Ericsson has been selected by UK-based operator O2 to roll out its new LTE-compatible core 4G network.
According to Ericsson, the core network will utilise RBS 6000 multi-standard radio base stations for half of the O2 radio network in Britain, as well as Ericsson’s Evolved Packet Core (EPC) the core network for the LTE system across all of O2’s new 4G network.
The core network is also to include Ericsson’s Evolved Packet Gateway on the SSR 8000 Smart Services Router family and SGSN-MME on the Ericsson Blade System.
Once deployed, the core network will support 2G, 3G and 4G, providing O2 with the ability to manage data traffic growth and expand network coverage. The agreement with O2 also includes customer support services.
“This network transformation will put us in a great position for a seamless launch of 4G services this year” said Andrew Conway, head of mobile access for O2. “The outcome of the recent spectrum auction allows us to ensure the widest and deepest possible reach for new services and will see O2’s 4G network provide indoor coverage to 98% of the UK population.”
Ericsson’s RBS 6000 family of radio base stations supports a cost-effective deployment of new, high-speed mobile broadband services while minimizing environmental impact, the company said.
To date, Ericsson said it had now signed 130 LTE/EPC contracts in 51 countries.