It isnt WiMAX versus LTE

As part of the technical trial-implementation, Commnet Wireless will build an LTE network spanning parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah leveraging ZTE's core dual-mode CDMA/LTE platform to meet the service requirements of roaming subscribers.

Xiangyang Jiang, executive president, ZTE North America, said in New Delhi on Friday: "Technical-trials like this partnership with Commnet Wireless help showcase our core understanding of North American carriers and their technology requirements. As part of this deployment ZTE's technology will allow Commnet Wireless to provide record high-speed voice, video and data services via a high-speed 4G LTE network."

ZTE's LTE platform currently employs the CDMA and LTE bands, which provides carriers with a smooth equipment migration path from CDMA to LTE while keeping infrastructure costs down. ZTE also has the capability to customize the platform for other bands according to the requirements of the carriers - in particular, ZTE can create a multi-mode GSM/UMTS/LTE platform.

As part of future plans ZTE and the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority are in discussions for additional US Broadband Stimulus funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.