Range Networks Unveils Enhanced OpenBTS Platform

SAN FRANCISCO, March 26, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Range Networks, the leading provider of commercial open source cellular systems and leader of the OpenBTS software project, today announced the release of OpenBTS 4.0. The software is now shipping in Range Networks laboratory development kits and commercial base stations and is also available to the OpenBTS community as a free download.

The latest generation of OpenBTS offers significant improvements in processing capacity and system management features, including multi-node network scaling enhancements to Range Networks' commercial systems. These enhancements further the migration of radio access network (RAN) infrastructure to low cost, standard hardware using open source software.

OpenBTS 4.0 Key Facts:

• Expanded capacity: Concurrent registration processing capacity has been increased by 14x, providing improved SIP authentication and service for over 1000 subscribers on a single node.
• Frequency scanning and system management API: Includes a built-in channel-scanning tool for transmission frequency selection when deploying systems. Also included is a newly implemented JSON API that allows mobile network operators to easily configure and manage the software remotely. This is done through a browser-based administrative console and provides third parties with an effective way to develop tools and interfaces for OpenBTS and other components.
• Seamless handover and enhanced encryption: A completely new Layer 3 architecture has significantly improved network scalability, including improved handover for multi-node networks. The software now supports the A5/1 and A5/3 GSM link encryption algorithms for enhanced security.
• 4.0 field-tested by small carrier in French overseas territory: Following several weeks of field trials, OpenBTS 4.0 is the foundation of a new, multi-node, low-cost commercial network being implemented by French carrier GlobalTel that will cover the island and city of St. Pierre (pop. 7000) of the French territory St. Pierre & Miquelon, located off the coast of Newfoundland.
• Platform for open source innovation: With its improved performance, Range Networks expects to see an increase in new and interesting applications, services and OEM integration based upon the OpenBTS 4.0 platform.
• Enhanced open source program: Range Networks is also announcing the assignment of a senior engineer, Michael Iedema, as a technical resource dedicated to inciting innovation in the OpenBTS open source community.

SUPPORTING QUOTES:
Christophe Boutin, CEO of GlobalTel, said: "Range Networks' OpenBTS 4.0 and base stations have been fundamental in helping us build a cost-effective carrier network in the remote territory of St. Pierre & Miquelon. We have been testing the network thoroughly for weeks as we prepare to launch this service and are impressed by the improvements in overall stability and performance in this new release."

Edward Kozel, CEO of Range Networks, said: "This launch represents a significant milestone in Range Networks' product development. In addition to the new features, OpenBTS continues to provide stability, reliability and scalability. We see this as a major leap forward in terms of what OpenBTS can do for expanding the reach of non-traditional mobile networks."

About Range Networks
Range Networks is developing the future of cellular networks. Founded by the inventors of OpenBTS, the company is the leader in commercial open source cellular systems. Range Networks' systems are simple to deploy and manage at a fraction of the cost of traditional solutions. Based on OpenBTS, Range Networks delivers mobile connectivity for rural communities, remote industries and emergency responders, and supplies development networks to commercial labs and universities. Additional information is available at: www.rangenetworks.com.

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SOURCE Range Networks