Malawi Gets First WiMAX Network from Burco Broadband and Aptilo Networks
Fully Compliant with the Latest WiMAX Forum NWG Standard
WIMAX FORUM GLOBAL CONGRESS — AMSTERDAM – 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™ and Wi-Fi, jointly announced today that Burco has selected the Aptilo WiMAX CSN System™ 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 (former 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™ 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.
Media Contacts:
Hillary Call, Public Relations Manager
Aptilo Networks AB
P: +1-917 414-9262
hillary.call@aptilo.com
Dave Varndell – Managing Director
Burco Electronic Systems Ltd
P: +26-51840777 and mobile +26-5999971054
davevarndell@burcomw.com