T-Mobile USA has named its suppliers for its LTE network. The multi-year agreements with Ericsson and Nokia Siemens Networks will support T-Mobile’s USD 4 billion network evolution plan, including network modernization and deployment of LTE service in 2013. The suppliers will install Release 10-capable equipment at 37,000 cell sites across T-Mobile’s network, increasing signal quality and enhancing performance beginning in 2012. T-Mobile also expects to be the first carrier in North America to broadly deploy antenna integrated radios, enabling accelerated deployment and reduced site loading. T-Mobile also plans to launch HSPA+ service in the 1900 MHz band in a large number of markets by the end of the year. Network modernization trials have shown up to a 33 percent increase in HSPA+ data speeds as well as improved in-building coverage, the operator said. The HSPA+ network currently covers over 220 million people in 229 markets.
Ericsson said T-Mobile USA will deploy its AIR (Antenna Integrated Radio) technology, enabling improvement in existing coverage and a quick launch of LTE. Ericsson will install the radio, tower and switch room equipment, as well as provide consulting and systems integration and roll-out services. Ericsson will also provide turnkey services in the areas of installation, commissioning, integration and migration.
Nokia Siemens Networks will provide T-Mobile its Evolved Packet Core platform, including Flexi NS (Network Server) and Flexi NG (Network Gateway) as part of an upgrade of the GSM and 3G networks. The company will also provide for the LTE deployment its Single RAN Advanced platform based on its Flexi Multiradio 10 Base Station. The deployment will also include Nokia Siemens Networks’ NetAct multi technology Network Management System, a Nokia Siemens Networks SON and a separate, dedicated multi vendor Performance Manager.
