Grintek will implement a synchronisation update to the MTN Group's Mobile Switch Centre (MSC), Base Station Controller (BSC) and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) network.
The upgrade, using Symmetricom's synchronisation technology, is to be rolled out throughout SA at 21 locations. The value of the deal, including extended warranty and support for five years, is in excess of R6 million.
Synchronisation is required to minimise service interruption and ensure all network elements perform at peak efficiency. Quality synchronisation is key for the smooth transmission of voice, video and data.
"The African telecoms environment faces challenges such as geographic expanses, population density, and disparity in infrastructure. Our focus is on providing a high quality of experience for our business and residential customers by increasing capacity where needed and not just extending geographic coverage," said Karel Pienaar, managing director of MTN SA.
"Investing in our MSC, BSC and ATM sync network infrastructure is a critical step towards achieving excellence in our operations."
"Grintek Telecom, Symmetricom's value-added reseller for the African market, is offering a turnkey solution including network design, project management, implementation and support for the MTN infrastructure upgrade," said Delio Senatore for Grintek Telecom.
"MTN has demonstrated its huge commitment to providing its customers quality of service improvement by deploying next-generation synchronisation supply units to eliminate network and service failures. Symmetricom's Synchronisation Supply Unit (Suss) will distribute the precise frequency and time for equipment in MTN's MSC and BSC network, guaranteeing quality synchronisation to seamlessly connect voice and data. TimePictra management software will allow remote network visibility and control. The combined product solution will minimise network downtime," Senatore explains.
Share
Launched in 1994, the MTN Group celebrates 10 years as a leading provider of cellular and communications services in Africa and is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange South Africa under the share code "MTN". The group encompasses MTN South Africa, MTN International and its Strategic Investments division which hosts Orbicom, Airborn and MTN Network Solutions.
As at end 31 March 2004, the MTN Group recorded almost ten million subscribers across the continent where it provides cellular, satellite and Internet access services to 14 African countries. The group has invested in six GSM cellular networks in Africa, including SA, Swaziland, Rwanda, Uganda, Cameroon and Nigeria. For more information, please visit www.mtn.co.za.
Grintek Telecom
Grintek Telecom, a division of JSE-listed Grintek Ltd, is one of SA's leading empowerment ICT solutions and integration companies. Grintek Telecom provides tailored and innovative ICT solutions, from initial project and business requirement consulting, through to implementation, integration and ongoing support. www.grintek.com
Symmetricom Incorporated
Symmetricom is the world's leading supplier of synchronisation and timing solutions to telecom, government and industry. Our products include wireline and wireless network synchronisation, hydrogen masers, cesium and rubidium clocks, time authentication systems as well as G.shdsl broadband equipment. The company is based in San Jose, California, with offices worldwide. For more information, visit www.symmetricom.com.
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