NBN Co and Ericsson today announced a new 10-year partnership to secure the supply of innovative, next-generation 5G technology that will deliver enhanced coverage and speed across the nbn fixed wireless access network.
The partnership sees Ericsson become the sole supplier of 4G and 5G radio access and microwave transport solutions.
The solutions include Ericsson’s 4G and 5G antenna-integrated radios across nbn’s current and future spectrum bands and the latest Massive MIMO solutions that provide best-in-class performance and energy efficiency in a lightweight small footprint form factor.
The scope also includes Ericsson’s latest high powered 5G millimetre wave (mmWave) solutions, the latest RAN Processor for 4G and 5G, and MINI-LINK microwave transport solutions such as dual carrier solutions in traditional frequency bands, all outdoor E-band, and long-haul.
Ericsson’s extended-range innovation will enable NBN Co to extend its Fixed Wireless network cell range, from 14 km to 29 km, resulting in an expansion of the nbn fixed wireless footprint by up to 50%.
Leveraging a combination of software enhancements and 4G and 5G technologies, including 5G in nbn’s mmWave spectrum band, the upgrade program also aims to uplift the capability of the fixed wireless networkto support higher speed tiers resulting in a dramatically improved customer experience.
Importantly the new infrastructure will also support a future upgrade from 4G to 5G for nbn’s existing cmWave spectrum bands.
As a result of these new capabilities, up to 120,000 homes and businesses in nbn’s satellite footprint are expected to gain access to its Fixed Wireless network for the first time by the end of 2024.
In addition to the over 650,000 premises currently covered across Australia it will also deliver performance benefits to the customers remaining on the Satellite network.
Moreover, the agreement, which builds on the long-term partnership established between NBN Co and Ericsson in 2011, includes a joint commitment to develop and evolve NBN Co’s Fixed Wireless Use Case, paving the way for greater opportunities for regional businesses and individuals to gain greater value from NBN Co’s Fixed Wireless network.
Jason Ashton, nbn Executive General Manager for Fixed Wireless and Satellite, said: “Our network is the digital backbone of Australia, and it is constantly evolving as we help keep communities, businesses and all areas of society connected, and our nation productive.
“Investing in 5G mmWave is a part of our commitment to evolve the nbn Fixed Wireless network for future needs and continually enhance customer experience.” said Ashton
“We’re committed to maximising the performance of both our fixed wireless and satellite networks, and our work with Ericsson will help benefit the more than 1 million homes and businesses covered by these networks across Australia.” he said
Emilio Romeo, Head of Ericsson, Australia and New Zealand, said: “NBN Co’s Fixed Wireless and Satellite Upgrade Program is an important part of Australia’s digital evolution.After working with nbn for more than a decade,”
“I’m pleased that Ericsson’s technology continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the program to deliver better broadband services to people in regional Australia.”
“With the extended range innovation showcased in Ericsson’s industry-leading radio access and microwave transport solutions, more Australians will have access to faster fixed wireless broadband in more places around the country,” said Romeo
