Qualcomm resigned to DTV delay

The biggest worry for Qualcomm is that that the distribution of digital converters won’t be complete by June 12, which may prompt Congress to extend the deadline once again. If that happens, Qualcomm may find itself with new allies. Verizon Wireless and AT&T have both said they would support any DTV delay up to June, but any further delay could cut into their own plans to deploy mobile broadband services over the spectrum.

Verizon Wireless plans to launch its first Long-Term Evolution (LTE) networks by year end and has already begun testing LTE technology with a host of vendors in the US. Verizon, which effectively has a nationwide 700 MHz license, has been able to conduct those trials in markets where there is no interference issues with local broadcasters. For instance, Verizon had Nortel build its trial network in Columbus, Ohio, because there was no broadcaster transmitting over VZW’s designated channels. But as Verizon seeks to build out a nationwide network with hundreds of base stations in individual markets, it can’t be hampered with interference issues.

AT&T also plans an LTE network at 700 MHz, though it’s on a later timeline. AT&T is planning to upgrade its 3G network to evolved high-speed packet access (E-HSPA or HSPA+) first, and won’t start its LTE deployments until 2010. Cox Communications also has announced plans to launch a wireless network in its cable territories this year, using the 700 MHz licenses it won at auction, but so far it’s remained quiet in the DTV delay debate.