Huawei to Deploy CDMA2000 Infrastructure for Cricket Communications

(Business News & Technology News, 10 Jul 2007)

Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd has signed CDMA2000 infrastructure agreements with Cricket Communications Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Leap Wireless International Inc. and Denali Spectrum Operations LLC for deployment of Huawei's latest third-generation CDMA technology. According to the agreement, Huawei's 3G CDMA technology will support operations in Leap's and Denali's Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum recently acquired in FCC Auction 66.

Under the agreement, Huawei will supply CDMA2000 1x, 1x EV-DO Rev A, and IP based BTS (Base Transceiver Station) BTS3606; Huawei IP platform softswitch¡ªSoftX3000 (MSCe) and UMG8900 (Media Gateway); and high capacity Air Bridge. The design will incorporate Huawei's unique dual homing switch solution as well as end-to-end IP backhaul for increased reliability.

Earlier in 2007, Huawei successfully launched a third-generation CDMA system for Cricket service in the cities of Spokane, Wash., Boise, Idaho and Reno, Nev., a significant milestone in Cricket's first contract with Huawei to deploy its CDMA technology.

"Throughout our in-depth testing and recent commercial launch in the Northwest, Huawei has proven to be a strong business partner sharing our focus on network quality and reliability while also providing an extremely strong technical evolution path," said Glenn Umetsu, Leap's Executive Vice President, engineering and technical operations. "Our strategic partnership with Huawei allows us to further enhance our focus on delivering the highest quality networks and consumer services while maintaining our leadership position on cost, especially as we bring Cricket services to new markets."

"We value the close working relationship with Leap Wireless, and we appreciate Leap's continuous trust in Huawei to further expand their business," said Ken Hu, Chief Sales and Services Officer of Huawei. "This is another major milestone after the successful network launch with Leap Wireless in three markets. Huawei and Leap share a common focus on providing innovative products and services. Huawei's strength in fast response to customers' requirements and in providing competitive products and solutions will continue to build our customers' confidence in Huawei's commitment to their business growth."

Huawei Technologies