News | September 14, 2000

Burst Wireless to demonstrate high-speed, wireless Internet access service with Lucent

Source: Lucent Technologies Inc.
Seattle, WA-based Burst Wireless Inc., founded by telecommunications executives from NEXTLINK Communications and McCaw Cellular, plans to collaborate with Lucent Technologies Inc. (Murray Hill, NJ) in a trial of portable, high speed, wireless Internet access to residential and small business users on a trial basis in the Pacific Northwest. Lucent will provide networking equipment and software, professional services, and network management.

Burst's solution uses spectrum licensed by the FCC to deliver its portable, high-speed Internet access to desktop and laptop computers over a "plug and play" wireless modem. The trial will use spectrum in the 1.9 GHz PCS band and will use wireless Internet equipment that is able to support high data rates planned in third-generation (3G) wireless networks. The customer-centric solution eliminates the complexity and expense associated with "truck roll" service installation, and it does not require line-of-sight between transmitters and user devices.

The trials will take place in Port Angeles, WA, and will involve about 50 participants. They are scheduled to begin third quarter of this year and will evaluate the customer experience in the areas of service activation, portability and customer care.

"We share Burst's vision that an Internet access solution built on a standard-compliant wireless platform will empower consumers with an offering that is portable and flexible to complement their lifestyles and work patterns," said Bill Wiberg, Lucent president AMPs/PCS business unit. "We are eager to demonstrate the value of this service with these upcoming trials."

Burst Wireless was founded in mid-1999 and backed by Mayfield Fund. Focusing on areas underserved by existing broadband services, Burst Wireless plans to deploy its facilities-based service throughout the United States. The Burst Wireless solution will offer wireless Internet access to laptop and desktop computer users who seek speed and portability without compromising the reliability of their Internet connection.

Edited by Ellen Jensen
Managing Editor, Wireless Networks Online