CDMA Coverage Expands in Chile

Chile's Smartcom is expanding its 3G network to boost capacity and meet growing nationwide demand for advanced data services using CDMA2000 1X kit from Nortel. Smartcom has been operating a CDMA 1X network in Santiago based on Nortel solutions since 2002. With the expansion, Smartcom will be able to offer 1X based services to subscribers throughout Chile.

"We are continuously working to bring our subscribers the best in high-speed mobile services," said Jaime Gros, general manager, Smartcom. "Smartcom first launched 1xRTT in Santiago with Nortel technology back in 2002, and last year we launched 1xEV-DO broadband wireless services in the capital with Nortel technology. Our successful deployments with Nortel have kept us at the forefront of wireless services in Chile and our experience in broadband wireless network deployments has enabled us to provide current and potential customers with one of the most extensive arrays of broadband mobile services available today in Chile and in the world!"

Nortel is installing both core and access equipment -- including switching platforms, radio base stations and base station controllers -- to upgrade Smartcom's existing nationwide CDMA2000 network to a CDMA 1X infrastructure. The first phase of the project, focused on the south of Chile, has already been completed. Smartcom expects to start offering new services there immediately, in time for the influx of visitors during Chile's summer months. The entire project is expected to be completed by the end of 2005.

Nortel has been working with Smartcom since 2001, when the two companies began deployment of a CDMA 1X network in Santiago."

Posted to the site on 12th January 2005