The ENGINE network to be built for Transtel will combine voice, data, video and Internet traffic on a single network, resulting in lower operating costs and expanding the range of information, services and applications available to end-users.

"The partnership with Ericsson will ensure a real competitive advantage for Transtel's existing and future customers, said Karl Socikwa, CEO of Transtel. "It is clear that to attract customers, we have to provide a premium quality service at competitive rates."

In the initial phase of the contract, Ericsson will deliver the backbone of the network - telephony servers, media gateways, multi-service core switches, routers and the related network management system. The overall contract includes business consulting, design, implementation and infrastructure. Implementation is to be completed by first half of 2002.

"Transtel will be one of the most technologically advanced operators on the continent, and will have a clear edge in taking new services to market," said Jan Embro, Managing Director of Ericsson South Africa. "ENGINE is flexible and adaptable, which will be critical when entering a new market. It will allow the operator to cater for any demands placed on them, whether for corporate or rural services, to give customers telephony services far more cost-effectively," added Mr Embro.

Ericsson's ENGINE multi-service network solutions meet a variety of operator needs from future proof broadband multi-service solutions to all-IP networks, from the protection of existing investments to the provision of new end-user services, and for both cost management and revenue generation.

Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and Broadband Internet communications through its continuous technology leadership. Providing innovative solutions in more than 140 countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful communication companies in the world.