Backhaul partner signed for VividWireless network

Perth’s 4G network build has taken a step forward with Canadian company, DragonWave, signing on to supply wireless backhaul for the forthcoming VividWireless network.

Unwired Australia will use the company’s Horizon Compact for backhaul connectivity of up to 200Mbps between about 150 wireless base stations around Perth, under a new multi-year exclusive supply agreement with DragonWave.

Unwired Australia is helping build and operate the VividWireless network, which is scheduled to launch in March 2010.

The 4G-based service will introduce wireless consumer Internet services peaking at more than 20Mbps. Customers using the service on a laptop will gain average speeds of more than 4Mbps and peak speeds in excess of 20Mbps — up to 10 times faster than those delivered by the existing 3G networks, according to Vivid. Hardware vendor, Huawai, will supply the 4G network equipment.

The VividWireless network was announced at the start of September by the Seven Network, which provided $50 million in funding to roll out the service across Perth.

Former executive director of marketing for Telstra’s consumer business, Martin Mercer, was appointed CEO of the company. Mercer has 10 years’ senior executive experience in the retail and wholesale divisions of Telstra.

“The wide application of services allows Seven Network Limited to further strengthen its digital platform, connecting broadband users to the internet and burgeoning multi-media solutions,” VividWireless chairman, Ryan Stokes, said at the network’s launch.