Nokia MetroSite high capacity system for GSM successfully deployed by Greek operator Cosmote

The Nokia MetroSite system, providing high-capacity boost for GSM networks, has been successfully deployed by Cosmote in Greece.

Cosmote, a leading Greek mobile telecommunications operator with over 1.3 million subscribers, has deployed the Nokia MetroSite solution in its GSM 1800 network. The system, which is now fully operational in their live network, includes Nokia MetroSite GSM Base Stations, Nokia MetroHopper Radios and Nokia MetroHub Transmission Node.

The complete Nokia MetroSite solution forms part of the Nokia High Capacity GSM System. Nokia MetroSite includes a high-capacity base station, a transmission node and two integrated radio links for cellular transmission. Nokia MetroHopper Radio guarantees high-capacity radio network, as it is a wireless access link using the innovative 58GHz frequency technology. It enables hundreds of transmission access points per square kilometer with minimal signal interference. The 58GHz band has now been standardized by ITU-R Radio Assembly, which approved a new recommendation for channel arrangement for the 55.78 - 59GHz frequency bands. This shows the continuing confidence in the use of this band both in Europe and outside Europe.

"The MetroSite solution, especially with the five-watt MetroSite Base Station, is a powerful solution for fast microcell rollout and also an integrated and easy to install solution for indoor applications," said Yiannis Mouroulis the Cosmote BSS Network Division Manager. "The MetroHopper is a highly esthetical and easy to install microwave solution for micro layer networks."

"Nokia is pleased to be working with Cosmote in deploying the Nokia MetroSite system," said Heikki Mustonen, System Marketing Manager of Nokia Hellas, "Nokia MetroSite system satisfies increasing demands for capacity from today's operators in a highly cost effective solution."

The Nokia MetroSite solution is intended for networks in areas of dense call traffic, such as business sectors, train or subway stations and shopping districts. The ability to incorporate both GSM 900 and GSM 1800 transceivers in the same cabinet makes the Nokia MetroSite GSM Base Station ideal for dual band operation, if the operator wants to extend their service to the other band as well. This total site solution is also designed to make high capacity affordable by cutting operators' total cost of ownership.

Nokia is paving the way to the Mobile Information Society with its innovative products and solutions. The company is the leading mobile phone supplier and a leading supplier of mobile, broadband and IP networks, related services as well as multimedia terminals. In 1999, Nokia's net sales totaled EUR 19.8 billion (USD 19.9 billion). Headquartered in Finland, Nokia is listed on the New York (NOK), Helsinki, Stockholm, London, Frankfurt and Paris stock exchanges and employs more than 56, 000 people.

Further information:

Nokia Networks
Communications Department
Tel. (Int.) + 358 9 5113 8193
Fax (Int.) + 358 9 5113 8199

www.nokia.com
nokia.networks@nokia.com