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Next Generation Wireless
Broadband Network |
Siemens Canada deploys next
generation wireless broadband network for First Nations Seabird Island
Community
Other topics: WiMAX Wave 2
Chipset, Mobile WiMAX Certification
Testing
BelAir
Networks
June 27, 2007
Siemens and BelAir Networks extend digital reach of residents,
government and businesses
Agassiz, British Columbia -- The Seabird Island First Nation in British
Columbia is setting a powerful example for other First Nation
communities across Canada with its innovative use of technology. They
have implemented new housing concepts which use advanced building
materials, wood from certified forests, energy efficient appliances as
well as solar, wind and geo-thermal solutions to create renewable energy
sources as part of their sustainable community design. The Seabird
Island Band has just taken another step forward into the future with the
launch of a new high performance wireless mesh network solution from
Siemens. The network is providing the community with ubiquitous,
high-speed broadband wireless access supporting residential, educational
and business communication requirements. |
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The scenic terrain is
challenging. It is prone to occasional flooding and rugged weather
conditions which made the wireless network an attractive, flexible
communications alternative to wired solutions. Additionally, as the
internet has become an important educational tool, the local schools
needed a way to provide its students with cost-effective access. Today,
the next generation wireless broadband mesh network provides high-speed
wireless access across the community supporting local educational needs
and more.
“Our new wireless network offers a broad range of communications and
revenue opportunities for us,” stated Chief Clem Seymour. “We will be
able to create new services for the community and offer our local
schools increased educational opportunities through new high speed
connectivity.”
About Seabird Island Network
Siemens and BelAir Networks worked closely with Chief Clem Seymour and
local residents to deploy 49 BelAir Networks wireless access nodes
across the community. The nodes, easily mounted on light poles, provide
a wireless carrier backbone to support a variety of services including
Point of Sale (POS) terminals at the local gas bar and events such as
annual canoe races.
The new network will also help the community defray flood meter
monitoring costs of $1,200 per month by replacing wired lines with a
wireless connection. In the future, the community may also use the
network to extend its Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) network and provide
cost-effective residential telephone service on Seabird Island.
“Siemens is proud to be working with Chief Seymour and his band council
on this exciting project,” said Frank Suraci, responsible for Aboriginal
Relations for Siemens Canada. “We view Seabird Island as an excellent
example of our technology partnership with First Nations’ communities
across Canada. Our goal is to help realize the unlimited potential of
their growing populations in developing socio-economic programs and
technology infrastructure that will enhance and extend wellness,
economic development and community growth." |
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