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Cingular beefing up Louisiana wireless net

Feb 27 ,Technology


Cingular Wireless will expand its service area and add more backup generators as part of a $165 million upgrade to its Louisiana network.

The nation's largest wireless carrier said Monday it would make a number of improvements to the network that was battered by last year's hurricanes, including the addition of 60 new cell sites, upgraded switching facilities and 150 additional generators to keep cell service working during power outages.

"This year's investment will strengthen and expand our network reach in rural communities and boost emergency back-up power with the addition of more than 150 new generators," said regional Vice President Joe Larussa.

The investment plan also includes integration of network assets from the former AT&T Wireless, which Cingular acquired last year.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International

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