A contract to supply the world`s largest GSM for Railways (GSM-R) digital wireless telecommunications network has been awarded by Mannesmann Arcor to Nortel Dasa, the German joint venture of Nortel Networks and DaimlerChrysler Aerospace AG. Mannesmann Arcor will operate the network for Deutsche Bahn AG, Germany`s national railway operator. Fully interoperable with GSM-R networks in other countries, the Mannesmann Arcor network will provide higher capacity, better quality, simplified logistics and better overall service than existing analog radio systems at Deutsche Bahn. Nortel Networks offers an end-to-end solution and has a long history in the development of GSM-R technology. Its GSM-R product line will allow Deutsche Bahn to build a completely integrated railway control and logistics system while also supporting new services such as electronic payment and ticketing from mobile terminals.
Cesar Cesaratto, president of Nortel Networks Wireless Solutions EMEA, who was recently in South Africa for the formal opening of the Nortel Networks SA headquarters in Rivonia, said the company made a strategic decision a few years ago to become a global player in GSM-R.
"We have worked hard to develop this market," he said. "Given the size and importance of the German railway system, we expect this deal to help Nortel Networks assume a leadership role in the European GSM-R market."
Deutsche Bahn AG has been using separate analog radio systems for voice and data communications. These disparate systems will now be converged on a digital platform.
Nortel Dasa will supply a complete network infrastructure solution -- including radio base stations and switching equipment -- based on GSM-R standards. The Nortel Networks GSM-R solution works with existing public and private networks, enabling operators to offer virtual private networks and other specialized services. It also provides a smooth transition to GPRS (General Packet Radio Service).
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