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Alcatel today announced that Proximus has deployed the first phase of its data backbone for 3G mobile communications using the Alcatel multiservice solution. By running its UMTS network over an Alcatel converged network, the Belgian operator can offer multiple, new and existing revenue generating services over a highly reliable network with guaranteed quality of service (QoS).

Proximus is the first Belgian mobile operator to launch its 3G services, which took place on April 8, 2004. The Alcatel equipped network currently covers the capital city Brussels and other major cities in Belgium.

The Proximus high-speed data transfer mobile network is based on the Alcatel 7670 Routing Switch Platform (RSP) and the Alcatel 5620 Network Manager (NM), a managed, single-platform solution that supports aggregation and transport network consolidation of all generations of mobile traffic.

"Mobile operators are seeking competitive, future-proof solutions that will support all types of mobile voice and data traffic," said Basil Alwan, president of Alcatel's IP activities. "Alcatel is well versed in the mobile market and supplies global systems for mobile communications networks worldwide. The Proximus project is an excellent example of enabling enhanced 3G mobile communications by consolidating UMTS services on a highly reliable network. "

The Alcatel solution also has the built in functionality necessary for an operator to migrate to IP (Internet Protocol) services in concert with evolving market conditions and UMTS standards.

The Alcatel 7670 RSP provides the reliability, scalability and multiprotocol performance necessary for service providers to expand their service offerings as they choose. Multiple concurrent services can be provided over this platform, including MPLS-based IP VPN, Frame Relay VPN, Ethernet-Frame Relay VPN service interworking, transparent LAN services (TLS), voice over packet and circuit emulation.