Barrett Xplore will deploy DragonWave’s wireless backhaul technology for its new 4G network in rural Canada. Under the, multimillion-dollar contract, DragonWave will supply its Horizon Compact and Horizon Quantum products.
Barrett Xplore’s investment in this new 4G terrestrial network will be approximately $150 million. Construction of the terrestrial network – capable of 40 Mbps download speeds – began in the fall. When complete, that network will deliver speeds up to 100 Mbps and will consist of 1,200 towers strategically located in rural areas. The terrestrial wireless network will be complemented by a new 4G satellite network, which will be based on new High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) architecture, starting with the first satellite – Viasat-1 – scheduled to launch in 2011, followed by a second satellite – Hughes – Jupiter – in early, 2012. These satellites will allow Barrett to provide robust speeds up to 25Mbps.
“Barrett Xplore’s mission is to bridge the urban/rural broadband divide in Canada,” said Barrett Xplore VP of Strategic Technology Jeff Burlock. “4G will mean that fast, robust, affordable broadband services will be available to all Canadians, regardless of location. The services and benefits of rural broadband cannot be overstated. From telecommuting, to new business growth in rural areas, to distance health and education, rural broadband can change the face of Canada.”http://www.dragonwaveinc.com/
