Vodafone Trials Wireless BackhaulVodafone Trials Wireless Backhaul

Vodafone is trialling new microwave technology

February 18, 2009

1 Min Read

LONDON -- Vodafone is trialling new microwave technology that is set to quadruple current backhaul capacity in channelling voice and data traffic away from base stations while enhancing performance and quality of service levels for customers.

Vodafone has carried out a series of trials investigating the potential of Ethernet microwave which is capable of greatly enhancing the performance of existing microwave backhaul technology.

Under current estimates, the upgrade from typical microwave backhaul technology to Ethernet microwave backhaul technology is capable of raising peak capacity from around 32 Mbps to around 180 Mbps using the same frequency range.

The Ethernet-based point-to-point technology is also designed to support IP based traffic from the Radio Access Network by deploying an adaptive modulation technique that increases throughput, decreases latency while improving quality of service levels for customers.

As the performance boost is based on upgrading the cheaper electronics in the cabinet rather than the more expensive microwave dish itself, the move also offers cost efficiencies.

“As Radio Access Networks are upgraded to reflect growing demand for mobile broadband services, it is important to ensure that the backhaul is able to deliver on that potential,” said Andy MacLeod, Global Network Director of Vodafone. “The trials show that Microwave Ethernet technology can play a role in maintaining high levels of mobile broadband performance for our customers through adopting a holistic approach to maintaining service levels.”

Vodafone UK

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