[Montreal, CANADA] Ericsson
Canada and Microcell
Connexions have inked a multimillion dollar (Canadian) deal for
the supply of a new high-speed wireless data system based on General
Packet Radio Service (GPRS) technology.
Ericsson already claims more than 50 percent of the worldwide GPRS
orders and has installed 44 test systems with leading operators.
GPRS is a new technology that allows mobile networks to send packet-switched
data in the same way as over the Internet and other datacoms
networks.
All information is divided into packets. Unlike a circuit-switched
system, a GPRS connection will only use the network while data is
being sent, thus optimizing network efficiency. This allows GPRS to
make more dynamic and efficient use of radio frequencies.
The Ericsson and Microcell deal covers a complete GPRS system;
including software and hardware upgrades of the existing Microcell
GSM infrastructure and the deployment of newly developed IP-based GSN
nodes for the GPRS core network.
Ericsson’s GPRS system will allow Microcell to offer its customers
mobile Internet and other IP-based applications at speeds up to ten
times as fast as current mobile networks.
Ericsson provides complete communication solutions including Wireless
Systems, Mobile Phones, IP and Data Systems — including e-commerce, e-crm,
and Internet Multimedia — as well as Consulting Services.
It is also Canada’s sixth largest R&D investor. Its R&D Center
develops systems for multiple wireless standards as well as
technology for future 3rd generation telecommunication.
Microcell Connexions is the only Canadian wireless network to
exclusively offer unbundled and unbranded airtime and wireless
services to corporations and entrepreneurs who then brand and market
these offerings as their own.
It also partners with third-party developers and manufacturers to
enhance their wireless service and product offerings.
