O2 Selects Aircom for Network Planning

O2 has chosen independent network planning and optimization consultancy, Aircom International to help plot network growth.

O2, based in the UK, will use Aircom’s radio network planning and optimization tool, ASSET. O2 said it selected Aircom for the ability to build additional functionality into ASSET. Nigel Purdy, head of technology engineering at Telefónica O2 UK, said the company operates in an extremely competitive and fast-changing market, and that having a great radio planning tool helps it deliver quality more efficiently.

“After a comprehensive bid process and detailed strategic cost analysis, it was obvious that Aircom’s tools offered the best overall solution to our needs,” he said.

More than 175 customers worldwide already use ASSET. The tool accommodates multiple standards – including WiMAX, HSDPA, 2, 2.⁵ and 3G – and features both static and dynamic simulators. This lets it analyze complex network deployments and capacity scenarios, according to Aircom.

Aircom CEO Margaret Rice-Jones said Aircom will be able to generate sophisticated network statistics and reports for O2’s engineers, and ensure the radio network provides maximum quality and capacity while minimizing operational expenses.

The implementation of ASSET into the O2 network has already begun, with a scheduled completion date set for December 2008. O2 also has taken the option to buy more licenses for Advantage, Aircom’s automatic cell planning tool, later in the year.