ONTARIO, Calif. – With the launch of its Cellular Digital Packet Data technology, CO-OP Network has tapped into wireless technology for ATM transaction processing. For consistent signal strength and availability, CDPD uses a dedicated path that is fixed to each assigned ATM. According to Gene Polito, CO-OP Network Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer, the CDPD installation process is faster than land-based telecommunications due to less equipment set-up and reduced "wait-time" for activation. While a typical CDPD ATM connection takes only two weeks to install, the common leased line ATM configuration, similar to DSL Internet connections, has wait-times of at least six weeks. "Between making arrangements for leased line circuits and lead-times for installation, the process can become a little sluggish," said Polito. "CDPD complements frame relay and dial-up communication technology, allowing credit unions to quickly expand their presence in targeted communities." Earlier this year, CO-OP Network completed a pilot project for the CDPD wireless system in both high and low volume markets. According to Polito, the test results showed no change in service from the traditional network configurations and the tested ATMs actually had shorter transaction lengths. The wireless network is currently available in most large cities in the United States and plans are underway to make it available in small cities. CDPD installation costs vary according to location and equipment.