Finnish vendor Nokia Networks and Nordic telecom group TeliaSonera have conducted a live demonstration of LTE-Advanced three-band Carrier Aggregation (3x CA) using Category 9 (CAT 9) devices. In the demonstration, data rates of 375Mbps on a commercial network was achieved, which is an industry-first in Nordic region.
The end-to-end demo was performed on the commercial network in Helsinki, belonging to TeliaSonera’s local subsidiary, aggregated three LTE FDD carriers of 20MHz, 20MHz and 10MHz bandwidth to deliver ultrafast data speeds, strengthen network capacity and provide an enhanced customer experience.
The demonstration was performed using Nokia Networks’ Single RAN Advanced platform, including the Flexi Multiradio 10 Base Station for high-capacity throughput, with the vendor having carried out a software upgrade to aggregate two 20MHz carriers in 1800MHz and 2600MHz bands with one additional 10MHz carrier in 800MHz band.
Additionally, Nokia Networks was also responsible for network testing, planning and implementation support and CAT 9 devices.
“Our main priority is to offer our customers faster access to high quality video and more responsive data services. Through this groundbreaking trial of 3X CA our network has delivered high data throughtputs with superior reliability, meaning our customers will benefit from superfast multimedia applications and services once the technology is rolled out commercially,” said Timo Hietalahti, Head of Architecture and Development, TeliaSonera Finland.
“This record-breaking demonstration reinforces TeliaSonera’s market and technology leadership. Once rolled out commercially, the new functionality will enable the fastest possible data speeds, providing TeliaSonera with new revenue streams and the opportunity to increase market share,” shared Margus Hunt, Head of TeliaSonera customer team, Nokia Networks.
Sonera plans to continue rolling out the advanced service network-wide once compatible devices are available in sufficient volumes.
