US Network Launches CDMA2000 1X Network

The USA based Midwest Wireless has announced the commercial launch of the first phase of its CDMA2000 1X wireless network based on an infrastructure solution from Nortel Networks. This deployment spans 68 counties in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin. More than 50% of Midwest Wireless' total operational area is now enabled with CDMA2000 1X technology, constituting more than two-thirds of the population served. The remainder of Midwest Wireless' network is expected to be 1X-enabled by the end of 2003.

"As a regional provider, we're committed to bringing the very latest wireless services to the individuals who live and work in the Greater Midwest," said Dennis Miller, president and chief executive officer, Midwest Wireless. "We're excited to deploy this next generation network, which will open up a new world of wireless services to our customers and enhance their lives through expanded communication options."

Nortel Networks was originally selected by Midwest Wireless in September 2002 to supply CDMA2000 1X radio access and Internet Protocol (IP) core infrastructure equipment. Network deployments began in the fourth quarter of last year, and are expected to continue through 2003. The CDMA2000 1X deployment is part of a nine-year relationship between the two companies. Nortel Networks previously supplied TDMA network equipment to Midwest Wireless.

Products from Nortel Networks Univity Wireless Data Network portfolio deployed for Midwest Wireless include Univity CDMA Metro Cell radio base station (BTS), Univity CDMA Base Station Controller (BSC), and Univity CDMA Packet Data Serving Node (PDSN) equipment."

Posted to the site on 3rd June 2003