AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS, Jun 16 (MARKET WIRE) —
WIMAX FORUM GLOBAL CONGRESS – Burco Electronic Systems Ltd, a leading ISP
and IT solutions provider in Malawi, and Aptilo Networks, the global
leader in integrated solutions for control of billing, user services and
access in wireless networks including WiMAX(TM) and Wi-Fi, jointly
announced today that Burco has selected the Aptilo WiMAX CSN System(TM)
for their eWiMAX service, the first WiMAX 16e-based broadband Internet
service in Malawi.
The eWIMAX service is now available for residential and enterprise
customers in the cities of Blantyre and Lilongwe with mobile Internet
browsing at speeds that surpass any current technology available in
Malawi.
The deployment is one of the first in the world taking full advantage of
the latest WiMAX Forum NWG standard, which allows Burco to utilize a
multi-vendor approach to building their network with the most
cost-effective components. Currently the network uses radio equipment
from RuggedCom (formerly WiNetworks), ASN Gateways from WiChorus and a
diverse range of wireless network equipment from a constellation of
different device manufacturers. The use of low-cost devices has enabled
Burco to expand their business to the residential market and increase
their bottom line by better utilizing the costly satellite backhaul links
during off-business hours.
“We decided from the start that going for a vendor-independent full WiMAX
Forum NWG-compliant network design was the only way for us, in order to
minimize risks and ensure a healthy competition among vendors,” said Dave
Varndell, Managing Director, Burco. “The natural choice of WiMAX AAA
vendor was clearly Aptilo as they are delivering a more complete CSN
solution which also works seamlessly with the majority of vendors.”
Policy Control for the Right Bandwidth Allocation
Aptilo’s Policy
Control functionality is of vital importance for Burco, because of the
high cost of international connectivity to landlocked Malawi. Burco is
also utilizing a differentiated charging structure to control bandwidth
use between residential customers — who can enjoy lower prices after
office hours — and businesses that have an exceptional bandwidth
allocation during the day.
Aptilo’s voucher management functionality is integrated with ATM machines
thanks to Aptilo’s provisioning of unique voucher codes for the different
banks’ systems. End-users can refill their prepaid accounts via the ATM
system, which is a common way consumers in Malawi pay bills.
“We are impressed to see how a local operator like Burco is one of the
first in the world to deploy a truly vendor-independent network
architecture according to the latest standards,” said Torbjorn Ward, CEO,
Aptilo Networks. “Africa is a strong region for WiMAX in general and for
us in particular as many operators appreciate our pre-integrated approach
where the benefits of implementing a complete solution, rather than
taking a piecemeal approach, are significant.”
About Burco Electronic Systems Ltd
Burco has steadily become a provider
that Malawi trusts for its internet, computer & IT needs. We offer
hardware, software and internet solutions for businesses and home users
including a range of software products, desktop computers, laptops,
wireless routers, money counting machines and CCTV cameras. Our broadband
Internet service has the largest coverage in Malawi, with a wireless
network currently extending from Chitipa in the north, to Nchalo in the
South.
About Aptilo Networks
Aptilo Networks is the global leader in integrated
management solutions for control of billing, user services and access in
WiMAX(TM) and Wi-Fi networks. Aptilo has become the provider of choice
for service providers, enterprises and municipalities in need of a
rapidly deployable, scalable multi-service solution to easily manage data
and voice services over these networks. From smaller installations to
large carrier networks, Aptilo’s solutions have been deployed in more
than 45 countries. For more information, please visit www.aptilo.com.
“WiMAX Forum” is a registered trademark of the WiMAX Forum. “WiMAX,” the
WiMAX Forum logo, “WiMAX Forum Certified,” and the WiMAX Forum Certified
logo are trademarks of the WiMAX Forum. All other trademarks are the
properties of their respective owners.
For further information please contact:
Hillary Call
Public Relations Manager
Aptilo Networks AB
c/o Call Communications
Phone: +1-917 414-9262
hillary.call@aptilo.com
Dave Varndell
Managing Director
Burco Electronic Systems Ltd
Phone: +2651840777
Mobile: +265999971054
davevarndell@burcomw.com
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