Implements approach to enable voice calls to use 3G network from LTE-capable device
Polkomtel, the Polish operator of the Plus network, has implemented Nokia Siemens Networks’ approach to providing voice call services alongside LTE (long term evolution). The approach, called Circuit Switched FallBack (CSFB)*, seamlessly switches customers to Polkomtel’s 3G network to make voice calls, when using devices that receive the operators ultra-fast LTE mobile broadband service.
“While we rolled out ultra-fast 4G/LTE data services, it was essential for us to ensure that our LTE subscribers also enjoyed mobile voice and SMS services to have a unified service experience,” said Robert Dudzik, director of the Product and Service Development Department at Polkomtel Sp. z o.o. “We selected Nokia Siemens Networks because of its rich experience in several CSFB deployments in live networks around the globe, and trusted testing and integration services capabilities. These capabilities helped us implement the voice call solution smoothly and rapidly to ensure a fast rollout of LTE services to our customers.”
“While operators launch new services, it’s important for them to wisely choose a solution that saves capital costs not only while addressing the immediate requirement but also in the longer run,” said Dietmar Heinrichs, head of Polkomtel customer team at Nokia Siemens Networks. “Our CSFB solution reused existing network investments in Polkomtel’s radio and core networks, saving capital costs for the operator. In addition, CSFB system can easily be upgraded to support Voice Over LTE (VoLTE).”
Under the new contract, Nokia Siemens Networks implemented its CSFB voice call system to support voice calls in Polkomtel’s LTE network across Poland. For the LTE network launched in September 2012, the company provided its Single RAN (radio access network) platform which is based on its award-winning, energy-efficient Flexi Multiradio Base Station. In addition, the company provided its NetAct network management system for consolidated configuration, monitoring and network optimization of Polkomtel’s GSM, 3G and LTE networks.
For more information, including a video overview, on Nokia Siemens Networks’ mobile broadband capabilities, follow this link. To share your thoughts on the topic, join the discussion on Twitter using #mobilebroadband and #LTE.
About Polkomtel
Polkomtel is one of the largest mobile telecommunications network operators in Poland, providing its services under Plus brand. Polkomtel currently serves nearly 14 million subscribers, focusing on contract segment mainly, where it holds the leading position with a market share of approx. 30%. Since the beginning of its operations, Polkomtel has been the pioneer in implementing latest technological and data communication solutions on the Polish market. Thanks to such technologies as HSPA, HSPA+, CDMA or older 2G and 3G technologies over 99% of Poland’s population has Internet access which is available not only in the biggest cities, but also in less urbanized areas. Based on cooperation with Midas Group, Polkomtel is also the only Polish mobile network operator providing ultrafast Internet access based on LTE technology.
About Nokia Siemens Networks
Nokia Siemens Networks is the world’s specialist in mobile broadband. From the first ever call on GSM, to the first call on LTE, we operate at the forefront of each generation of mobile technology. Our global experts invent the new capabilities our customers need in their networks. We provide the world’s most efficient mobile networks, the intelligence to maximize the value of those networks, and the services to make it all work seamlessly.
With headquarters in Espoo, Finland, we operate in over 100 countries and had net sales of approximately 13.8 billion euros in 2012. http://www.nokiasiemensnetworks.com
Media Enquiries
Nokia Siemens Networks
Andrzej Stylinski
Executive Communications
Phone: +48 660 430 098
E-mail: andrzej.stylinski@nsn.com
Media Relations
Phone: +358 7140 02869
E-mail: mediarelations@nsn.com
Notes:
*CSFB is a 3GPP-compliant functionality that enhances TD-LTE (time division duplex-long term evolution) and FDD-LTE (frequency division duplex-long term evolution) deployments with voice capabilities. With CSFB, the end-user device is directed to the WCDMA or GSM network for voice calls. The device then remains in that WCDMA/GSM network until the call is completed. Data sessions also remain in the 3G network at much lower speeds. If a dual transfer mode is available in GSM, the data session still continues to use the GSM network. CSFB enables text messaging services (SMS) for LTE subscribers, providing a unified voice and SMS service experience combined with LTE data services. The subscribers can thus use the same phonebook, supplementary services such as call waiting and call forwarding, and the same voicemail box.
More importantly, operators can reuse existing infrastructure investments while they delay the implementation of voice over LTE (VoLTE), based on IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) and including the required system integration for business and operational support systems. In addition, existing roaming systems and inter-operator roaming contracts can be reused. With CSFB, operators can effectively address the competition coming from over-the-top internet service providers. In addition, the functionality helps operators eliminate the problem of frequent handovers between CS and VoIP domains if the quality of VoLTE coverage is not consistent.
PR Archives: Latest, By Company, By Date