Nextlink Wireless, Inc. announced an agreement to use Ericsson's microwave radio transmission solutions and professional services to support the build out of mobile backhaul networks in the United States. The network control and flexibility provided by the MINI-LINK management systems translate into low operating costs, quick return on investment and a long-term contribution to profitability.

    Under the terms of the agreement, Nextlink will utilize Ericsson's MINI-LINK Traffic Node microwave transmission platform as it deploys services for its wholesale mobile wireless and wireline communications service provider customers. The agreement also includes a complete set of services from Ericsson including installation, integration and hardware support.

    Ericsson's MINI-LINK solution will provide Nextlink with efficient traffic aggregation and scalable capacity to support the requirements of both large and small carrier customers. The solution is capable of supporting broadband wireless links at speeds from 6 Mbps from 155 Mbps. In addition, the solution will enable Nextlink to optimize its network by using a single antenna to support multiple wireless data transmission paths.

    Ericsson's point-to-point microwave solutions, MINI-LINK E, MINI-LINK HC and MINI-LINK TN, fit any application where flexible, reliable and rapidly installed transmission is required, for instance fixed and mobile telecom networks. Other applications in need for cost-efficient wireless connections are first and second mile broadband access as well as private communication networks for example oil and energy companies and municipalities.

    "We have chosen Ericsson as a partner due to their ability to scale to meet the requirements of a wide range of customers as we build and expand our networks," said Robert Beran, president and CEO of Nextlink. MINI-LINK TN provides a platform for compact, scalable and cost-effective wireless transmission. It targets transmission networks for 2G and 3G as well as fixed and broadband networks providing high-density microwave nodes optimized for the aggregation sites in the network.

    "We are very excited to be working with Nextlink on this initiative. Our two companies bring together a combination of vision, experience, and capabilities to deliver high quality transport solutions to the fast growing wireless backhaul market," commented Angel Ruiz, president and CEO of Ericsson North America.

    MINI-LINK TN offers distinct advantages on all sites where two or more radio terminals are to be interconnected; with features that allow a flexible network design, fast implementation and high quality networks. As it is fully compatible with MINI-LINK E the two product families can be mixed and matched in a network to achieve maximum flexibility.