ACCA Networks, one of Japan’s largest DSL and Optical Fiber Access service providers, has selected Alcatel to launch a WiMAX trial in the Tokyo area.

It will be Alcatel’s first WiMAX reference in Japan based on the 802.16e-2005, the IEEE’s universal WiMAX standard. This contract comes only two months after Alcatel confirmed availability of its Evolium^® WiMAX radio solution for commercial network deployments from mid-2006.

The WiMAX trial network will be deployed in June 2006. ACCA will validate the integration of WiMAX services in its existing DSL portfolio, with a first set of applications including video streaming, high-speed Internet access and Voice-over-IP. The trial is a first step towards offering commercial service and satisfying growing demand for access to advanced broadband Internet applications from any location.

The Alcatel Evolium WiMAX end-to-end solution provided for the trial will operate in the 2.5 GHz frequency band and includes base station equipment, indoor CPE (Customer Premises Equipment), mobile terminals and integration services.

“This cooperation with ACCA illustrates Alcatel’s commitment to WiMAX as a key element of its universal broadband access strategy. It also shows how WiMAX enables innovative service providers such as ACCA to provide their customers with cutting-edge broadband services that can be accessed from anywhere.” noted Marc Rouanne, President of Alcatel’s mobile communications activities.