Telstra goes live with world's first combined core network for 2G/3G/4G
- Telstra's triple-access Evolved Packet Core now in commercial service
- Allows for smooth introduction of new IP-based services and seamless handover of 2G, 3G and 4G traffic
- Consumers benefit from improved mobile broadband services
Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) and Telstra have together created a world first by enabling Telstra to operate a combined core network for its 2G, 3G and 4G traffic.
Ericsson's Evolved Packet Core (EPC) enables the mobile broadband traffic carried in Telstra GSM, WCDMA/HSPA and LTE access networks to be seamlessly handled by the same core network nodes, resulting in an improved mobile broadband experience for consumers.
To date, Ericsson has signed 30 commercial EPC contracts. The majority of the network operators that signed these contracts have deployed an EPC network as an overlay upon their existing packet core networks. EPC's validated triple-access functionality through software upgrades allows for smooth introduction of new IP-based services to existing networks, protecting earlier investments.
Mike Wright, Telstra's Executive Director of Network and Access Technologies, says: "Through implementing the Evolved Packet Core, we can smoothly integrate and transition 2G, 3G and 4G traffic seamlessly for our customers. This is the complete network solution that we envisioned over 5 years ago: a common and efficient core network supporting traffic from any source across our evolving GSM, WCDMA and LTE access networks.
Sam Saba, Head of Ericsson Australia, says: "Telstra has successfully implemented the latest technology and we see many operators following their launch closely. The triple-access Evolved Packet Core enables cost-efficient operations and increased revenues as it greatly facilitates network planning and maintenance and allows for smooth introduction of new IP-based services."
The Telstra solution also includes the world's first triple-access SGSN-MME pool. Ericsson has an extensive pool track record of world firsts, dating back to 2005 when the 2G pool was launched. Telstra played a pioneering role by launching the world's first 3G pool, as well as a dual-access 2G/3G pool in 2007. Now, Telstra has made the next technology breakthrough by evolving its pool solution to also include its LTE network.
Notes to editors:
Telstra partners with Ericsson to launch 4G/LTE in Australia (Feb. 2011)
Ericsson's launch of the Evolved Packet Core network in 2009
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Ericsson is the world's leading provider of technology and services to telecom operators. Ericsson is the leader in 2G, 3G and 4G mobile technologies, and provides support for networks with over 2 billion subscribers and has the leading position in managed services. The company's portfolio comprises mobile and fixed network infrastructure, telecom services, software, broadband and multimedia solutions for operators, enterprises and the media industry. The Sony Ericsson and ST-Ericsson joint ventures provide consumers with feature-rich personal mobile devices.
Ericsson is advancing its vision of being the "prime driver in an all-communicating world" through innovation, technology, and sustainable business solutions. Working in 180 countries, more than 90,000 employees generated revenue of SEK 203.3 billion (USD 28.2 billion) in 2010. Founded in 1876 with the headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, Ericsson is listed on NASDAQ OMX, Stockholm and NASDAQ New York.
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