Alcatel enables 3G services for Wave Telecom

July 8, 2004

Alcatel announced that it has enabled Wave Telecom, a wholly owned subsidiary of Jersey Telecom Group, to launch 3G multimedia services, like videophony, throughout the Channel Island of Guernsey. Alcatel has supplied and deployed its end-to-end GSM/GPRS and 3G/UMTS network solution.

Launched in December, 2002, Wave Telecom is the only mobile operator to apply for and receive a 3G license from Guernsey's Office of Utility Regulation. Wave Telecom's license also covers the provision of GSM/GPRS and 3G/UMTS services for the surrounding Channel Islands of Alderney and Sark.

The Wave Telecom network infrastructure is using the end-to-end Alcatel's field-proven Evolium UMTS solution based on the successful 3G products from Evolium SAS, Alcatel's joint venture with Fujitsu. Based on Alcatel multi-standard Evolium infrastructure, Wave Telecom network deployment started in May 2003.

The new network, which includes UMTS, point to point SDH microwave links and point to multi-point LMDS solutions provided by Alcatel across the island of Guernsey, will provide Wave Telecom with the critical ability to offer differentiated advanced services to its subscribers.

Commenting on the launch, Tim Ringsdore, managing director of Wave Telecom said "Guernsey mobile users will now benefit from an array of new 3G services including mobile video solutions. Wave Telecom looks forward to working with Alcatel at the forefront of the 3G revolution".

Marc Rouanne, chief operating officer of Alcatel's mobile communications activities, said "We have worked closely over the last few years to get to this stage. It's a strong endorsement of the Evolium solution that it can meet the end to end requirements of our customers in this way, migrating them from 2G to 3G as a smooth network upgrade while protecting their initial investments".