Runcom, LocaLoop tout low-cost rural wireless broadband solution

OFDMA equipment specialist Runcom and LocaLoop, which offers a cloud-based network operations center solution, have partnered to offer rural network operators a cost-effective LTE or WiMAX deployment solution.

Explaining that most existing wireless infrastructure is designed for higher density markets, the companies said they have come up with a solution that combines Runcom's equipment--which is aimed at lower density market--and LocaLoop's software-as-a-service approach to network operations and business management. The companies believe the combination will allow rural operators to reach profitability rather quickly.

The duo is primarily targeting wireless Internet service providers (WISPs), but rural telcos could also find use in the offering. LocaLoop recently announced that municipal network operator Southwest Minnesota Broadband Services would incorporate the LocaLoop cloud-based offering to support a WiMAX network along a fiber ring the the organization is building with broadband stimulus funding. LocaLoop also is in the process of signing up more customers, some of whom are likely to use Runcom equipment as well.

For more:
- see this Connected Planet article
- read this release

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