UTStarcom to build broadband network for Beijing E-town

UTStarcom, Inc. (NASDAQ: UTSI) has entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with Beijing BDA Network and Information Co., Ltd. (BBNI) to provide broadband equipment and telecom technology services for a new affordable housing development in Beijing.

The housing development area spans a total of 12 square km. Phase I construction of approximately 3.9 square km, which is scheduled to begin in early 2012, will comprise 160 residential buildings with a capacity of 18,387 households. The rest of the area is expected to be fully developed over the coming years with a mix of residential and commercial buildings.

UTStarcom will provide EPON equipment, packet-optical transport network equipment, and set-top boxes to support the construction of a high-quality communications network to enable users to enjoy audio, broadband, and potentially even IPTV services.

UTStarcom President and CEO Jack Lu said, "Beijing E-town's affordable housing development marks our first project with BBNI, which has shown full confidence in our solution-development and delivery capabilities given our considerable experience serving telecom and cable operators in China.

"The local Beijing government believes it is important to continue investing in the modernization of infrastructure and residential developments and we are pleased to be a part of that process," he added.

BBNI was established by the Beijing Municipality to manage and operate broadband networks and telecommunication infrastructure construction of large-scale industrial projects and high-tech developments in the Beijing E-town area.

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