Tecore Networks converted Oklahoma Western’s entire GSM network into an all Internet provider environment. Using iCore platform, Oklahoma Western could upgrade and support legacy and next-generation protocols simultaneously.
Tecore consulted Oklahoma Western on upgrading its mobile network, providing new services like picture and multimedia messaging based on the iCore Multimedia Messaging Service Center. The conversion of GSM BTS’s to iBSS RAM, with BSC and PDU integrated at each node. The new design reduces dependence on different hardware components while allowing processing and more capacity at the network edge.
The upgrade towards the iCore will include an all-IP GSN, allowing for eventual migration towards LTE using software plug ins. Tecore avoids setting up a new network with their technology. Oklahoma Western can upgrade to LTE in the future, offering 4G services.
“Oklahoma Western is investing in a vision to deliver sophisticated cellular services to underserved areas of our state, ultimately closing the gap with 3G UMTS and even 4G LTE,” said Pauline Van Horn, President, Oklahoma Western. “Tecore has been with us from the beginning, and is supporting us as we evolve our network for the future. We would not have been able to achieve our cost targets, timeframe and performance requirements without the unique features of iCore and iBSS, supported by Tecore’s professional services team.”
Oklahoma Western and Tecore team to build a rural cell business in 2002. It will enable faster conversion towards LTE as the network will still be operational. This type of technology could allow regional vendors to upgrade to LTE without losing money and time upgrading their networks. This is a sign that regional vendors are ready to embrace 4G through LTE. The technology is slowly being adopted by regional U.S. carriers. Verizon wants to launch networks by the end of 201o. It should be interesting to see which carriers embrace LTE adoption by upgrading their GSM cell networks.
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