Vodafone Egypt Tests Energy-Saving RAN System

STOCKHOLM -- Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) has announced that it successfully tested Psi-Coverage, a first-of-its-kind energy-saving solution in the Vodafone Egypt Network. Psi-Coverage will provide end users with mobile broadband (3G) coverage, while enabling considerable energy and cost savings for the operator. In the First Field Implementation (FFI), Psi-Coverage lowered energy consumption by 40 percent as a result of reducing the amount of radios used for a 3G base station (from 3 to 1) within the network. By rolling out the solution, Psi-Coverage brings high quality coverage to less densely populated areas. Eliminating excess power consumption creates a more energy efficient network. Tony Dolton, Chief Technology Officer at Vodafone Egypt, said: "Psi-Coverage proved to be successful during testing, it reduced power consumption substantially and helped in saving OPEX/CAPEX costs. We are pleased to have partnered with Ericsson yet again on this opportunity to demonstrate technology leadership." The Ericsson-unique solution eliminates the need for three radios in a coverage area, and instead uses one radio unit that connects three antennas together to provide high quality coverage without the power usage that is necessary in larger cities. The name of the solution is symbolic, as PSI in Greek has the shape of a fork with three teeth, representing the innovative set-up of the network. Ericsson AB