Andrew to install 3G UMTS network in Metro system

November 30, 2004

Andrew Corporation will install the world's first 3G wireless network of its kind for use in a public transportation system under a two-year contract to upgrade the Hong Kong mass transit railway's underground communications network.

The distributed communications system that Andrew is installing into the MTR, Hong Kong's metro system, will enable passengers with mobile wireless devices to enjoy access to advanced multimedia and information services, such as gaming and real-time streaming video, in addition to traditional voice calling and text messaging services. This 3G ready network will be the first in a public transportation system based on the UMTS standard.

"Andrew is proud of its role in helping the MTR become the first mass transit system to provide UMTS-based mobile communications services to its passengers," said Bob Hudzik, president, Wireless Innovations Group, Andrew Corporation. "MTR passengers can pass time by surfing the Internet or watching streaming video while business people can take part in video phone calls and receive high-volume emails. Passengers will benefit from Andrew's deep experience in working with transit systems around the world."

Andrew's 3G experts engineered the Hong Kong system to address the unique requirements of a 3G network's high frequency ranges. Andrew's design will counteract signal losses and provide better coverage throughout the Metro through use of high-performance tuned radiating cables, large diameter feeder cables, new and relocated antennas at critical signal sites, new amplifiers and reconfigured transmission paths. The Andrew system will encompass all underground stations and tunnels in five MTR lines and the Airport Express. Completion of the entire project including maintenance is expected in 2006.

The equipment Andrew will supply, install, test, and commission includes:

-- 3G-compliant radio frequency and optical amplifiers

-- Node M43 repeaters

-- EOCell RF-over-fiber system

-- RCT7-CPUS series tuned RADIAX radiating cable

-- HELIAX foam coaxial cable, connectors and accessories

-- 3G/2G crossband combiner

-- 3G combiners and

-- Splitters and couplers

The new 3G network continues Andrew's work with the MTR. In 1994, Andrew installed the 2LCX integrated radio network to provide GSM, CDMA, and TDMA services. Andrew also installed the paging facilities system in 1994 and has maintained both systems since then.