The 3G agreement with Far EasTone comprises a complete 3G system including WCDMA radio access network, core network and a wide portfolio of comprehensive professional services for Yuan-Ze Telecommunications, subsidiary of Far EasTone. Multi-vendor terminal verification services for 3G handsets are also included.

The expansion of the WCDMA system will start immediately and will be managed by Ericsson on a turnkey basis. Ericsson's super compact RBS 3104 and RBS 3203 base stations will be deployed. The small footprint and the minimal volume significantly reduce site costs for the operator.

"The partnership between Far EasTone and Ericsson was proven successful in the initial network rollout. Far EasTone was the first WCDMA operator to demonstrate a video call and the first to receive the 'Qualification Certificate' from the Director General Telecom," says Jan Nilsson, president of Far EasTone. "Therefore, it is a natural step to continue the partnership to ensure a cost efficient and smooth expansion. It is definitely a strength for Far EasTone only having to deal with one network vendor when integrating GSM, GPRS and WCDMA."  

"After performance proven from earlier implementation, we are selected again as sole supplier for WCDMA," said Jan Signell, president of Ericsson Taiwan. "We are delighted to continue this partnership with Far EasTone and the chance to also extend our services to KGT subscribers after KGT's merger with Far EasTone. I am sure that Far EasTone with its strong focus on innovation and Ericsson with its technology leadership will be a winning combination in the advanced Taiwanese mobile multi-media market."

The WCDMA expansion contract with Far EasTone and Yuan-Ze Telecommunications further confirms Ericsson's position as the world's leading supplier of 3G mobile systems. Ericsson has been named as vendor in 45 out of 85 publicly announced WCDMA agreements to date and has a global market share of 40 per cent.