REGINA – SaskTel and the University of Regina have teamed up to be the first in Canada to deploy a new wireless technology known in the industry as HetNet (Heterogeneous Networks).
Manufactured by Huawei Technologies, the technology is now installed in the University’s Kinesiology building and Riddell Centre. The HetNet architecture consists of a variety of technologies and frequencies in various locations that work together to deliver a high quality user experience. To achieve this, SaskTel utilized “small cell” LTE products known as Microcell and Lampsite, also manufactured by Huawei, to provide deep penetration, indoor, high capacity LTE coverage speeds of up to 150 Mbps.
Although small cell products have already been commercially deployed in other countries around the world, this is the first successful commercial deployment of the Huawei Lampsite product in Canada, reads the news release.
“This technology is the first of its kind in Canada and is being deployed to meet increasing demand for robust and reliable wireless service at the University of Regina,” said SaskTel president and CEO Ron Styles, shown at the podium, centre. “By working with the University of Regina to implement the HetNet technology we are able to demonstrate both our organizations’ commitment to being future focused.”
SaskTel added that graduate students in the University’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science worked together with SaskTel employees throughout the entire process, from the design and implementation to the ongoing optimization and support stage, which offered them invaluable experience with cutting-edge network infrastructure.
“The University is committed to working with community partners to provide our students with experiential learning opportunities, and this work is a wonderful example of how that commitment can benefit everyone involved,” added University of Regina president and vice-chancellor Dr. Vianne Timmons. “Partnering with industry experts has provided a tremendous learning opportunity for our engineering students, benefited our entire campus by enhancing our wireless technology infrastructure, and provided SaskTel with the opportunity to work with the next generation of technological innovators in our province.”
