HSDPA

High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) is an enhancement of the UMTS radio-interface to make higher data rates possible. HSDPA introduces a high speed downlink shared channel (HS-DSCH). This high speed channel is shared among the users. The "theoretical" peak data rate is in the order of 14 Mbps. HSDPA provides average data throughput speeds of 550-1100 kbps to the user. The delay within the network (latency) is also lower.

HSDPA can be implemented in the standard 5 MHz channels available for UMTS. HSDPA requires a software and hardware modification of the base stations (Node B) as well as a software upgrade of the Radio Network controller (RNC). The user will require a new terminal.