible classification, traffic management for complex IP protocol processing including IPV4 and IPV6 support, and robust IP Quality of Service.

3G Node B

The Node B is a term used in 3G networks to denote the base station, which is the device that connects mobile users to the network. In the context of UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), a 3G standard, Node B is equivalent to the base transceiver station (BTS) in GSM networks. Node B's primary functions include the transmission and reception of radio signals to and from mobile devices, modulation and demodulation of signals, and some error handling. It connects to the Radio Network Controller (RNC) which oversees the resources and transmission of data across the Node Bs. Together, the RNC and the Node B form the UMTS Radio Access Network (UTRAN), which is responsible for handling and routing calls and data traffic.