Intelco Deploys Aperto Networks’ 2.5 GHz Broadband Wireless Systems in Belize
New operator unveils nationwide deployment plans for business, government and residential communities
Milpitas, Calif. and Belmopan, Belize, (April 7, 2003) – Intelco (International Telecommunications Limited), the new telecommunications operator in Belize, and Aperto Networks, leading provider of new generation scalable broadband wireless access systems, have announced deployment of Aperto’s 2.5 GHz PacketWave® multiservice platform in Belize.
Following approval and extensive trials in 4Q 2002, Intelco moved quickly to deploy an operational network with Aperto’s 2.5 GHz point-to-multipoint and point-to-point systems. The initial base of users includes the Government of Belize and its recent joint effort to provide school districts with computers and Internet access. The new deployment will also meet broadband demands of business and residential users in Belize City and the capital, Belmopan.
"Aperto’s PacketWave provides wider coverage, longer range, higher capacity, protocol features such as VLAN tagging and IP routing, and QoS capabilities offering voice transport and service level agreements to business customers, while remaining cost-effective," said Intelco CEO Juan McKenzie. "Given the limited broadband options available in Belize, we needed a system that is highly reliable, scalable, easy-to-install and flexible so that we can be swift in our nationwide deployment plans. Our future growth can also be achieved at a price point lower than alternatives we have reviewed."
"Intelco is an impressive example of how a competitive carrier can often provide better and more economical broadband access," said Reza Ahy, chairman, president and CEO of Aperto Networks. "Aperto’s key technologies allow Intelco to deliver quality voice and data services while extending coverage and system capacity. The combination delivers a solid footprint with very high capacity while using a limited number of base stations, and leverages PacketWave 2.5 GHz point-to-point systems to complement PacketWave 2.5 GHz point-to-multipoint systems in this deployment."
About Aperto Networks
Aperto Networks is a leading provider of multiservice broadband wireless access systems for global markets. The company was founded to provide a breakthrough solution to one of today’s critical network bottlenecks - last-mile broadband access. Aperto’s practical, scalable systems and patent-pending technologies support new wireless builds and complement existing wireline broadband access technology. Shipping to carriers since 4Q 2001, the company has delivered commercial systems to over 20 countries, meeting their need for rapid network deployment, multiservice scalability, ease of installation, IP-rich network functionality, and cost-effectiveness. Aperto dramatically shortens the lengthy provisioning cycles for broadband services by enabling rapid service provisioning across dense urban to suburban locations. Investors in Aperto include Alliance Ventures, Canaan Partners, Tyco Ventures, Innovacom (France Telecom), Stratex Networks, Oki Electric Industry Company, Mitsubishi International Corporation, Ridgewood Capital, Satwik Ventures, Redwood Ventures and Labrador Ventures. For more information on Aperto Networks, go to www.apertonet.com.
About Intelco
Intelco has become the new emerging carrier providing cost-effective, reliable and easily accessible national and international integrated telecommunications services in the country of Belize. Focusing on customer needs and satisfaction, the company will grow its subscriber base, increase its profitability and enhance shareholder value while playing a major role in the development of the country and the region. Intelco is currently providing voice and data services to the Government of Belize through an exclusive contract and will in 2003 begin to provide telecommunication services to the general public. The company has also shown its commitment to social efforts by embarking on a project to bridge the digital divide that exists in Belize by donating 5000 computers and Internet access to public schools nation-wide.
