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Work to install telecoms provider JT’s new 4G mobile network has begun now the key components of the new system have arrived in the Island.
Following the CICRA announcement of 4G spectrum allocation to local telecoms providers last month, the local operators are now just awaiting the final green light from Ofcom and official licences.
In the meantime, installation work is already taking place as JT prepares to replace the existing mobile network with the new version that will not only enable superfast 4G speeds, but will also improve the existing mobile data service. JT says the new network will greatly improve mobile phones, tablets and dongles connectivity inside buildings, or in areas where the signal is currently not as strong.
There will be brief disruption to the existing mobile service when equipment on the individual phone masts is changed. Engineers have planned the works so that the signal will only be switched off for short periods wherever possible, and in one location at a time. JT also say they are carefully planning the works to coincide with periods when usage is at its lowest, and the company will be publishing regular updates about exactly where and when the breaks in service will take place.
The preparation work will not require disruptive road works or any new phone masts, as the new service will connect into the existing Gigabit Jersey fibre-optic network, but every piece of the existing mobile network will have to be replaced from mast aerials to the core switching equipment. This will inevitably mean some disruption as equipment is changed out.
JT's chief technical officer Dave Newbold said: “As with any upgrade of this scale there will inevitably be some disruption, JT are working closely with our supplier to minimise any impacts on islanders. We will keep our customers closely informed as the works progress and have taken all measures we can to ensure work is completed where possible out of hours or at low traffic times. We would hope that the benefits of this new network will far outweigh any disruption caused whilst we install in. We will be publishing daily information on our website and would encourage customers to look there for the latest news.”
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