Committed to a quality network and rural service

(October 11, 2011) – Cellcom has begun preparations to deploy fourth-generation (4G) long-term evolution (LTE) technology across their network.

According to president and CEO Patrick Riordan, Cellcom has purchased cellular equipment for the advanced 4G wireless network from Ericsson, a world leader in mobile technologies, and will begin installing the equipment through the remainder of 2011. Extensive network testing will begin in early 2012 and the company plans to deploy 4G LTE across all of its Wisconsin markets by the end of 2012. As the 4G network is turned up, customers will simultaneously have access to a nationwide 4G network thanks to Cellcom partnerships.

“Our aggressive 4G strategy will allow us to provide the same technology that is offered in major metropolitan areas to residents of Northeast and Central Wisconsin and in our service area in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula,” Riordan said. “Meeting the needs of our rural customers is always a key priority, and we are proud to be launching LTE service in these smaller markets as part of our comprehensive plan.”

Cellcom is also working to ensure that a quality network is available when 4G is turned up in 2012.

“A quality 4G-network combines a number of elements working together efficiently,” said Jim Lienau, chief technical officer of Cellcom. “The LTE technology will deliver robust data service with superior performance and very low latency when deployed correctly. Fiber, radio equipment, installation, testing and devices all play a pivotal role in a positive user-end experience with 4G technology.”

Cellcom has a robust fiber-optic network throughout much of its service area and is currently working on three separate projects to expand their fiber network in Oconto and Marinette counties, Door County and Marathon County. Cellcom has also invested in the highest-quality 4G equipment and technicians are currently receiving advanced training.

“To deliver the fast response that 4G offers, all the equipment needs to work together more efficiently,” said Lienau. “Our technicians are being specially trained to install this new equipment and our engineers will be performing advanced testing to make sure everything is working properly.”

Devices are the final element of a quality 4G experience. A 4G-compatible device will be needed to reap the benefits of LTE technology. Cellcom customers can expect devices to be released as the network is prepared for launch. 3G-capable phones will continue to operate on the current network.

“We pride ourselves in being a creative, forward-thinking rural carrier,” said Riordan. “Our latest investment demonstrates this commitment to our customers.”

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Cellcom’s renowned network is customized to their rural markets and customers. Cellcom is a sister company of Nsight Telservices and a subsidiary of Nsight, a provider of national communications services with more than 70 retail and agent locations throughout Wisconsin and Michigan. For more information visit www.cellcom.com.