To support Cisco Systems Inc. in its commitment to O2 to provide infrastructure for its current GPRS (2.5G) and future third-generation (3G) mobile telecommunications network.
Done.
Using its expertise in the field, Unisys worked closely with Cisco to design and build the necessary infrastructure.
The Partner
Cisco Systems is the worldwide leader in networking for the internet. Cisco’s internet protocol (IP)-based networking solutions are the foundation of the internet and most corporate, education and government networks around the world. The company has pioneered the use of the internet to provide customer support, sell products, offer training, and manage finances.
The Customer
O2, formerly BT Cellnet in the UK, forms part of mmO2 plc, a leading provider of mobile communications services in Europe with a strong position in mobile data and internet services. mmO2 is made up of mobile assets in four countries, the UK, Germany, the Netherlands and Ireland. Additionally, it has operations on the Isle of Man and a leading internet portal business. mmO2 were pioneers in introducing GPRS and in December 2001 its Manx Telecom business launched its third generation network, the first fully operational 3G system in Europe. With its technological insight and deep commitment, mmO2 intends to lead the field in data services with the highest quality networks and state-of-the-art wireless solutions.
A Vision of the Future
The deployment of O2’s 3G IP and asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) core network underpinned the company’s strategy to deliver multimedia content and applications to customers through advanced data services. The provision of an IP and ATM core allows O2 to build upon its position of leadership in mobile internet services, as well as deliver advanced voice, data and mobile internet services to customers through the implementation of the Europe's first universal mobile telephone service (UMTS) technology. This project was a fundamental part of O2’s vision of future advances in its data services, and the company chose Cisco to provide the necessary infrastructure.
mmO2 vice president for technology planning, David Booth, explains. "The creation of new data services, enabled by the IP and ATM infrastructure backbone will have a huge impact on out customer's lives. Already in 2.5G we have seen the launch of new data services, such as Blackberry and the xda. The IP and ATM core lies at the heart of the network we need to support those and future services moving forward towards 3G networks; as such it is a strategically important investment for us."
In July 2000 Unisys launched its Cisco Centre of Excellence (CoE), expanding its Cisco professional services operations and providing a team of professionals offering the highest level of specialist Cisco technologies knowledge. When Cisco took on the project at O2, it turned to Unisys for further expertise in service delivery, knowing Unisys could provide specialist knowledge in several areas using its CoE team. In particular, the Unisys CoE offered in-depth design and implementation skills to certified Cisco internetworking expert (CCIE) level, in the specific area of wide area network (WAN) switching.
Detailing the Plans
Unisys was able to provide detailed and comprehensive implementation plans that enabled both Cisco and Unisys engineers to build the new O2 IP and ATM network. This "design bible" contained all the necessary information and was created especially for O2. Unisys also provided O2 with an independent market evaluation as part of Cisco’s consultancy process, which addressed the product’s entire lifecycle and development. In addition to using its in-depth knowledge of Cisco’s product portfolio, Unisys provided extensive cabling and fitting services.
Unisys solutions director, Paul Linning says, "This was a demanding project and the real challenge lay in ensuring we produced a design that was flexible enough to move with developments in 2.5G and future 3G technology. It has been a great success and we are continuing to develop our competency in this field. We have a strong relationship with Cisco and have gained its trust through our proven expertise."
Cisco Systems account manager, Steve Brigden concludes, "The professionalism and dedication of the Unisys team was totally instrumental in helping Cisco deliver on its promises."
