Lüderitz is also billed to be connected to the CDMA network this week “if things go according to plan”, said Johannes Duncan, Telecom’s supervisor for network operations in the Karas region.
Telecom’s wireless CDMA network was first launched in Windhoek in November 2006 under the brand name SWITCH. CDMA stands for Code Division Multiple Access.
CDMA inherently provides the best voice quality, fastest wireless data speeds, greatest security through its coding and GPS location capabilities. It is a wireless solution for service providers who want to take advantage of the new market dynamics created by mobility and the Internet for delivering the services that customers are demanding today.
Telecom expanded the coverage of its CDMA mobile network through 2007 to 30 new localities, as part of its N$350 million 2007 network improvements programme. The expansion covered Opuuo, Oshakati, Ondangwa, Omuthiya, Okahao, Ombalantu Ohangwena, Oluno, Oshikango, Ongwediva, Eenana, Omundaungilo, Onesi, Rundu, Oshivelo, Katima Mulilo and Odobe in the far northern regions.
CDMA sites were also set up in Henties Bay, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay in the Erongo region, while Grootfontein, Otjiwarongo and Okakarara in the Otjozondjupa region were also connected during 2007. The CDMA network was extended to Keetmanshoop, Rehoboth and Mariental in the south, as well as to Tsumeb and Okahandja.
According to the network rollout plan, Telecom will expand the wireless CDMA network to more towns and settlements during 2008 to meet the needs of customers for mobile voice and enhanced wireless data services, including text messaging service (SMS).