LoneStar Introduces New Technology

LoneStar Communications Corporation, a member of the MTN Group in Liberia has launched a new technology, “iConnect Mobile Broadband Internet service.” The new service is based on the latest WiMAX Technology.

The iConnect Mobile Broadband Internet demonstrates LoneStar Cell’s commitment to ensuring that Liberians have access to internet services in any locality of the country where the company has coverage.

With WiMAX iConnect Mobile Broadband service, customers can connect with relatives both at home and abroad through the internet, download movies, music, multimedia services, and voice with the fastest speed of WiMAX.

WiMAX is an acronym for “Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, a wireless digital communications system, also known as IEEE 802.16 which is principally suited for wireless “metropolitan area networks.”  WiMAX can provide broadband wireless access (BWA) up to 30 miles (50 km) for fixed stations, and 3 – 10 miles (5 – 15 km) for mobile stations.

With WiMAX, WiFi-like data rates are easily supported with less interference. It operates on both licensed and non-licensed frequencies, providing a regulated environment and viable economic model for wireless carriers.

Speaking at the launch of the program, the Chief Executive Officer of LoneStar Cell Mazen Mroue, said the company is the first and only GSM network in Liberia to launch the new technology, adding that LoneStar Cell is living up to its vision as the Leader in telecommunications converge  in the country.

Mr. Mroue noted that WiMAX is a cutting-edge technology, firmly set to revolutionize the telecommunications industry as it is widely known for introducing an exciting suite of multimedia services for the benefit of subscribers.

“We at LoneStar Cell – MTN are also delighted at the introduction of the latest Generation of WiMAX technology in Liberia as it will contribute to more efficient systems for existing voice, text and data services, targeting Residential and Business Users. While we continue to increase investments in network infrastructure and work in partnerships with all stakeholders, we are excited that the introduction of this new technology will not only serve to complement initiatives aimed at improving the overall network quality and coverage, but also to support the growth and development of the Liberian economy by giving the business community added advantage to enhance the performance of their businesses by the use of this latest technology,” he noted.

The CEO said that the primary advantages of the WiMAX standard include the adoption of advanced radio features in a uniform fashion and reduce costs for radios manufactured by companies that are part of the WiMAX Forum™ – a standards body formed to ensure interoperability via testing.

He said the more recent Long Term Evolution (LTE) standard similarly describes a parallel technology to WiMAX which is being developed by vendors and carriers as a counterpoint.

Speaking on behalf of the Government of Liberia, Posts and Telecommunications Minister Dr. Fredrick Norkeh, welcomed the iConnect Mobile Broadband Internet service, which will connect Liberia with other countries in the technological field.

Dr. Norkeh said it was worth noting for WiMAX to be introduced in Liberia by LoneStar Communications Cooperation, saying that the creativity of the company should be encouraged so that other GSM companies in the country can emulate.

The Liberian Postmaster General  then thanked the LoneStar Cell family on behalf of  President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and challenged the company to keep improving services to help cut down cost, pointing out that “no country can survival today mainly in the telecommunications sector  without technology because people need to be connected at all times.”