A new GSM network solution designed to meet the three key requirements of African markets -- low-cost initial investment, fast network deployment and full GSM functionality -- was unveiled by Nortel Networks at the GSM Africa conference in Cape Town on November 26 and 27.
Known as PicoNode, the system is ideal for remote communities with low capacity requirements. Its modular design makes it easy for GSM operators to extend their telephony service offerings into rural areas or remote regions where wireline or even wireless coverage with traditional systems can be uneconomical.
PicoNode provides cost-effective, rapidly deployed solutions for communities such as small villages and towns where there is no wireless infrastructure. Being modular, it can also be optimised to serve large localised communities of subscribers.
Malcolm Bayes, Regional Director Africa, Nortel Networks, said the cost effectiveness of the PicoNode solution was the result of a fully integrated application combining radio and switching capabilities in a single, compact cabinet.
"The product is innovative and unique in that it combines a mobile switching center (MSC), base station controller (BSC) and base transceiver station (BTS) within a single enclosure about the size of a tower PC."
Installation is quick and easy, giving operators large coverage in minimal time. With its small scale approach the PicoNode greatly reduces the costs of deployment and expansion.
Bayes said Nortel Networks` PicoNode GSM Networks can be deployed over different geographical regions in one of several types of network configurations. It could be as an extension to an existing GSM Network, as means of increasing capacity for an in-building coverage for a factory or hotel, or as a means of offering non-contiguous coverage for a remote village or community.
The PicoNode allows operators to deliver services to specific, targeted subscriber communities and gives operators the ability to dramatically reduce ongoing transmission backhaul and maintenance. Through local switching of calls, PicoNode reduces backhaul requirements while offloading processing at the central switch.
"This system meets the difficult infrastructure requirements of the African market and overcomes barriers to profitability, which is a particularly critical factor in overall GSM network development in rural communities." said Bayes.
Nortel Networks works with customers worldwide to design, build, and deliver telephony and IP-optimized networks. Customers include public and private enterprises and institutions; Internet service providers; local, long-distance, cellular and PCS communications companies, cable television carriers, and utilities.
Nortel Networks` common shares are listed on the New York, Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and London stock exchanges. Nortel Networks had 1997 revenues of US$15.5 billion and Bay Networks, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nortel Networks, had revenues of US$2.4 billion during its most recent fiscal year. The combined company`s workforce totals approximately 80,000 employees worldwide.
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