ARSAT, Alcatel-Lucent roll out 100G fiber-optic network in Argentina

Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) says it is working with Argentinean state-owned telecommunications provider ARSAT to deploy a nationwide 100G fiber-optic network that will enable high-capacity data communications over two routes – one between the capital, Buenos Aires in the east and Mendoza in the west, and a second connecting Río Gallegos and Ushuaia in the south, crossing the Magellan Strait.

The 100G networks, announced by the government in 2010, are being deployed by ARSAT. The new fiber cable links will lay the foundation for Internet access and other data services, allowing schools and other institutions to connect to online learning facilities such as a national video library and other services.

The first network, which is due to be completed later this year, will serve major cities in Argentina including Buenos Aires, Rosario, Córdoba, and Mendoza. Ultimately the networks will provide the connectivity to enable high-speed Internet access and digital television for 97% of the people in Argentina.

The coherent transport network is based on Alcatel-Lucent’s Agile Optical Networking technology, and includes 40G and 100G DWDM technology on its 1830 Photonic Service Switch (1830 PSS) platform as well as the 1350 Optical Management System.

Alcatel-Lucent’s 100G optical coherent transmission technology leverages Bell Labs silicon innovations to support data speeds of 100 Gbps on each of the 88 wavelengths of an optical fiber.

Under the contract, valued at approximately $ 7.3 million, Alcatel-Lucent will provide its project management services as well as training and technical assistance for five years.

Alcatel-Lucent’s Marcelo Entreconti, leader of strategic industries for South America said, “Alcatel-Lucent is committed to making Internet access a reality for underserved communities. We are pleased to work with ARSAT on this important project. To date we’ve deployed 100G transport solutions in 90 networks in over 45 countries and we are now ranked number one in lifetime-to-date shipments according to research firm, Dell’Oro.”

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