Hutchison Global Crossing Launches 10Mbps Broadband Internet Access Service

Following the launch of broadband data service for business users last year, Hutchison Global Crossing ¨ is expanding its broadband technology to internet applications. Starting mid 2000 onwards, local residential users will be able to enjoy the ultra internet access speed brought by HGC's exclusive Ethernet Switching Technology which supports the only broadband internet access service in the territory offering 10M speed for both upstream and downstream transmission.

With the Fixed Telecommunications Network Service License awarded in 1995, HGC has been actively developing broadband technology and service applications to meet the future demands for telecommunication service. Today, HGC operates the largest fibre optics network in Hong Kong to provide the infrastructure backbone needed for the company's broadband data services. HGC's Ethernet Switching Technology will also be built on this advanced fibre optics platform to bring reliable and superb broadband internet access service to the local market.

HGC's customers will be able to enjoy a wide range of benefits using Ethernet Switching Broadband Technology:

Ultra speed broadband transmission With Ethernet Switching Technology, transmission speed can be as high as 10Mbps. Its non-sharing channel means transmission speed will not be affected by increased users.

The only two-way 10M transmission available in town While other service providers stress download capability, Ethernet Switching Technology allows both upload and download speed at 10Mbps, bringing extra convenience to customers during upload transmission

Lowest cost of ownership To enjoy HGC's broadband internet service, customers simply need to install an Ethernet card in their computers. With Ethernet card becoming a basic personal computer unit, customers can enjoy bigger savings and convenience by using HGC service.

Reliable transmission quality The underground fibre optics network and data lines inside switching centres in buildings mean transmission quality and stability will not be easily affected by bad weather conditions such as typhoons, frost and heavy rains. Transmission problems often caused by natural worn out or equipment damage can also be minimized, as the network infrastructure is well protected.

Highly scalable network capacity HGC's highly scalable fibre optics network has the capacity to accommodate its fast expanding customer base.

For years, Ethernet Switching Technology has been the industry standard and the most popular LAN network connection technology. Its highly scalable nature and advanced technology supports transmission speed of up to 1 Gbps, meaning the technology can satisfy the ever increasing demand for broadband services and applications in the local market. As the infrastructure designs and application deployment of Ethernet Switching Technology fully develop, customers can now enjoy the fastest broadband internet access of the highest quality.

HGC has also completed its broadband service testing in residential areas including Hung Hom and Tin Shiu Wai. Information collected from hundreds of users covering easiness of connection, transmission speed, service stability and transmission speed showed that 70% of users are satisfied with the broadband service, and that over 85% of the interviewees said they would consider using broadband internet access service provided by HGC.

The company also announced that it has plans to expand broadband service to reach 50 percent of the local population in other parts of the territory in three years.

To supplement its broadband service, HGC will also be launching a broadband portal to bring customers the dynamic world of multimedia and interactive elements via the internet. As broadband internet technology gains popularity, it is expected that contents specially designed for broadband environment will be replacing narrowband as the trend for tomorrow. Customers will be able to enjoy services such as movie previews, pop songs chart, real time broadcast programmes, on-line education, video conferencing and even interactive on-line games made available by broadband technology, making the internet a fun and exciting place for users of all ages.