11th November 1999

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From today data equivalent to the entire contents of the Encyclopaedia Britannica can be transmitted in one second between Northern Ireland's three leading research organisations using a new wireless network donated by Nortel Networks.

The first of its kind in Europe, the £1 million wireless microwave network forms part of the new Centre for Communications Engineering (CCE), at the University of Ulster's Jordanstown campus and links the University to Nortel Networks' Monkstown campus and Queen's University, Belfast.

A showcase for how universities and industry can work together for the benefit of both, the CCE's new high speed synchronous digital hierarchy (SDH) network can transmit data at the rate of 622Mbits per second, is the only one of its kind in Europe dedicated to higher education, and required a special licence to be granted by the DTI in London.

Fully supported by Nortel Networks, the new SDH network facility will enable researchers to undertake both research and teaching activities, as well as providing additional bandwidth for applied research applications.

Speaking at the launch of the network Northern Ireland Economy Minister John McFall said: "This is an example of high calibre collaboration between education and industry, heralding the Information Age and all its benefits for the economy.

"Nortel has once again demonstrated its confidence in and commitment to Northern Ireland. Together with the Universities, Nortel is providing fresh and workable approaches to key areas of Strategy 2010, such as innovation and design, improved levels of R&D, and greater opportunities for university to industry collaboration.

"In addition to its unique value as a research tool the CCE considerably increases Northern Ireland's skill base in communications engineering and provides a teaching facility without parallel in Europe."

The network serves as a powerful research tool for the JIGSAW project, a multi-million pound pre-competitive research project involving the two universities and co-funded by Nortel and Northern Ireland's Industrial Research and Technology Unit's (IRTU) START programme.

Vice Chancellor of the University of Ulster, Professor Gerry McKenna said: "This exciting new Centre helps us link our long tradition of communications research and teaching in a dynamic and innovative way. It will enable us to attract and retain the highest calibre research staff and students. It will contribute immensely to the consolidation, growth and development of Northern Ireland's information technology sector - a field vital for our society.

"At the University we are deeply committed to fostering links between public and private sector innovation and entrepreneurship. Our Partnership with Nortel Networks in the planning and realisation of the Centre for Communications Engineering is an excellent illustration of how university and commerce can work hand in hand for the benefit of both and a model for future projects."

Peter Schuddeboom, Vice -President, International Optical Networks Product Development for Nortel Networks said: "Nortel is very pleased to be part of this unique communications engineering learning initiative. Coming just a week after our announcement of a massive investment in our Monkstown plant, this facility represents a further confirmation of our commitment to and confidence in Northern Ireland and its people.

"The Internet is the driving force in today's technological world and wireless communications will play an important part in its continuing explosive growth by providing vital mobility and flexibility to users.

"The new Centre for Communications Engineering will build closer links between Nortel Networks, The University of Ulster and Queen's University, Belfast and help encourage Northern Ireland's engineering pioneers of the future."

Also present at the launch was Philippa Forester, presenter of BBC TV's Tomorrow's World science programme. She was on hand to work with 40 sixth-form pupils from two local schools who enjoyed a day-long programme of activities designed to demonstrate the new equipment, and spark their enthusiasm for a career in engineering.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk