Over the last 18 months Go has completely replaced its GSM (2G) and 3G mobile network to increase coverage and provide better communication quality and internet speeds, which now can reach 42Mbps,while using a more environment-friendly infrastructure.
Go has replaced its mobile network and is now offering better communication quality and speeds
In September 2011, Go announced an ambitious project which consisted of a massive expansion of its 3G mobile coverage footprint and largely enhanced capacity to ensure high network quality and reliable voice and fast mobile data connections across Malta and Gozo.
Eighteen months down the line the operator has completed the replacement of the entire GSM (2G) and 3G mobile radio infrastructure with new state-of-the-art equipment from Nokia Siemens Networks.
The company says the coverage area of mobile transmission has also been significantly increased, giving Go’s customers the benefit of a superior mobile experience, for both voice and data, the latter being the main area of growth in mobile communications today, especially when considering that in 2012 Malta was placed 16th globally in terms of fixed broadband penetration.
“This is yet another landmark from Go, another first of a kind of infrastructure which yet again places Go above competition,” Go chief technical officer Michael Mertsch said. “Then again, we are not only about being better than the rest, but first and foremost giving our customers the best experience. The new technology allows them to enjoy download speeds of up to 42Mbps.”
The new infrastructure consists of energy-efficient, compact base stations. Go has taken this opportunity to opt for a ‘green’ technology that is substantially more energy-efficient than the one it replaced, thus contributing to the fulfilment of the company’s social responsibility objectives.
The investment was not solely aimed at the upgrading of infrastructure but also enhancing the capabilities of the company’s staff. Back in 2011, when this project was announced, 30 Go engineers and technicians were required to undergo excessive training.
“The combination of new radio sites with our fast fibre optical transmission network is a first of a kind of technology for the Maltese islands as well as for us at Go,” Mertsch added. “Therefore thorough training for carrying out both the installation as well as maintenance was required. Investment in such future proof technology is part of Go’s long-term plans. Our technical team is now ready for what is coming next.”
This new network places Go’s mobile infrastructure capability at 3.5G. Does this necessarily mean that Go is placed first in the race for 4G?
“Although our new 3.5G network is directly linked via fibre optic links, which is important for 4G, further investment shall be done when demand starts to approach the limits of our current network capacity. 4G technology will be provided when the demand justifies the investment. To date the Maltese smartphone user population only scratches the output capability of the existing networks,” explained Mertsch.
This position is also shared by Go’s chief commercial officer Markus Golder.
“Very few own 4G equipment and less use the equipment’s capabilities,” he explains.
“Having the right infrastructure ready for when it’s needed was our main goal, the next steps will be dictated by the demand, this said, even though it will require more than just a click, Go is surely closer than ever.”