Ericsson signs GPON contract with Grameen CyberNet in Bangladesh

Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) and Grameen CyberNet Limited, a leading internet service provider in Bangladesh, have signed a contract for a fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network based on Ericsson’s GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network) solution. The move will allow Grameen CyberNet to provide advanced broadband services, such as games and video-on-demand services, to its customers.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will deliver central office optical equipment and devices for the home based on its EDA 1500 solution, plus infrastructure such as fiber systems and cables.

The EDA 1500 is an access solution, a part of Ericsson’s Full Service Broadband offering and is based on the GPON standard that has emerged as the key enabling technology to achieve an all-IP network. GPON is fiber-based, provides high bandwidth and accelerates optical and IP convergence in the access network, packaging voice, data, and video services.

Ghulam Mohiuddin, Managing Director, Grameen CyberNet, says: “This deal is a milestone in the evolution of broadband services in Bangladesh. It highlights Grameen CyberNet’s commitment to offering our customers premium services, employing the latest technology available. Ericsson’s GPON solution will enable us to offer high-quality, feature-rich broadband services to the home.”

Arun Bansal, Managing Director of Ericsson Bangladesh, says: “We are pleased to partner with Grameen CyberNet in providing them our GPON solution. This deal marks the first step for Bangladeshi internet users to experience a real fiber to the home service with availability of innovative broadband applications and features.”

Ericsson is the world’s leading provider of technology and services to telecom operators. The market leader in 2G and 3G mobile technologies, Ericsson supplies communications services and manages networks that serve more than 185 million subscribers. The company’s portfolio comprises mobile and fixed network infrastructure, and broadband and multimedia solutions for operators, enterprises and developers. The Sony Ericsson joint venture provides consumers with feature-rich personal mobile devices.

Ericsson is advancing its vision of ’communication for all’ through innovation, technology, and sustainable business solutions. Working in 175 countries, more than 70,000 employees generated revenue of USD 27.9 billion (SEK 188 billion) in 2007. Founded in 1876 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Ericsson is listed on the Stockholm, London and NASDAQ stock exchanges.