Optus 700MHz LTE trial in Bendigo begins

The telco has connected its first LTE data call in the Digital Dividend spectrum band

Optus has connected its first LTE data call in the 700MHz spectrum band in Bendigo, Victoria.

The telco announced its 4G LTE plans in September.

While it is deploying the network in the 1800MHz spectrum, Optus secured a scientific licence to test LTE services in the 700MHz band.

It teamed up with Huawei for the Bendigo trial, which began this week.

Tests will measure the performance of 700MHz LTE technology in terms of speed, coverage and to ensure it does not interfere with digital television services.

The 700MHz band is highly sought after because it is able to carry data over long distances.

The Digital Dividend spectrum band is up for auction next year. ACMA is running the auction process.

“Today’s announcement is a critical step in Australia’s LTE future as Optus will be the first carrier in Australia to test a variety of commercial available consumer devices on a 700MHz 4G network, including smartphones, tablets, and 4G Wi-Fi hotspots,” Optus Networks managing director, Gunther Ottendorder, said in a statement.

“Optus is using these trials to understand how consumers can maximise the benefits of a modern LTE network.

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More about: etwork, Huawei, Optus
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Comments

Jason

1

Just like Telstra having to start offering new wireless services in a country town because they know it can't perform in the cities!
Sad sad sad.

KP

2

Actually Jason - it's because the spectrum of 700MHz is currently used for analogue TV and needs to be switched off in the metro areas before telcos can roll out. Bendigo is one of the first towns to be switched over to 100% digital, and now 700MHz is available.

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