Cannes, France, 05 Dec 2006
Motorola, Inc today announces that it has been selected by BT to supply Mesh WiFi network infrastructure and services for six of BT's Wireless City initiatives across the UK.
The contract will see Motorola design, deploy and manage city-wide WiFi networks with BT in, for example, Birmingham and Newcastle.
The Mesh WiFi networks will deliver wireless broadband for use by public services, businesses and citizens in each of the cities. The networks are designed to enable different user experiences including:
* Extension of BT Openzone hotspots to enable wireless Web access and e-mail.
* Contiguous WiFi coverage to enable real-time applications using for example, BT Fusion dual mode devices.
* Virtual private network (VPN) services for enterprise customers and to e-enable local authority workforces.
* Wireless closed circuit television (CCTV) to aid community safety and security.
Dave Hughes, Director, BT Wireless Broadband, said: "We are delighted to announce we are working with Motorola in delivering six of the planned 12 Wireless Cities across the UK. Our Wireless City networks will ensure customers are connected at all times and will also provide access to valuable applications and services, such as knowing where to park, access to tourist information and public services.
"The Wireless City initiatives offer wide area wireless broadband access across metropolitan areas, enabling people to use the network on a range of devices for entertainment, education and communication, such as e-mail, video and voice calls, even when they're on the move," continued Hughes.
BT's wireless cities solution includes best of breed technology from Motorola and other suppliers. Motorola will supply solutions from its MOTOwi4 wireless broadband portfolio, which will be deployed across the cities on existing sites such as lampposts. The Motorola solution allows data to be backhauled wirelessly helping to save the cost, time and disruption involved with building a fixed network. The networks will also be secure and robust as they will be Mesh-enabled, which allows the network to "self heal" should individual access points fail by rerouting traffic.
Jose Figueroa, corporate vice-president and general manager, Motorola Networks and Enterprise EMEA, said: "Motorola is pioneering wireless broadband development and we are excited to join BT in its drive to wirelessly enable BT Wireless Cities with Mesh WiFi networks. The Wireless City initiative will deliver what consumers, business and city authorities really want: a broadband service that's consistent in the home, the office and now outside in open spaces around the city."
Share