In a related story, Parallel Wireless and Ecosystem Partners announced the general availability of FirstNet-Ready Band 14-in-a-Box. This ultra-compact, lightweight LTE network is the industry's first ready-in-minutes plug-'n'-play 3GPP-compliant solution capable of delivering mission-critical voice and data. By being self-configuring and self-optimizing, this DIY Band 14-in-a-box provides the emergency services community with the most adaptable, resilient, and cost-effective infrastructure for wireless coverage during large public events and natural or man-made disasters.

International broadband video and datacom solutions provider Teleste announced a high-capacity, full-duplex technology providing wireless video and data transfer speeds greater than 4 gigabits between vehicles and ground as well as between moving vehicles. The technology is designed so rail and mass transit operators can take full advantage of their on-board video security systems to help keep passengers, employees, and cargo safe.

Market moves

Verizon announced that it plans to purchase XO Communications’ fiber optic network business for approximately $1.8 billion – a development that illustrates the lingering impact of the crash that hit the telecom industry in the early 2000s. Spokesmen for XO and Verizon confirmed that Verizon is acquiring XO’s fiber customer accounts as well as its network facilities. The deal requires regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the first half of next year.

Another major carrier also announced major changes. Frontier has unveiled a new brand called Vantage that encompasses its suite of HD TV, broadband and VoIP services on the eve of ramping up its FTTH and IPTV footprints. Under the Vantage brand are three main products: Vantage TV, Vantage Internet and Vantage Voice.

Just as important as what happened is what didn’t. Deutsche Telekom has put the sale of T-Mobile U.S. on hold to deal with an upcoming auction of radio airwaves, giving potential suitors time to wait for a more favorable political environment toward telecoms mergers. T-Mobile U.S.'s net profit nearly tripled in the fourth quarter last year after it added more than 2 million customers, overtaking Sprint to become the third largest provider.

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