TECORE Deploys Eritrea's First GSM/GPRS Network; GSM/GPRS Network Deployment to Support 100,000 Subscribers

Business Wire, Feb 2, 2004

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

COLUMBIA, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 2, 2004

TECORE(TM) Wireless Systems, a pioneer supplier of new generation wireless systems, announced today that it has completed the deployment of a GSM/GPRS wireless network for EriTel, the first wireless network for Eritrea. The EriTel network will provide coverage to the capital city of Asmara and extend into the surrounding regions. This turn-key project includes the deployment of TECORE's GSM-based AirCore(R) MSC/VLR (Mobile Switching Center/Visitor Location Register), Prepaid System, SMSC (Short Messaging Service Center), GSN (GPRS Support Node), AirNet(R) GSM AdaptaCell(R) Broadband Software-Defined Base Stations with GPRS and the option of using AirSite(R) Backhaul Free(TM) Base Stations. In addition TECORE, delivered its Billing and Customer Care System which includes a single interface for provisioning multiple services, inventory management, billing record rating, post-paid bill rendering and roaming reporting capabilities - allowing EriTel to easily respond to convergent billing and changing markets, and provide for immediate activation of international roaming.

With an emphasis on improving communications infrastructure, the government of Eritrea committed to an ambitious program to deploy a nationwide mobility network with service availability in the first quarter 2004. Knowing that such a network would encourage investment, create job opportunities and enhance the standard of living, and be responsible for delivering up-to-date information - they wanted a feature-rich, Internet-centric GSM/GPRS distributed mobility network.

"We selected TECORE because only their integrated one-box MSC system could immediately deliver all the advanced GSM features that our subscribers are demanding. In addition to advanced mobility features, the TECORE system enabled us to offer GPRS Internet access, short message service, USSD capability, international roaming, and prepaid services. We needed a system that allowed scalability, efficient operations, fast subscriber provisioning while avoiding the complexity of multi-vendor integration. TECORE delivered a solution that allows modular and seamless upgrades and a sophisticated billing and customer care system that enables us to flexibly respond to shifting customer preferences. And with the help of TECORE's one-stop program management, we have deployed this network in record time and are now ready for the rapid growth of our subscriber base," said Mr. Tesfaselassie Berhane, general manager of EriTel.

"This deployment demonstrates that TECORE continues to lead the way in bringing wireless communications to emerging wireless operators worldwide," said Jay Salkini, chairman and CEO of TECORE. "With TECORE's integrated, cost-effective, scalable, Internet-ready and feature-rich wireless solution, coupled with fully coordinated project management - EriTel was able to meet its aggressive deployment schedule while deploying a reliable, revenue-producing nationwide wireless network," explained Salkini.

To ensure smooth network deployment, TECORE has also delivered professional services associated with program management and system integration for ancillary systems including voicemail, network management, microwave transmission, power equipment, antennas, cables and other ancillary equipment.

About EriTel

EriTel, a full service provider of mobility and value added services, is based in Asmara, Eritrea, and targets the growing subscriber base of residential, business, government and NGO telecommunication users. EriTel will serve local Eritrean markets in a way that delivers the fastest-time-to-market while delivering a scalable infrastructure that accelerates communications and information exchange for enriching the community. Founded by the Government of Eritrea, EriTel is the first GSM cellular license owner within the nation of Eritrea.

About TECORE

TECORE Wireless Systems supplies turn-key wireless mobility networks for regional and country-wide deployments and solutions for migrating existing networks to advanced digital wireless technologies while expanding coverage and capacity. The company's turn-key solutions include its AirCore(R) Mobile Switching System at the core of the network in conjunction with GSM/GPRS, CDMA and TDMA base station solutions to deliver fully-integrated feature-rich services.

As a worldwide provider of scalable networks, TECORE has achieved certification to the prestigious ISO 9001:2000 Quality Standard. Named one of the "20 Firms for the Next Generation", TECORE is a global leader in converging wireless and IP networks and wireless enterprise systems solutions. For more information, please visit the TECORE website at www.tecore.com.

AirCore(R), AirNet(R), and AdaptaCell(R) are registered trademarks with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Other names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies or organizations.