Bantel Selects iDirect Platform To Offer GSM Satellite Backhaul In Venezuela

July 15, 2008

BANTEL has installed a network of iDirect Series 3000 Remote Satellite Routers, enabling Corporacion Digitel (Digitel) to expand cellular access within Venezuela by backhauling GSM traffic over satellite. BANTEL, a leading service provider in Venezuela, installed the new network on its existing iDirect Series 15000 Universal Satellite Hub. Digitel, the leading cellular operator in Venezuela, will leverage the network to extend the reach of its voice and data services and bolster capacity for existing customers. iDirect is a world leader in satellite-based IP communications technology.

BANTEL selected the iDirect system after a series of extensive tests found that other methods of GSM backhaul proved too costly or incapable of managing voice traffic. The iDirect solution lowers bandwidth requirements and guarantees voice quality through advanced traffic optimization capabilities. Service providers can pool bandwidth across multiple sites on a shared IP Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) network and allocate it to each Base Tower System (BTS) based on its immediate bandwidth requirements. For Digitel, the iDirect network will serve as an alternative to microwave backhaul systems that require greater operating and capital investments. 

“Current microwave backhaul systems require a hub every 50 miles. In Venezuela, this isn’t cost-effective because the distance between sites often exceeds 700 miles. For years, we’ve been working to develop a more effective GSM backhaul solution. With iDirect, we have now brought a viable solution to market and signed our first customer. This is a major accomplishment for us.”   said Ricardo Otaola President, BANTEL.

“There are entire cities in Venezuela whose development is constrained by limited cellular access. With iDirect’s cost-saving GSM backhaul technology, BANTEL is now overcoming this barrier and enabling its customers to deliver service in areas that were previously out of reach.” Dean Griffler, Senior Vice President of Global Sales, iDirect