Ericsson to digitize Sri Lanka network with TDMA

Ericsson to digitize Sri Lanka network with TDMA Ericsson has signed a contract with operator Mobitel to digitize the nationwide AMPS wireless network in Sri Lanka. The upgrade contract is valued at USD 20 million (SEK 160 million). Currently there are 60,000 subscribers in Mobitel's AMPS network and they will all be migrated to the digital network during first quarter 1999. The selection of the TDMA (IS-136) technology was based on the smooth and cost-effective digital migration capability; the versatility of the network for customization of services and the future-proof platform that TDMA provides for third-generation wireless services. Mobitel is a consortium with Australia-based Telstra owning 60% and Sri Lanka Telecom 40%. There are over 90 million subscribers using TDMA/AMPS networks in over 100 countries worldwide. Approximately 17 million of these subscribers are already using TDMA (IS-136) digital services. TDMA (IS-136) already delivers over 85% of the IMT-2000 functionality and is being further enhanced to deliver all IMT-2000 capabilities in the existing 800 and 1900 MHz frequency bands and in the new 2 GHz band. Ericsson is the leading provider in the new telecoms world, with communications solutions that combine telecom and datacom technologies with the freedom of mobility for the user. With more than 100,000 employees in 140 countries, Ericsson simplifies communications for its customers - network operators, service providers, enterprises and consumers - the world over. Please visit Ericsson's Press Room at: http://www.ericsson.se/pressroom FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT Dominique Jodoin, Vice President Sales & Market Operations Ericsson Radio Systems, Cellular Systems - American Standards Phone: +46 8 757 2311 Johan Adler, General Manager Marketing, Ericsson Sri Lanka Phone: +94 1 82 8431 Johan Wiklund, Press Relations Manager, Ericsson Mobile Systems Phone: +46 70 560 0134; E-mail: johan.wiklund@era.ericsson.se