GSM Network Upgrade for Cook Islands Sole Operator

LGC Wireless says it has completed the first phase deployment of its new UltraWAVE GSM Softswitch for Telecom Cook Islands. The new softswitch is upgrading the carrier's core wireless network to more efficient, IP-based technology in order to reduce costs and enable value-added services such as integrated SMS, voice mail, GPRS and prepaid calling.

The first phase of the deployment, which was accomplished on September 16, 2007, involved installation and commissioning of the call server (the core switching platform) as well as a total replacement of all third-party Prepaid, Voicemail and SMS services. The conversion of services included an overall expansion of the network's capacity from 8,000 to 15,000 subscribers, which enabled immediate network subscriber growth.

"LGC Wireless is delivering on its contract on time and on budget, allowing us to add new subscribers and to offer a broader mix of services," said Ngatama Aniterera, General Manager, Telecoms at Telecom Cook Islands. "Significantly, the cut-over from the old switch of our previous network to the new GSM UltraWAVE Softswitch was swift with minimal downtime."

Telecom Cook Islands (TCI) is the sole provider of telecommunications in the Cook Islands and is owned by Telecom New Zealand (60%) and the Cook Islands Government (40%).

The Cook Islands are a self-governing parliamentary democracy in free association with New Zealand. With over 90,000 visitors travelling to the islands in 2006, tourism is the country's number one industry, and the leading element of the economy, far ahead of offshore banking, pearls, marine and fruit exports.

Posted to the site on 15th October 2007