Upgrade for US Network

U.S. Cellular has selected Lucent Technologies to provide equipment, software and professional services in the Chicago market. The multi-year agreement is valued at up to US$150 million. U.S. Cellular's network currently supports CDMA 1xRTT voice and data offerings. When the new equipment from Lucent is deployed, U.S. Cellular will have the opportunity and flexibility to offer next-generation mobile high-speed data and Voice over IP services, including 1xEV-DO capabilities. Lucent's base station equipment can be easily enhanced to support CDMA2000 1xEV-DO services.

"Our customers are looking for networks that provide fast and easy access to the same applications they use at home or in the office while away from their desk and out on the road," said Michael Irizzary, executive vice president and chief technology officer for U.S. Cellular. "As we work to transform our network to support next-generation services, Lucent's CDMA expertise will help us quickly offer these services, with quality, on a reliable network."

Lucent will upgrade existing Lucent base stations with CDMA2000 1X channel cards and software, as well as provide new Flexent Modular Cell base stations. In addition to the infrastructure equipment, Lucent Worldwide Services will provide engineering, installation and other professional services to U.S. Cellular as it continues to deploy advanced technology across its wireless network.

In December 2002, Lucent and U.S. Cellular announced an agreement for equipment to support U.S. Cellular's conversion to CDMA 1xRTT technology. That upgrade began in October 2002 and is scheduled for completion in 2004."

Posted to the site on 6th May 2004