GENEVA – AT&T Network Systems Inc. introduced its AT&T AirLoop digital wireless loop system that connects central offices to homes or businesses using fixed wireless equipment rather than the traditional copper wire loop.
The system provides the same basic and enhanced voice and data features as wired local loop networks and supports all the services available from the existing local exchange.
“Wireless local loop technology is a mojor breadthrough for service providers faced with the need to serve new customers who aren’t already connected to the public switched telephone network,” said Jim Brewington, president, wireless business unit, AT&T. “With the AirLoop system, established operators, new service providers or operators in developing markets can now offer the full frange of voice and data communications services to residential and dusiness customers not previously accessible.”
The AirLoop can be used in both mature telecommunications markets, where wireline infrastructure already is in place, and in new or developing markets, where the need for telecommunications far exceeds the ability to install wireline infrastructure in a timely or economical manner.
Since the system requires no hardwired connections between the local swith and the subscriber’s premises, the company said the costs associated with installation and maintenance of the local loop are drastically reduced.
AT&T plans to make the system generally available by April 1996.
