Teams with Ericsson to upgrade its 3G networks to offer 42Mbps peak speeds using dual carrier technology
SingTel has become the first operator to launch commercial 4G LTE services in Singapore.
The SingTel 4G LTE network is deployed on both the 1.8GHz and 2.6GHz frequency bands with 80% coverage expected by the end of this year, and full island-wide coverage by early 2013.
SingTel will also deploy heterogeneous network solutions, including small cells designed to cater for high traffic areas.
To provide a better mobile data experience across networks, SingTel's 3G network has been upgraded to peak rates of 42Mbps, using Dual Carrier technology (DC-HSPA), with the help of Ericsson. This gives SingTel the edge to support its range of new 4G LTE phones now in the market.
Yuen Kuan Moon, CEO consumer Singapore at SingTel, said: 'With the introduction of LTE-capable smartphones and tablets, meeting consumer demands for faster services and better performance is critical. We have been working hard on the rollout of our network with Ericsson.'
In Singapore, mobile penetration currently exceeds 150% and, according to a recent Ericsson ConsumerLab study, Singaporeans are ranked number one for smartphone ownership (74% penetration) and second for tablet ownership (31% penetration) globally. All of this is fuelling mobile data traffic growth in the city state, prompting SingTel's decision to launch a 4G LTE network.
Ericsson's relationship with SingTel began with the delivery of the operator's existing 2G networks. Ericsson played an important role in transforming SingTel's current 2G and 3G network into a multi-standard network with 4G LTE capability through a full turnkey project that includes installation, commissioning and radio optimisation services.
Nicholas Seow, president and country manager for Singapore and Brunei at Ericsson, remarked: 'Partnering with a carrier such as SingTel is of key importance to Ericsson as SingTel is one of the most advanced carriers in the region. I'm delighted with SingTel's continued trust in us as key supplier, and I believe this collaboration shows how Ericsson can help operators to successfully execute large and demanding projects. This reaffirms our leadership in the 4G LTE market and extends our long standing relationship with SingTel, which dates back to 2003.'
Ericsson's solution includes the multi-standard RBS 6000 and Evolved Packet Core (EPC) with Evolved Packet Gateway (EPG) based on SSR 8000 Smart Services Router and SGSN-MME, together with self-organising networks (SON) features to speed up deployment, and network management with Ericsson's Operation Support System for Radio & Core (OSS RC).
The network is already positioned for the next generation of mobile broadband, as it is easily upgradeable via software to support LTE-Advanced.
Ericsson has now signed 88 LTE EPC contracts in 38 countries on five continents.
