BEDMINSTER, N.J.-Verizon Wireless signed a $1 billion multi-year agreement with Nortel Networks Ltd. to expand and upgrade the carrier’s nationwide CDMA network.
The agreement calls for Nortel to provide expansion and upgraded CDMA2000 1x radio base stations, switching, Nortel’s Passport Internet Protocol platforms and other related equipment in a number of markets including San Diego, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Detroit, Atlanta and Cleveland. The agreement also includes a new market buildout and deployment in Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Nortel also said its solutions would support Verizon Wireless’ plans to offer Wi-Fi services by providing connections between the carrier’s wide area and local area networks across the country.
Nortel added that the latest deal builds on previous agreements between the two companies beginning in 1996 and including Nortel supplying CDMA2000 1xEV-DO technology for Verizon Wireless’ network in San Diego, which is expected to be commercially available later this year.
