CSL’s Next G network, built by ZTE, was the world’s first HSPA+ network based on Software Defined Radio (SDR) technology. The carrier launched a commercial trial of LTE in November 2009, and already has 40 cell sites where LTE is operational.
“We are glad to be awarded by GTB in the second consecutive year for innovation on our Next G™ network. This award also recognises our partnership with ZTE and joint efforts that we have been working closely to enable the people of Hong Kong to be one of the first in the world to enjoy LTE services. This will deliver on our promise to our customers of a true mobile broadband service that enables advanced corporate applications for businesses and an enhanced mobile multimedia experience for consumers,” according to Tarek Robbiati, Group Managing Director of Telstra International.
CSL’s network supports UMTS/LTE dual-mode services. With ZTE’s industry leading SDR technology the operator can upgrade the network with software only, enabling CSL to easily migrate from HSPA+ to LTE according to its growth requirements across Hong Kong. Traditionally, the roll-out of a next generation network would require an operator to build and run two networks. The flexibility of SDR technology reduces significantly the difficulties of upgrading to a next-gen technology.
“We have to think about the future – between 10 and 20 per cent of users will put heavy demands on the network, so carriers will need to invest in LTE to meet this demand. CSL is leading the industry with its offering and we are proud to jointly receive this award,” added Zhang Jianguo, Vice President of ZTE UMTS/LTE product.
The GTB Innovation Awards are now in their fourth year and are designed to honour innovative projects involving telecoms operators and service providers around the world, in association with their vendors and suppliers. The awards ceremony took place at the London Park Lane Sheraton Hotel on the evening of June 7th.
About ZTE
ZTE is a leading global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions. It has the widest and most complete product range in the world – covering virtually every sector of the wireline, wireless, service and terminals markets. The company delivers innovative, custom-made products and services to over 500 operators in more than 140 countries, helping them to achieve continued revenue growth and to shape the future of the world’s communications. ZTE commits around 10% of its annual turnover to research and development and takes a leading role in a wide range of international bodies developing emerging telecoms standards. ZTE leads China’s 3G industry with about 30% share of the total 3G equipment market in 2008. A company with sound corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ZTE is a member of the UN Global Compact that strictly adheres to the Ten Principles of the Global Compact in developing and carrying out CSR programs. ZTE is China’s only listed telecoms manufacturer, with shares publicly traded on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ). For more information, please visit www.zte.com.cn.