4G LTE Network Testing for Pioneer Cellular is Now All Clear

Pioneer Cellular recently completed its end-to-end data testing over its new 4G LTE network. This was done in order to be ready for their commercial launch next spring. They are one of the 13 participants in the Verizon Wireless LTE based in the Rural America program. The testing was conducted for their clientele in central and western Oklahoma.

This cutting edge Pioneer 4G LTE network will allow Pioneer and Verizon Wireless users to make the best of high-speed data services that fall in the ambit of Pioneer's area. Pioneer’s customers will also have access to Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network all through the country.

Pioneer also announced that it would be participating in the LTE in Rural America program last year in December. From then till now they have built cell towers, put down fiber optic cables, and put in place network hardware and software. All this has been done in close working association with Verizon Wireless engineers. Pioneer is currently in the testing stage of its new network as well as its trial devices. Aspects being looked into are speed, reliability and ease of use.

In a release, Richard Ruhl, general manager of Pioneer said, “Pioneer Cellular's participation in the Verizon Wireless LTE in Rural America program will benefit our wireless customers as well as Verizon Wireless' customers by accelerating the benefits of high-speed mobile broadband to rural areas where 4G LTE mobility is not available. Partnering with Verizon Wireless will help to ensure we are able to address the future needs of the rural communities we serve who have historically not been the first to benefit from technologies like 4G LTE.”

Pioneer's 4G LTE network now includes over 260,000 people. This population is spread across 21 counties across more than 17,000 miles of central and western Oklahoma.

Dan Mead, president and chief executive officer of Verizon Wireless said, “This is an important milestone in our LTE in Rural America program because it demonstrates what can be accomplished by two companies with the common goal of empowering rural America.” 

He continued, “A robust wireless broadband infrastructure is vital for economic development in rural communities. We are committed to supporting our LTE in Rural America participants so they can bring wireless broadband to their communities as quickly as possible.”

In other news, Pioneer Cellular recently agreed to purchase CellularOne's subscribers, wireless network and retail stores in five western Oklahoma counties.The deal, which includes all CellularOne assets in Beckham, Custer, Dewey, Roger Mills and Washita counties, would add the cities of Weatherford, Clinton and Elk City to Pioneer's service area.