Huawei Appointed Supplier for Clearwire's WiMAX Network

Clearwire Communications, LLC, an operating subsidiary of Clearwire Corporation, has announced today that it has chosen Huawei as a WiMAX supplier for its next-generation network based on the 4G technology. At the same time, the company has also announced that it has completed the selection of its 4G network infrastructure suppliers, and that the list shows Huawei, Motorola, Samsung, Cisco, Ciena and DragonWave.

The new agreement between the wireless carrier and Huawei states that the latter is to provide the former with WiMAX radio access network (RAN) equipment that will enable the deployment of Clearwire's fast mobile Internet services across the United States. According to the deal, Huawei will deliver key infrastructure pieces, such as base stations and element management system (EMS) components, as well as related network hardware and software.

In addition to the announcement regarding the deal with Huawei, Clearwire also stated that other suppliers for its network deployment included Motorola and Samsung, which would deliver RAN equipment and Cisco, which should provide core Internet Protocol (IP) Next-Generation Network infrastructure solutions. In addition, Ciena will be in charge with base station switching, while DragonWave will provide microwave backhaul transport for the network (additional microwave backhaul equipment will come from Motorola too).

“Our new network is specifically designed to deliver an unmatched combination of 4G speeds, capacity, and mobility to meet the growing demand for wireless broadband services,” said Dr. John Saw, chief technology officer for Clearwire. “As such, we have designed an all-IP network that is efficient, low-cost and scalable using standards-based technology from industry-leading providers. Our existing agreements with Motorola, Samsung, Cisco, and DragonWave, plus today’s addition of Huawei, provide us with the capabilities and support necessary to deliver super fast mobile Internet in more ways for both our customers and strategic wholesalers.”

Clearwire's 4G network is expected to provide fast mobile Internet services, while delivering the same experience as the wired connections today. According to the company, the services will provide an experience similar to that delivered by Wi-Fi, the main difference between them being the fact that WiMAX will deliver connectivity on a much wider range, which can be measured in miles, and not feet.