TORONTO and HALIFAX – EastLink has selected Ericsson to build the backbone of its new mobile broadband network which is scheduled to launch next year.
The two companies confirmed Wednesday that Ericsson has signed a four-year agreement as the sole vendor for EastLink’s core and radio access networks, using HSPA+ and next generation technologies. Ericsson will deploy its multi-standard radio base station RBS 6000, circuit switched and packet networks including evolved packet core and operation support systems, and professional services.
The new network, currently under construction by EastLink, is being designed to accommodate consumer demand for high-speed data transmission to and from their hand-held devices. Speaking at the Rotary Club of Halifax Northwest, EastLink Wireless VP of engineering and operations, Steve Irvine, said that the new system will take advantage of technology that wasn’t available when mobile phones became commonplace.
“We’ve partnered with Ericsson because they are the world’s largest supplier of mobile infrastructure”, Irvine said during a preview of the network. “The multi-million dollar purchase, combined with the company’s existing fibre optic infrastructure, will give EastLink customers access to the best communications and entertainment services available”.
Irvine added that once the wireless network officially launches, EastLink will be able to offer the region’s only quad-play service bundle that includes wireless, video, Internet and telephone.
