Bringing 3G capability to the mass market – Nokia launches a complete TDMA-EDGE data solution

Today Nokia introduces its end-to-end system solution for TDMA-EDGE networks. The solution includes the GPRS core, Base Station Subsystem (BSS), end-user service creation platforms as well as a vast array services to plan, deploy and manage TDMA-EDGE networks including systems integration.

Based on open industry standards, the Nokia TDMA-EDGE System builds wide-area radio access on top of an evolved GPRS core, providing a complete data network solution for mobile network operators in North, Central and South America. EDGE is a true 3G technology, which will enable network operators to provide a full range of multimedia applications and services for mass market.

Nokia TDMA-EDGE solution provides TDMA/IS-136 operators to lay the ground for future 3rd generation networks by maximising investments already made. An additional benefit is that the network can be designed to support unlimited IP traffic capacity from the very beginning.

TDMA operators will evolve to a 3G service offering, utilising EDGE and GPRS. The common EDGE air interface will enable global roaming between GSM and TDMA networks, which brings clear benefits to operators and mobile subscribers.

Nokia's base station subsystem for TDMA-EDGE networks includes the Nokia UltraSiteTM EDGE Base Station for macrocellular capacity and coverage, the Nokia MetroSiteTM EDGE Base Station for microcellular voice and data capacity, a Base Station Controller (BSC), the Nokia NetAct Framework for network and service management, planning tools, services and site solutions.

The Nokia UltraSiteTM EDGE Base Station consists of both indoor and outdoor base stations. Nokia UltraSiteTM offers a cost-efficient growth path from EDGE to WCDMA, since the same cabinet can house both EDGE and WCDMA transceivers. The Nokia MetroSiteTM EDGE Base Station is small and lightweight with an unobtrusive design for installation in a variety of environments and it also has a WCDMA variant. Nokia also offers a complete site solution including power systems, batteries, antenna systems and optional support cabinet.

As a complete system supplier, Nokia offers comprehensive service solutions to assist operators with planning, deploying, managing and enhancing a TDMA-EDGE radio network. Furthermore, the Nokia network and service management solution contributes to faster network rollout and lower costs through rapid planning and implementation of network coverage, reduced staffing needs and manual input, and fewer site visits. This is particularly effective when combined with the Nokia TotemTM Suite Network Planning System.

Nokia further simplifies the evolution from today's TDMA and GSM networks by implementing the new radio interface on top of existing core technologies, with only minor modifications in the switching functionality. In this way, end-users benefit from high quality of service with Internet Protocol (IP) packet data networking, while operators gain full advantage of GPRS technology.

Nokia is paving the way to the mobile information society with its innovative products and solutions. The company is the leading mobile phone supplier and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks and related services, as well as multimedia terminals. In 1999, Nokia's net sales totalled EUR 19.8 billion (USD 19.9 billion). Headquartered in Finland, Nokia is listed on the New York (NOK), Helsinki, Stockholm, London, Frankfurt and Paris stock exchanges and employs more than 56,000 people.

Further information:

Communications Department, Nokia Networks
Tel. (Int.) + 358 9 5113 8193
Fax (Int.) + 358 9 5113 8199
Email nokia.networks@nokia.com
www.nokia.com