First Commercial Launch of a 3G UMTS/HSPA Service in the Caribbean

Alcatel-Lucent and SETAR, the leading telecommunications service provider in Aruba, have activated the first 3G UMTS/HSDPA network in the Caribbean. The new network will increase SETAR’s network capacity and enable advanced services such as video-on-demand, video calling, mobile TV and high-speed mobile Internet access. The deployment was conducted under a September 2006 agreement to deliver equipment and related services.

"Alcatel-Lucent’s advanced wireless solution is helping us simplify our network operation, reduce our expenses and will enable us to increase our revenue by making useful new mobile services available to every citizen in Aruba", said Roland Croes, CEO of SETAR. "Alcatel-Lucent is a proven market leader in wireless solutions and has been a reliable partner as we have been expanding our business. They possess the right combination of products, services and support to help us meet our customers’ demands for advanced services."

Under the agreement, Alcatel-Lucent was responsible for the network design and complete network deployment, including network integration and maintenance services. Alcatel-Lucent has provided SETAR with its radio networking solution including base stations, radio network and base station controllers, wireless network management system solutions and engineering tools. Alcatel-Lucent’s 3G UMTS/HSPA solution provides cost-efficient coverage because of the improved radio wave propagation making it easier to provide low-cost mobile broadband services in rural areas as well as improved indoor coverage in urban areas.

"Throughout our long-standing partnership with SETAR, one of the most innovative and advanced service providers in the region, we have supported their business in a number of ways, providing switching, Optical, DSL and ATM solutions, as well as a CDMA/EVDO network that enables roaming service with North American operators, in addition to GSM and WiFi networks", said Olivier Picard, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s activities for Europe and South. "This agreement further proves SETAR’s confidence in our leading-edge technology and our service teams."


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