From:TheBahamasWeekly.com
Major Telecommunications Milestone for BTC
By Jerome Sawyer, BTC
Oct 26, 2013 - 12:24:07 PM
Nassau, Bahamas -
BTC’s cellular customers on New Providence are one step closer to
enjoying super-fast Long Term Evolution (LTE) this Christmas as a result
of the very first LTE data call – commonly referred to as an “Internet
download” - on the BTC network early this morning. This major milestone
brings The Bahamas closer to having a world-class wireless network that
will provide the latest generation of super fast 4G mobile services to
BTC customers.
"There is a lot of excitement within the team as a
result of us making our very first LTE data call on our network early
this morning,” said Antonio Stubbs Sr. VP Technical Services
Organization.
“This is a major milestone for us in the roll-out
of our LTE network as it marks the first time all elements of our own
BTC core and cell radio infrastructure were used to do an LTE
transaction. Over the next 5 to 6 weeks, we are now able to ramp up our
implementation of LTE radio hardware and integrate same into our
billing and other systems.”
Marlon Johnson, Sr. VP Brands and
Communication, explained that LTE means that everything on a BTC mobile
will be that much faster due to more sophisticated applications.
“Data
downloads and video streaming for instance will be noticeable faster
and coverage extended. This new LTE network will put BTC on par with any
mobile carrier in the world in terms of data performance. It will also
allow for exciting commercial applications – allowing businesses to
conduct commerce wirelessly on a very fast and ultra reliable platform,”
noted Mr. Johnson.
LTE delivery will be in two phases. Phase
one is scheduled to begin in time for Christmas on New Providence, and
Phase II which includes Grand Bahama, Abaco and Eleuthera in early
2014. Other major islands of The Bahamas will follow thereafter.
Customers can also look forward to a range of new smart phones, apps and
accessories that enable and make the most of everything LTE.
The
LTE investment is part of a broader investment in the full mobile
infrastructure this fiscal year which will approach some $20 million.
In addition to LTE, the company is also investing in improving the data
and voice performance of their 4G networks throughout the country, with a
consistent aim to improve the customer experience.
The Bahamas
Telecommunications Company (BTC) is the leading telecoms operator in The
Bahamas. BTC is jointly owned by Cable & Wireless Communications
(51%) and the Government of The Bahamas (49%). Cable & Wireless
Communications has both management and Board control.
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