Focused on providing value that is sustainable into the future, Ericsson's CDMA2000 1X solution, based on true 3G platforms, has been designed to provide operators like Starcomms with investment protection through an easy, cost effective migration path to CDMA 1xEV-DO (Evolution Data Only) and 1xEV-DV (Data and Voice).  Ericsson's CDMA2000 1X products provide a highly scalable solution for voice and high-speed packet data services that enable fast time to market and a quick return on investment.

"We are pleased to extend our relationship with Starcomms and assist them in rolling out their CDMA2000 1X network," says Åke Persson, President of Ericsson Mobile CDMA Systems. "Ericsson offers one of the most cost-effective, powerful CDMA2000 solutions in the industry, facilitating increased revenue and lowered expenses for operators such as Starcomms."

"As we continue to expand our network and bring advanced voice and data services to customers throughout Nigeria, it is important for us to partner with a leading vendor like Ericsson," said Dirk Smet, CEO of Starcomms. "The high capacity of our CDMA2000 network and cost-effective solution will ensure our existing and future customers premium quality services at competitive rates."

Phase I deployment has already been completed and Phase II will begin immediately with an expected commercial launch during Q2 2003. Ericsson deployed its industry leading cdmaOne solution with Starcomms in 2002 and this new contract will provide Starcomms with a simple, cost-effective upgrade to CDMA2000.

"Starcomms' roll-out of CDMA2000 services will position them as one of the most technologically advanced operators on the continent," said Jan Embro, VP and General Manager of Ericsson in Southern Africa. "Starcomms' first-to-market CDMA2000 1X services will give them a clear competitive edge in the local market place."

The contract for Ericsson's total CDMA2000 solution includes the following equipment and services: 1900 MHz compact Radio Base Stations 1127; Base Station Controllers 1120; Packet Core Network; Mobile Switching Centers; Home Location Registers; a suite of applications such as Pre-paid, Short Message Service (SMS) and Voice Mail Service (VMS); and a full portfolio of services including training and network rollout.

 

 

James Borup, Ericsson Corporate Communications, External Relations

Phone: +46 70 590 9261; E-mail: james.borup@lme.ericsson.se

Charlotte Rubin, Public Relations Manager, Ericsson Mobile Systems CDMA

Phone: +1 858 332 6589; E-mail: charlotte.rubin@ericsson.com

 

Ericsson's total CDMA2000 solution, which includes infrastructure, applications, devices, services and proven market expertise, is optimized for delivering advanced data solutions. Developed by the industry's premier CDMA experts, Ericsson's true 3G CDMA2000 solution offers operators unique performance and cost-saving advantages by leveraging the full strength of Ericsson's expertise in wireless, IP/datacom and Mobile Internet technologies. Ericsson's CDMA2000 solution, based on 3G platforms, innovative product design and open standards, provides the flexibility operators need to succeed in an always-evolving wireless market.

Nigeria's most advanced digital wireless service brings to you a host of telecom products and services - digital wireless phone service, fax transmission and Handy Phone Service. Using the latest technology in the field of telecommunications - CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), Starcomms is committed to provide the people of Nigeria a never before communication experience. www.starcomms.com