Telecom Italia today launched the second phase of LTE (Long Term Evolution) technology tests for development of the ultrabroadband Mobile 4G network allowing delivery of next generation services and content with data transmission speeds of up to 140 Mbit/s per cell. Telecom Italia has received Ministry of Economic Development authorization to use two 20 MHz blocks in the 2500-2690 MHz frequency band for the testing throughout 2010.
This latest trial, using pre-commercial equipment and coordinated with major technology partners like Alcatel-Lucent, Ericsson, Huawei and Nokia Siemens Networks, will involve a series of integrated tests on 17 new sites in the centre of Turin, home to Telecom Italia Group's TILab research and excellence centre.
The scope of the project is to verify the main LTE functionality and services and examine the stability and interoperability of the entire communication chain between the partners’ base radio stations and Telecom Italia's existing mobile network, as well as testing the use of the next generation keys for ultrabroadband connection.
The 4G network will deliver at high speed and in mobility all services currently available only over fixed lines including business services like videoconferencing and remote office and personal services such as online gaming, HD video streaming, video chat and numerous multimedia applications.
“We want TIM's mobile network to remain the best in terms of quality and performance. That is why we are continuing to invest in technology and services,” said Oscar Cicchetti, Director Technology & Operations, Telecom Italia. “LTE represents a major step forward enabling us to provide 100 Mbit/s connections, but progresses in 3G technology will already allow us to offer our mobile Internet customers higher speeds over the coming months.”
Rome, 11 August 2010
