Ericsson Wins GSM Based FMC Contract in the UK

Ericsson has been selected as sole supplier to supply and operate a complete GSM mobile network for Cable&Wireless as it launches its new Fixed Mobile Convergence (FMC) services in the UK. As Cable&Wireless' exclusive managed services partner, Ericsson will also be responsible for running the network for five years.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will supply a complete core and radio-access network, based on small and low-power GSM base stations. The solution is designed to provide indoor fixed and mobile coverage for enterprise users, and allows for seamless roaming between the Cable&Wireless GSM solution and national roaming partners when moving outdoors. Network connectivity is provided by connecting the GSM base stations directly to existing enterprise data networks, using IP network solutions provided by Cable&Wireless.

Ericsson will also supply a service-layer network with solutions for service provisioning, SMS and voicemail to enable Cable&Wireless to launch complete FMC services to its customers.

The contract will allow Cable&Wireless to deploy new services rapidly and cost-effectively whilst optimising its existing infrastructure. Cable&Wireless has announced Tesco as its first corporate customer for its new FMC service. FMC will enable Tesco staff to use one mobile handset for all calls, switching between mobile and fixed line calls seamlessly.

No financial details were provided.

Cable&Wireless was among 12 UK-based companies that were awarded a license for new frequencies as a result a spectrum auction held in 2006. The company said at the time that it would use the limited spectrum for FMC services.

Posted to the site on 11th September 2008