2G modernization half completed; investments in backbone networks prepare T-Mobile for the launch of new technologies

• 2,270 2G base stations replaced at the end of September (50% of the total number of base stations)
• T-Mobile is building a new, high-capacity backbone fiber-optic network
• New infrastructure ready for new-generation networks

Prague, 16 October 2009 - The modernization of the T-Mobile 2G network is entering its second, final stage this month. Within the project, which began in October 2008, all of the 4,540 base transceiver stations (BTS) are being gradually replaced. The new technology supplied by Huawei will bring particularly better quality voice and data services, as well as improved EDGE coverage, as EDGE will be available in all places covered by the T-Mobile signal.

However, T-Mobile is not investing only in its GSM network. In addition to 2G modernization, T-Mobile is making intensive preparations for new technologies such as new-generation mobile networks and IP-based telephone services. The main building block is the "Dark Fibre" project, i.e. construction of a network containing more than 6,000 km of fiber-optic lines which will offer capacity of up to 60×10 Gbitps, thus providing sufficient space for transmission of large data volumes.

The most important project from the customer's point of view - GSM network modernization - has been completed in Moravia, Silesia and in South and West Bohemia. By June 2010, when the modernization process will be completed, technicians will have replaced technology in North Bohemia, Prague and Central and East Bohemia.

The shortest time required for replacement of a base station was 24 seconds. The longest replacement time recorded was eight hours during the replacement of a base station at the Brno fairgrounds, as this base station's technology contained a total of 20 sectors and was located in 13 separate cabinets, while the technology of a standard base station can fit in one or, at most, two cabinets. The average replacement time is 10 to 20 minutes for indoor BTSes and 2 hours for outdoor BTSes. Every day five to seven teams are simultaneously in the field, working on the replacements, and their work is coordinated by T-Mobile experts and Huawei technicians from the Network Maintenance Centre in Prague.

Thanks to the modernization of its network, T-Mobile will be able to offer to its customers improved network quality. For example, the Call Drop Rate, which is an indicator of the number of early-terminated calls, decreased by 33 percent. In addition, new base stations consume less electricity and allow space for the placement of new 3G and NGMN network technology elements. The operating efficiency will also increase, as the whole 2G network will now use one type of technology supplied by a single supplier. Other benefits include improved coverage in remote, sparsely populated areas and in buildings, as the new technology has more sensitive electronics relating to signal reception.

T-Mobile Czech Republic, a member of the international telecommunications group Deutsche Telekom, has almost 6.2 million customers, the number-one operator in the Czech market. T-Mobile is an integrated operator: in addition to telecommunications services, it offers comprehensive ICT solutions not only for companies, but also for other organizations and individuals. It provides outstanding services in the high-speed network, which was proved repeatedly by benchmark testing performed by umlaut (former P3) with Best-in-Test seal.

T-Mobile Czech Republic places emphasis on taking a responsible approach to the environment and society. It adheres to fair business practices, helps beneficial applications and services to see the light of day, supports non-profit organizations, small businesses and individuals, and lends a helping hand whenever crisis situations arise. The company’s employees serve as volunteers in many places across the entire Czech Republic.

More information about the company is available at www.t-mobile.cz, www.t-press.cz (the portal for journalists) and www.t-mobile.cz/pomahame (information on the company’s CSR activities).

Contact details of the press unit: press@t-press.cz.