mmO2 to start deploying high speed HSDPA

Manx Telecom, a mmO2 subsidiary providing service for the Isle of Man will deploy a super-fast, converged fixed-mobile networks. The commercial third-generation (3G) UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) network will incorporate HSDPA (high-speed downlink packet access) technology as well as Lucent's IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) solution. This platform will enable Manx Telecom to provide both wireless and wireline customers with "blended" mobile high-speed data, multimedia, and VoIP services.

"This will be the first deployment in Europe of a super-fast 3G network, and it will provide invaluable insights into how to develop and extend our multimedia services to additional markets," said Dave Williams, group CTO for mmO2. "This project highlights mmO2's leadership in the introduction of enhanced next-generation solutions."

This HSDPA-enabled network will initially offer data speeds of 3.6 Megabits per second (Mbps) and ultimately will support data speeds of up to 14.4 Mbps. The company says the initial speed is a limitation of initial mobile device implementations.

Beginning in the summer of 2005, Manx Telecom will be able to support a wide range of next-generation services, including the ability to quickly and easily download DVD-quality film and video, and to access email (including large attachments) using their mobile device or fixed broadband connections. Additionally, Manx Telecom's business customers will be able to provide their employees with high-speed mobile access to the same business applications they typically use while in the office.