Wireless solutions provide the combination of less cost and flexibility in camera placement

Alvarion and Aerelink today announced the latest expansion of the wireless network built in Dundee. An additional eight wired leased lines have been replaced by the wireless network; in total over one hundred leased lines have been replaced resulting in immediate savings.

Currently over 100 sites throughout Dundee including several libraries, schools, sports centres, and other council buildings are using this network for their connectivity needs.

Aerelink built the network using equipment from Alvarion's broadband wireless portfolio which supports the advanced applications required by Dundee.

Alvarion's BreezeACCESS VL equipment for the 5.8 and 5.4 GHz spectrum was deployed for point to multipoint connectivity. 

Eleven base stations, located on council buildings throughout the city, provide connectivity to over eighty outdoor and indoor end user terminals. In addition, six point-to-point wireless links using Alvarion's BreezeNET B equipment in the 5.4 and 5.8GHz spectrum provide the backhaul for this network.

The network went live in 2005 and has been expanded continuously as part of Dundee Council's commitment to utilise the most cost-effective and best-value connectivity solution available.

Ged Bell, Head of IT at Dundee City Council, said: "We decided to move to wireless for three main reasons: cost, bandwidth availability and ownership of the infrastructure. This network has saved us over 50% of our annual operating costs over the last three years. We plan to expand it to reach new locations across the city to replace leased lines wherever possible."

It can take as little as just 24 hours for a leased line to be replaced by a wireless connection.

Alvarion's partner Aerelink which designed, built and will maintain the network was recently presented with a Queen's Award for Enterprise, the most prestigious business award in the UK. The company was recognised for continuous innovation in the design and delivery of bespoke wireless solutions and provision of high calibre engineering services

The network went live in 2005 and has been expanded continuously

Richard Watson, Senior Account Manager at Aerelink, said: "Councils across the UK are following Dundee City Council's lead in realising that wireless is the most cost-effective and reliable way of providing connectivity for all kinds of users and applications. In the current financial climate, anybody that spends public money should be applauded for making the leap to wireless connectivity for the cost savings alone."

A number of British towns and cities have selected Alvarion for its ability to deliver superior WiMAX and broadband wireless solutions for private and alternative networks. These networks provide access to various kinds of organisations including city highways, residential homes, businesses and schools. They also improve public safety by connecting law enforcement agencies, fire fighters and rescue workers.