Alcatel-Lucent (
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(Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) and HSDPA (High-Speed Downlink Packet Access) network in the Caribbean.
The launch of the new network is expected to increase the capacity of SETAR’s network and enable it to offer its customers and visitors to Aruba a range of next-generation services, including advanced multimedia, mobile broadband. In addition, also help SETAR provide converged services, such as video-on-demand, video call, mobile TV and high-speed mobile Internet access.
As per the September 2006 agreement, the deployment is expected to cover large geographical areas while offering high bit rates, low latency and full mobility.
Roland Croes, CEO at SETAR NV, stated that Alcatel-Lucent’s advanced wireless solution is helping his company simplify network operation, reduce expenses. He also believed that it will enable his company to increase revenue by making useful new mobile services available to every citizen in Aruba.
“Alcatel-Lucent is a proven market leader in wireless solutions and has been a reliable partner as we have been expanding our business. They possess the right combination of products, services and support to help us meet our customers’ demands for advanced services,” Croes added in a press statement.
As per the frame agreement between both the two companies, Alcatel-Lucent has provided SETAR with its radio networking solution including base stations, radio network and base station
controllers (RNC/BSC), wireless network management system solutions and engineering tools. In addition, Alcatel-Lucent was also responsible for network design and complete network deployment, including network integration and maintenance services.
“Throughout our long-standing partnership with SETAR, one of the most innovative and advanced service providers in the region, we have supported their business in a number of ways, providing switching, Optical, DSL and ATM
solutions, as well as a CDMA/EVDO network that enables roaming service with North American operators, in addition to GSM and WiFi (
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Alert) networks,” commented Olivier Picard, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s activities for Europe and South.
Picard also said that his company is committed to supporting SETAR “on its journey to build nationwide 3G
UMTS/HSPA coverage, opening new and exciting opportunities for consumers.”
According to Picard, Alcatel-Lucent’s 3G UMTS/HSPA solution provides cost-efficient coverage because of the improved radio wave propagation making it easier to provide low-cost mobile broadband services in rural areas, and also improved indoor coverage in urban areas.
Alcatel-Lucent has reportedly deployed commercial 3G (UMTS/HSPA and CDMA2000) systems for more than 70 operators worldwide.
Anshu Shrivastava is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To see more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.
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