Ericsson is now offering a new product called ECW or Ericsson Converged Workspace for its business customers. The LTE-capable device, or “box” as they would call it, uses the LTE network of Verizon Wireless and it supports multiple Internet connections including LAN, Wi-Fi, routing services, PBX functionality and voice calls over either a cellular or Internet connection. Ericsson claims that the device can be set up in just a few minutes. The ECW is made for customers who might need to get voice and data services out to work locations that are hard to reach, temporary, and are in need of a standardized connection or updated infrastructure.
Verizon’s LTE connectivity will serve as a backup in case the Ethernet connection fails. The device can also be configured to integrate POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) lines and WAN access via DSL or cable. David Wilson, Director of Connected Devices at Ericsson said that the device has been certified for use on the Verizon LTE network. “Open the box, put SIM cards in and you have a full office in a box,” Wilson added. As for its price, the director commented that the ECW is being positioned in the marketplace to cost significantly less than if you had to buy the equipment individually and that the price range will be around $3,500.