Europe / Caribbean : Alcatel-Lucent announced it has completed the deployment of an enhanced third-generation (3G) network based on CDMA2000® 1X and 1xEV-DO technology covering the entire Caribbean island of Aruba.

The new network will enable SETAR N.V., the leading wireless telecommunications operator in Aruba, to expand its wireless service to offer local customers and tourists high-quality, mobile voice and high-speed broadband data services such as video streaming, access to corporate e-mail and intranets, and many other new applications at speeds of up to 2.4 Megabits per second, as well as CDMA roaming capabilities to tourists.

Under the terms of the agreement, Alcatel-Lucent provided SETAR N.V. with its CDMA Modular Cell 4.0 base stations, as well as comprehensive maintenance services, including network engineering and deployment.

“SETAR’s investment in CDMA will strengthen Aruba's position in the tourism industry, allowing tourists to stay connected while visiting Aruba,” said Roland Croes, Managing Director, SETAR N.V. “This modern telecommunications infrastructure will make Aruba an even more attractive destination for cruise ships, hotels and timeshare guests, and we will be able to introduce new innovative services with the deployment of CDMA2000 1xEV-DO technology.”

According to Croes the response from Aruba citizens and tourists to the voice roaming service with large North American CDMA operators has been very positive.  

“The deployment of CDMA combined with our GSM offering puts our company in a unique position in the Caribbean, as we are one of the first companies offering both technologies in the region,” he noted.

“SETAR N.V.’s selection of Alcatel-Lucent’s equipment for its network is quite an honor given the innovative approach this service provider has in meeting the needs of its customers,” said Olivier Picard, President of Alcatel–Lucent’s Europe and South activities. “We look forward to continuing working with SETAR as they remain at the forefront of wireless developments in the country.”