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WiMAX RF—cell-by-cellAWS auctions and the spectrum shuffleRRH takes ‘fiber-to-the-tower-top’RFS meets the press
TV Globo Brasil takes a tailored tack
WiMAX RF—cell-by-cellAWS auctions and the spectrum shuffleRRH takes ‘fiber-to-the-tower-top’RFS meets the press
STAY CONNECTEDThe Radio Frequency Systems Bulletin
3RD QUARTER 2006
T h e C l e a r C h o i c e ™
R A D I O F R E Q U E N C Y S Y S T E M S
T h e C l e a r C h o i c e ™
Please visit us at www.rfsworld.com
Radio Frequency Systems has always taken
great pride in being an innovator and leader in
the RF sector—not least in the RF transmission
line market. Our CELLFLEX transmission line
solution bears testament to this leadership—
a brand that is globally recognized as the
benchmark transmission line technology. Yet
change is afoot in this mainstay element of our
industry—a new wave of choice is engulfing
the RF transmission line market.
The reasons behind this revolution are many.
Significant among these are the end-to-end
network performance pressure associated with
third-generation (3G) and 3.5G broadband
wireless data technologies, and the increasing
demand to reduce network capex and opex.
With every element in the cellular link under
performance and cost scrutiny, RFS is evolving
the RF transmission line into new forms to
shoulder the burden.
The coaxial transmission line fulfils a vital role
in the wireless sector. Making the crucial radio
frequency (RF) link between the ground-based
active radio elements and the antenna at the
tower top, it represents the wireless network’s
final hardware link before embarking on the air
interface.
What has really tipped the balance in the
transmission line equation is the performance
demands of broadband wireless data tech-
nologies, such as worldwide interoperability
for microwave access (WiMAX), high-speed
uplink packet access (HSUPA), 3G/long-term
evolution (LTE) and so on. Quite simply, broadband
wireless data technologies are acutely sensitive
to signal-to-noise levels and, as a result, every
decibel (dB) counts.
This has inspired the development of RFS’s
recently launched CELLFLEX ‘A’ Premium
Attenuation transmission line—an entirely new
selection of transmission line solutions that strips
dB losses from the ‘final link’, and adds this to
performance at the tower top. The challenge for
any transmission line manufacturer addressing
this ‘premium performance’ demand is to retain
the mechanical handling integrity of the trans-
mission line, while still achieving significant
line-loss reductions. It is about striking the
optimal balance—that balance is CELLFLEX ‘A’
Premium Attenuation.
Another important factor is the changing needs
of the global wireless market, coupled with the
volatile nature of global commodity markets.
On the one hand, we’ve seen wireless
technology quickly evolve from one that is
exclusively the domain of wealthy countries, to
one that is providing emerging markets with
a means of ‘leap frogging’ communication
evolutionary stages.
Yet the global increase in raw material costs—
notably copper and oil-based products—
impedes such wireless ‘leap frog’ strategies,
particularly in those countries where average
revenue per unit (ARPU) figures are low and
margins tight. Running almost parallel with this
is a need for a new generation of RF products
(including transmission line) that is easier to
handle, quicker to install and physically lighter
and less-demanding on tower and support
structures. This is most particularly the case in
countries where ‘leap frog’ strategies are being
considered as, more often than not, these are the
locations where tower and related civil structures
are often loaded very close to design tolerance.
This has led RFS to explore alternative
transmission line materials, and has resulted
in the exciting new CELLFLEX L-series: an
aluminum-outer/copper-inner transmission line.
Globally launched in mid-2006, CELLFLEX
L-series promises to find wide application the
world over—not just in emerging markets, but
wherever an alternative cost/performance ratio
and ultra-lightweight transmission solution
might be needed. RFS is particularly proud of
CELLFLEX L-series: one of the lightest foam-
dielectric coaxial transmission line solutions on
the market today.
By far the most relentless pressure and cost
associated with wireless networks in the major
city centres such as New York, London and
32 C O N T E N T S
IMPR
INTRadio Frequency Systems
WorldWideWeb: http://www.rfsworld.com
Publisher: Jörg SpringerExecutive Editor/Editor Asia Pacific South:Peter WaltersEditor EMAI: Regine SulingEditor Americas North: Ann PolanskiEditor Americas South: Luciana Del NeroEditor Asia Pacific North: Sammie QianManaging Editor: Allan AldersonProduction Editor: Christian MichatschArt Director: Marilu Krallmann
Authors: Allan Alderson, Prue Gallagher, Dr. Ellen Gregory, Ben Lazzaro, Mary-Therese RizkallaPhotos: RFS archives, Mick Bennett, Getty Images, photo disc, Tony Koopmans, Ann Polanski, SammieQian, Regine Suling, Jaime Yiang, Ulrich Bock FilmCover art: Matthias SchwedtCover image: Tony Koopmans
Print: Print Design, Minden
Layout and Graphics:inform Advertising, Hannover
Editorial Services:Relate Technical Communications, MelbourneOn the cover: RFS’s new purpose-built 611 CP circularly polarized Band I VHF antenna will soon sitatop TV Globo’s brand new corporate headquarters in Almeda Santos, São Paulo.
Trademarks: CELLFLEX®, BDA®, FLEXWELL®, MicroTenna™, Optimizer®, RADIAFLEX®, RadioFrequency Systems®, RFS®, RFS CompactLine®,SlimLine®, RGFLEX® and The Clear Choice™ are trademarks, service marks or registered trademarks of Radio Frequency Systems.
03 EditorialAdding choice to the transmission line mix
4 What’s NewDouble cell size with 1800-MHz booster
W4A ‘WiMAX-ready’ adaptive antenna series
Penetrator takes on 700-MHz public-safety radio
RFS in-line diplexers offer flexibility-plus
CELL-Tape—a colorful solution to a sticky situation
CELLFLEX L-series—world’s firstcorrugated aluminum transmission line
7 Cover StoryTailored antenna solution
for TV Globo São Paulo
8 ViewpointRFS meets the press
10 WiMAXWiMAX RF—cell-by-cell
11 RF Conditioning‘Fiber-to-the-tower-top’ with RFS remote radio head
12 Wireless SolutionsNortel/RFS multi-beam ‘smart’ antennacollaboration
13 Regional FocusTaiwan: an East Asian tiger earns its stripes
16 MicrowaveUS auctions spawn spectrum shuffle
17 Wireless Indoor SolutionsHybrid coverage solution for Shanghai Metro
18 In TouchRFS introduces transmission line surcharge scheme
RFS Doing dialog at BroadcastAsia 2006
SlimLine on Swan Lake
Fourth edition of RFS Products calalog
Dr. Q’s noble prize!
Tailored antenna solution for TV Globo São PauloOne of the world’s largest broadcast groups—TV Globo—opts for a complete tailored VHF and UHF antenna solution from RadioFrequency Systems at its new São Paulo headquarters.
7
RFS meets the pressRadio Frequency Systems’ involvement at theforefront of today’s mobile communicationsand broadcast industries means that a highlevel of media interest simply ‘comes with theterritory’.
8
‘Fiber-to-the-tower-top’with RFS remote radioheadRadio Frequency Systemsunveils a ‘BTS to antenna’fiber-optic solution thatpromises new levels ofnetwork planning flexibilityfor high call-density ininner urban areas.
US auctions spawn spectrum shuffleAs the USA re-allocates microwave backhaulspectrum for 3G advanced wireless services,incumbent carriers needing to relocate willneed flexible radio link solutions that can bedeployed quickly.
10
WiMAX RF—cell-by-cellAs WiMAX evolves into its mobile variant,carriers the world over are welcoming thisimportant new technology. STAY CONNECTEDexplores the RF issues that will ultimatelydefine WiMAX.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: To celebrate this, our 30th issue of STAY CONNECTED, we have given our magazine asubtle makeover. You’ll notice a greater prominence of RFS’s ‘wave’ logo and ‘wave’ theme, and we’ve alsointroduced a tighter and richer style to the internalpage layouts. We hope you like our new look, andcontinue to enjoy reading STAY CONNECTED.
Adding choice to the transmission line mix
E D I T O R I A L
Stéphane Klajzyngier
Radio Frequency Systems President
11
16
Paris, is the challenge of finding new base
station sites. This is all the more punishing when
considering deployment of entirely new
networks, such as WiMAX, in cities that may
already be concurrently serviced by multiple
layers of 2G and 3G services.
For practical attenuation reasons, the
traditional coaxial transmission line has tended
to ‘tether’ the base transmitter station (BTS) to
within close proximity of the tower top. RFS’s
recent development of the remote radio
head technology (RRH), which incorporates the
traditional passive antenna plus elements of
the base band radio within the antenna body,
effectively ‘untethers’ the BTS from the
antenna. By providing a digital interface at
the tower top, the BTS-to-tower top link can
be run in fiber-optic cable for distances of
many kilometers.
This is the crucial ingredient in permitting the
‘base station hotel’ concept—one where the
BTS is clustered with other BTS in a convenient
location, often many kilometres from the
actual antenna/tower site. RFS’s RRH solution
promises a great deal. The prospective savings in
network planning and site acquisition costs, plus
reduction in network roll-out times, are huge.
While carriers have expressed enthusiasm for
the new transmission line choices offered by
RFS, it is clear that the greatest enthusiasm is not
for any single transmission line technology over
another, but for choice itself. Carriers now
recognize that, in today’s fast-moving wireless
market, what is most crucial is to have a mix of
transmission line technologies on hand.
Quite simply, the provision of a rich mix of RF
solutions permits carriers to more precisely
optimize network performance and maximize
return on investment. Choice in the RF solution
is vital to our customer’s business case, and RFS
is committed to providing and extending this
choice.
Radio Frequency Systems’ new CELL-Tape
weather sealant and marking tape is an innovative
alternative to traditional butyl rubber
sealant tapes. CELL-Tape is made
of self-adhesive silicone that
fuses firmly to produce
UV-protected air- and
water-tight bonds—all
via an ‘easy-on/easy-off’
mess-free application.
With six color options
for easy tower-top
cable identification,
CELL-Tape can elongate
three hundred percent,
stretching tight budgets as
well as delivering tight protection
for the life of the connection.
Used as redundant protection in combination
with RFS’s RAPID FIT cable connectors,
W H A T ’ S N E W 54
Double cel l s ize with 1800- MHz boosterTo support new 1800-MHz global system for
mobile communications (GSM) deployments,
Radio Frequency Systems has developed a compact
and lightweight tower-mounted booster
(BTM184515S) with high power output. Ideal
for extending cell coverage in regions with low
subscriber density—such as major roads, coast-
lines and rural areas—the new booster provides
46-dBm output power, which compensates for
system loss and doubles the size of the cell.
“With this booster, there’s ‘no loss, only gain’,”
said Erik Wille, RFS Area Product Manager for RF
conditioning. “It will suit those carriers with
new 1800-MHz licenses in places
such as Africa, the Middle
East, Russia, Eastern Europe
and Brazil, where there are
large open spaces to cover. By
using boosters, carriers can
deploy fewer base stations, so
ultimately there’s a huge cost-saving
involved.”
The IP66 enclosure-rated RFS 1800-MHz booster
operates at 40 watts, weighs just 16 kilograms,
and is the most compact unit of this power-
rating available. It also features selectable gain
in both uplink and downlink, which facilitates
cell optimization and optimizes handover. “By
amplifying the signal on both uplink and
downlink, signal strength and cell coverage
are dramatically improved,” said Wille. “This
means better quality of service and fewer
dropped calls.”
Designed for tower-mounting to achieve
optimum performance, the booster is used
in conjunction with a power
distribution unit (PDU)
located in the
base station
cabinet. Along
with the booster,
the RFS PDU
(PDU48400D) is
the only system
on the market with an integrated bias-T. This
permits the coaxial cable to transmit DC power
to the booster, streamlining installation by
eliminating the need for a separate power line.
A single PDU can support two boosters for dual-
carrier systems, plus monitor their performance
and activate external base station alarms if
required. Also available from RFS is a booster for
GSM 900-MHz applications (BTM904515S).
One of the world’s first ‘WiMAX-ready’ adaptive
antenna systems has been unveiled by Radio
Frequency Systems. Specially designed to meet
the exacting needs of emerging IEEE 802.16
worldwide interoperability for microwave
access (WiMAX) broadband wireless data
networks, the new RFS W4A series antenna
system features precision beam-pattern shaping.
The new adaptive antenna—which is part of a
broad and growing WiMAX suite of solutions
from RFS—provides network managers with
a powerful tool to ensure optimal data
throughput and a reduction in overall cell-to-cell
interference across the WiMAX network.
“WiMAX technology promises us a new era in
broadband wireless connectivity across fixed,
nomadic and, eventually, mobile platforms,”
said RFS WiMAX Business Development Director,
Martial Guillaume. “It also poses new
challenges on the network management and
RF fronts—most particularly as subscriber
W4A ‘WiMAX-ready’ adapt ive antenna ser ies
RFS in- l ine diplexers offer f lex ibi l i ty-plus
A new in-line variant of Radio Frequency
Systems’ FDGW diplexer series is now available,
offering enhanced flexibility in US personal
communications services (PCS 1900-MHz)/
Cellular (800-MHz) band network overlays. The
new ‘in-line’ variant of the popular FDGW
diplexer series features low- and high-frequency
ports positioned on one side, and the dual-band
port on the other—all in a rugged IP67-rated
housing.
Developed in response to the needs of a North
American ‘Tier 1’ carrier, this practical design
adaptation supports feeder cable sharing
in dual-band ‘806- to 960-MHz/1710- to
2170-MHz’ systems. The in-line diplexer’s
unique polymer coated housing achieves an
IP67 enclosure rating, making it ideal for outdoor
use in any climate. Weighing 1.3 kilograms, it is
ideally suited for pole-mounting.
CELL-Tape—a colorful solut ionto a st icky s i tuat ion
Penetrator takeson 700-MHzpublic-safetyradio
W H A T ’ S N E W
demand increases and greater network capacity
is required. The new W4A series WiMAX
adaptive antenna system specifically addresses
these challenges, by providing the precision
beam-pattern shaping required to dynamically
support the evolving needs of the WiMAX
network.”
Available in 2.5 and 3.5-GHz models (W4A25-
90ANV and W4A35-90ANV), the heart of each
W4A series adaptive antenna system is a
four-element antenna array. Flexible beam-
pattern tailoring is achieved by applying phase
and amplitude modulation to each element. As
a result, the shape of the beam-pattern can be
modified in response to changing subscriber
traffic and interference sources, or as part of a
longer-term strategy to ensure optimal data
throughput, spectrum use or network capacity.
Commercial launch of the new RFS W4A series
WiMAX antenna is planned for the second
half of 2006.
The new Penetrator BPS10 series
offers all the benefits of Radio
Frequency Systems’ popular Penetrator
range in an antenna supporting the
increasingly-important 700 MHz
public-safety radio frequency band.
With a frequency range of 746 to
806 MHz, the Penetrator BPS10
antenna series provides extremely
high gain (12.14 to 16.44 dBi,
depending on selected beam pattern
and tilt) coupled with heavy null fill.
This ensures optimal signal coverage
both close to and distant from the
base station.
By leveraging the Penetrator’s unique,
patented dipole configuration, the
BPS10 can be provided in a
selection of four unique horizontal
beam patterns: omni-directional
(360 degrees), bi-directional or
‘peanut’ pattern, 120 degrees, and
220 degrees, allowing the network
planner to optimize coverage of the
target area and reduce the total
base station count.
Measuring 4.26 meters (14 feet) tall,
the Penetrator BPS10’s robust
fiberglass and aluminum construction
has a rated wind speed of 160 km/h
(100 mph), underscoring the
Penetrator’s proven ‘site tough’
track record.
CELL-Tape attaches easily where needed—
without leaving residue—and can be cut-away
cleanly from cables and junctions when
making repairs. Available in six
colors, CELL-Tape can be
used to color-code tower
top cable installations,
making it easier to
locate cables for
monitoring and repair
purposes.
Able to withstand
temperatures from -54
to 260 degrees Celsius
(-60 to 500 degrees
Fahrenheit) and appropriate
for applications up to 12,000
Volts, CELL-Tape ensures air- and water-
tight bonds are easy to apply, easy to identify
and easy to repair.
The RFS power distribution unit (PDU48400D)
based on RFS’s popular ‘RAPID FIT 2’ design
provide users with familiar connection technology,
enabling trouble-free installation and operation.
The development of additional CELLFLEX L-series
cable sizes is also anticipated, and will
complement RFS’s already-comprehensive array
of transmission line products.
RFS continues to lead the RF transmission
revolution by addressing evolving global market
requirements with cutting-edge technologies.
“Despite wireless infrastructure being at varying
stages of development throughout the world,
RFS continually endeavors to provide universal
solutions,” said Behrens. “CELLFLEX L-series
represents a truly global solution and
complements RFS’s existing palette of
transmission line technologies.”
return-loss and intermodulation performance.
“The electrical performance of CELLFLEX L-series
is superior to some copper transmission cables
offered by our competitors,” he said.
The introduction of CELLFLEX L-series offers
wireless carriers a long-awaited alternative to
copper transmission line. Owing to the continued
increase in raw material costs—particularly
copper—CELLFLEX L-series represents a cost
effective alternative to copper transmission
lines. “CELLFLEX L-series addresses this growing
market concern,” said Behrens. “With aluminum
sharing similar electrical, mechanical and RF
properties to copper, RFS has been able to develop
an RF transmission line that provides a new
combination of performance and affordability.”
CELLFLEX L-series offers a light-weight solution
to assist the rapid roll-out of wireless network
infrastructure. “With the rate of wireless network
deployment at an all-time high, network
providers in certain markets are continuingly
looking for alternative ways of delivering
quality mobile services and coverage to users,”
said Behrens.
Complementing RFS’s broad suite of transmission
line products, CELLFLEX L-series offers user-
friendly compatibility with RFS’s existing range of
grounding kits and clamps, as well as trimming
and preparation tools. Redesigned connectors
Radio Frequency Systems has expanded its
range of transmission line solutions with the
release of CELLFLEX LIGHT (CELLFLEX L-series)—
a foam-dielectric corrugated coaxial cable with
an aluminum outer conducter and a copper inner
conductor. CELLFLEX L-series offers an alternative
price point and performance combination for
establishing the base station to antenna RF link,
and represents a world-first in transmission
line technology.
Developed at RFS headquarters in Hannover,
Germany, and manufactured in select locations
around the world, CELLFLEX L-series is available
now and offered in a 7/8-inch diameter size. Its
robust construction and advanced electrical
performance herald CELLFLEX L-series as the next
generation in RF transmission development.
According to VP Global Product Management
Transmission Lines, Siegfried Behrens, the
introduction of CELLFLEX L-series reinforces
RFS’s industry-leading position. “CELLFLEX LIGHT
complements RFS’s existing CELLFLEX, and
CELLFLEX ‘A’ Premium Attenuation copper
transmission lines and presents users with an
additional transmission line option. Retaining
the superior mechanical performance of CELLFLEX,
CELLFLEX L-series provides increased transmission
line choice and flexibility,” said Behrens.
Weighing only 330 g/m (3.5 oz/ft), CELLFLEX
L-series offers a 34-percent reduction in weight
when compared with CELLFLEX ‘A’, making it
easy to transport, handle and install. Behrens,
explained: “CELLFLEX L-series is the world’s first
corrugated aluminum transmission line and
lightest RF transmission cable on the market
today. Its light-weight design coupled with its
single and multiple bending-radius capabilities,
allow fast installation and make it ideal for
congested tower-top applications.”
According to Behrens, CELLFLEX L-series has
been optimized to deliver world-class attenuation,
RFS’s involvement in a landmark 2004 DTV
project co-developed with consultant S. Merrill
Weiss at the Mt Wilson broadcast site in Los
Angeles. Here, RFS and Weiss designed and
realized an impressive four-broadcaster/seven-
channel shared broadcast facility.
A visit to the RFS broadcast center of excellence
in Melbourne, Australia, in June 2005 confirmed
to TV Globo what the Mt Wilson project had
led it to believe. “RFS is able to offer the best
solution to meet our requirements,” said TV
Globo’s Engineering Manager, Carlos Fini. “They
are technically a very advanced company.”
Demonstrated strengthsAccording to RFS Vice President Broadcast and
Defense Systems, Mike Dallimore, the TV Globo
project demonstrates RFS’s specific strengths.
“While RFS has circularly polarized antennas in
bands II and III, we had not manufactured such
an antenna in band I,” Dallimore said. “Being able
to address such situations is what sets RFS apart.
Our team of skilled broadcast professionals,
backed by arguably the world’s most advanced
interactive computer modeling and development
system, allows us to swiftly realize effective
solutions such as this—even in areas where
we may not have an immediate off-the-shelf
solution.”
With factory acceptance testing successfully
completed in late February 2006, the new VHF
antenna arrived in São Paulo in April 2006, and
is expected to be fully operational in the latter
half of 2006.
VHF antenna. This all-new circularly polarized
Band I VHF antenna provides unrivaled pattern
circularity and premium voltage standing wave
ratio (VSWR) performance—all in a corrosion-
resistant pole-mounted structure.
Global choiceSelected from a global field of contenders,
RFS impressed TV Globo with its engineering
excellence, advanced computer design and
modeling facilities, and proven broadcast-sector
RF expertise. TV Globo first became aware of
RFS’s broadcast system expertise as a result of
TV Globo, Brazil’s leading television group, has
enlisted Radio Frequency Systems to provide a
tailored VHF broadcast antenna solution, along
with UHF infrastructure to meet the needs of
future digital television services, for its premier
São Paulo market. The new antenna is a key
element in a major relocation for TV Globo: one
that will see its current Mt Jaraguá broadcast
facility moved to a brand new multi-story facility
in the financial sector’s Alameda Santos.
The RFS solution is founded on a VHF antenna
specifically developed for the new TV Globo
Alameda Santos site—the purpose-built 611CP
76 W H A T ’ S N E W
Tai lored antenna solut ionfor TV Globo São PauloOne of the world’s largest broadcast groups—TV Globo—opts for a completetailored VHF and UHF antenna solution from Radio Frequency Systems for its newSão Paulo headquarters.
TV Globo’s Engineering Manager, Carlos Fini (center),
inspects the new TV Globo 611CP VHF circularly polarized
Band I VHF antenna. He is accompanied by RFS Area
Product Manager, Verônica Cuchnir (left), and RFS Vice
President Broadcast and Defense Systems, Mike Dallimore.
C O V E R S T O R Y
CELLFLEX L-ser ies—world’s f i rst corrugated aluminumtransmiss ion l ine
CELLFLEX LIGHT—at a glanceWhen: CELLFLEX L-series launched in mid-2006
Where: CELLFLEX L-series feeder cable in 7/8-inch diameter plus
associated connectors, are now available globally.
Attenuation: CELLFLEX L-series boasts an attenuation of less than
6.25 dB/100m @ 2 GHz.
Connector size and range: DIN 7-16 male and female
Jacket options: UV-resistant polyethylene (JL) or flame-retardant jackets (JFNL)
Return loss (VSWR): CELLFLEX L-series and RAPID FIT L-series connector pair
offers return loss performance equal to that of CELLFLEX ‘A’.
Intermodulation (IM)performance: The CELLFLEX L-series cable and connector pair exhibits
consistently low and stable IM levels.
RFS’s 611CP VHF
circularly polarized
Band I VHF antenna,
which was purpose-built
for TV Globo’s new
São Paulo HQ site.
RFS’s 611CP VHF
circularly polarized
Band I VHF antenna,
which was purpose-built
for TV Globo’s new
São Paulo HQ site.
We specialize in broadband multi-channel
broadcast systems, customized according to
specific coverage requirements, existing
infrastructure and future capacity. In digital
broadcasting we offer world-leading channel
combining and filtering technologies, flexible
air-dielectric transmission lines, RF switching
frames, digital monitoring systems and a range
of antenna options, including tailored panel
arrays. A full solutions package.
»You have featured adaptive antenna systems (AAS) at the RFS
booth. Do you think we’ll be seeingincreasing use of ‘smart’ and
‘semi-smart’ antennas in conventional wireless networks? «
We get asked this a lot by the press, which
has devoted considerable column inches to
the ‘smart antenna’ concept since it first
emerged some four or five years ago. However,
the real-world development path hasn’t been
quite as fast-paced as media and marketing
hype might suggest. The reality is that realizing
a truly cost-effective ‘smart antenna’ solution for
global wireless networks has proven an R&D
challenge. This is particularly so for voice-centric
2G and 2.5G networks such as GSM or Code
Division Multiple Access (CDMA).
But, as the wireless sector moves further into the
realm of high-speed data, we believe that a
real business case can be made for more
advanced high-performance base station
antenna solutions. It’s important to understand
that what we’re talking about here is true next-
generation advanced antenna technologies. In
co-operation with global OEMs and carriers,
many more. Rather than merely offering
technology elements, RFS addresses these issues
from a total solutions standpoint, bringing our
cumulative RF knowledge and experience to
every individual situation and delivering a
bespoke end-to-end solution.
» Care to comment on mobile television—will it be the domain
of broadcasters or mobile network operators? «
The fast-developing mobile television
platforms—notably ‘digital video broadcast-
handheld’ (DVB-H)—are undoubtedly a hot
topic in 2006. But it’s still unclear as to whether
DVB-H will be dominated by broadcasters or by
the mobile telecommunication industry. Possibly,
these industries are headed towards some form
of convergence or cooperation. There is a wide
variety of proposed distribution or delivery
models; some based on a cellular base station
model, others on central broadcast sites
supported by translator sites (similar to digital
terrestrial television or DTT).
We believe technology isn’t the issue here—all
the models proposed are more or less proven and
viable technically. At the end of the day, it will
be a case of which delivery model(s) proves most
economic—something that could well be decided
on a case-by-case, region-by-region basis.
What is clear is that appropriate and complete
end-to-end broadband RF solutions will be
essential, regardless of the distribution model
adopted. RFS is already working closely with
broadcasters the world over in early trials and
roll-outs of both mobile and fixed digital television.
»The line between fixed andmobile services is becoming
increasingly blurred. What is RFS’sview on this convergence of fixed and
mobile services? «It is true that, in many parts of the world,
mobile subscriptions are out-numbering
fixed-line services—especially in countries lacking
full and reliable landline infrastructure. In
countries such as India, for example, it is
actually cheaper to address the telephony
roll-out challenge with wireless technologies.
Aware of the economic and functional
advantages of wireless, many fixed-line carriers
are moving into mobile. They realize that
technologies such as wireless fidelity (WiFi),
WiMAX, and VoIP over UMA, offer their existing
subscriber base some level of mobility, and also
present an attractive, competitive option for
wireless-based service subscribers.
Similarly, the high data throughput offered by
emerging 3G and 3.5G broadband wireless
technologies permits wireless carriers to
challenge the wired world’s conventional
broadband wired solutions, such as digital
subscriber line (DSL)-based systems and fiber.
‘Data over the air’ is now a reality.
» How does this impact RF infrastructure? «
Well, for starters, in a merged market, the
wired/wireless QoS must be equivalent—
and ever-improving! And there are other
challenges—interference, system reliability,
average revenue per unit (ARPU) issues and
services. While today’s conventional narrow-
band wireless LAN (WLAN) infrastructure may
suffice for simple single-purpose applications,
the genuinely future-proof in-building solution
will match tomorrow’s handset functionality.
Wireless infrastructure will need to support
the entire spectrum of in-building wireless
applications, right up to emerging worldwide
interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX)
applications. Our in-building wireless solutions
are truly broadband and indeed ‘WiMAX-
ready’, supporting contemporary global
system for mobile communications (GSM) 900,
GSM 1800 and WLAN plus ‘VoIP on UMA’ and
WiMAX—seamlessly.
»What do you say to concernsabout Quality of Service (QoS) and
security in UMAs? «Security is largely a software/encoding
challenge and outside our realm. But QoS,
on the other hand, is of primary importance in
any wireless indoor solution (WINS). UMAs are
just that—unlicensed and largely unregulated—
so there is the potential for co-channel interference
from other close-proximity users within the
UMA band. With UMAs largely in the lower
microwave bands, attenuation within the
in-building environment (walls, windows, ceiling
material and so on) is certainly more challenging
and, unchecked, can impact on QoS. At RFS, we
meet these challenges by drawing on both passive
and active in-building technologies, tailoring
in-building RF coverage for an optimal outcome.
As a technology innovator with a unique
communications perspective, RFS booths at
major trade fairs always attract a stream of
editors and staff writers. At 3GSM Barcelona,
Telexpo São Paulo, SVYAZ-Expocomm Moscow,
and CTIA Wireless Las Vegas, RFS was quizzed
on emerging technologies and asked its opinion
on various media ‘hot topics’. STAY CONNECTED
shares some of these interview dialog from
around the globe.
»Voice over Internet protocol(VoIP) and ‘VoIP over unlicensed
mobile access (UMA)’ have particular relevance to the
corporate sector. Where does RFS fit in with the deployment
of these technologies? «First, it should be clear that many of these
applications will be in-building—an area
where we offer great expertise and superior
total application solutions. From an RF coverage
perspective, in-building environments present
unique challenges. The aim is for ubiquitous
coverage across the enterprise, so that users
experience true high-speed data transferences
in every corner of the building, campus or
wherever. Location-to-location transition should
have no discernible impact on this end-user
experience.
The RF coverage solution should also be
genuinely broadband. The centerpiece of near-
future in-building wireless will be multi-mode
handsets that seamlessly support a range of
second-generation (2G), 2.5G, 3G and 3.5G
98
we’re actively exploring and investing R&D
resources in this area. The RFS W4A adaptive
antenna system for WiMAX that you see on
display here is a prime example. Here, within a
compact form-factor, the W4A offers advanced
beam forming to minimize interference
and maximize coverage, capacity and
signal-to-noise factor.
Similarly, at the Nortel booth you can see the
new multi-beam adaptive antenna beam
selection (AABS) planar phased array. A joint
RFS/Nortel development, the AABS is the first
of what we believe will be a revolution in
smart antenna technologies, tailored for the
more demanding high call-density urban
applications. And you can expect to see more
innovative and exciting base station antenna
solutions of this ilk from RFS in the very
near future.
» Is this the way of the future forcellular base station antennas in the
wireless sector? «What we are witnessing is, indeed, the
next stage in the evolution of the wireless
antenna system—a logical evolution in which
RFS has played a central role since the birth of
wireless telephony in the early seventies. This
is what RFS is all about—the development
of innovative and tailored end-to-end RF
solutions that are genuinely cost-effective and
performance-driven.
RFS meets the pressRadio Frequency Systems’ involvementat the forefront of today’s mobilecommunications and broadcastindustries means that a high level of media interest simply ‘comes withthe territory’.
V I E W P O I N T
At this year’s CTIA Wireless exhibition in
Las Vegas, USA, Radio Frequency Systems
demonstrated a remote radio head (RRH) unit
that is believed to exhibit the
fastest bit-rate of any ‘fiber-
to-the-tower-top’ solution to
date. Compatible with the
open base station architecture
initiative (OBSAI) RP3-01
interface definition, the
landmark RFS development
underpins important new wireless network
deployment and management strategies.
By leveraging the bandwidth and flexibility of
fiber-optic technologies, the RFS RRH system
permits base transmitter station (BTS) to antenna
separation distances of up to 15 kilometers
(10 miles). This allows the BTS to be located in
more easily acquired sites, remote from the mast
and radio head/antenna assembly. In addition,
the RFS RRH fiber-optic link
offers ongoing opex savings,
courtesy of the almost
loss-free ‘BTS-to-tower top’
fiber link.
3-Gbps plusThe unit’s ‘3-Gbps plus’ total
throughput capacity ensures
that the RFS RRH is well-placed to support
powerful RRH networking topologies, such as
‘daisy chain’, ‘ring’ and ‘tree-and-branch’.
The RFS RRH is believed to be one of the world’s
first to be fully compatible with the OBSAI RP3-01
interface definition. OBSAI is an organization of
leading base station vendors, module and
component manufacturers, which aims to establish
a more open base station market, by creating a set
of open specifications for base station architecture.
“We are delighted to have achieved this
important milestone,” said André Doll, RFS Vice
President Product Management RF Conditioning.
“OBSAI-compatibility ensures that our RRH
solution will easily be modified to support
the widest range of
third-generation (3G) and
3.5G wireless technologies,
including worldwide inter-
operability for microwave
access (WiMAX).” It is
predicted that emerging
WiMAX broadband wireless
data networks will have specific needs for such
active tower-top solutions—particularly in the
early stages of network deployment in dense
inner-city areas.
AISG and OBSAI compatibleThe robust and weatherproof RFS RRH unit
provides a digital interface to the BTS, plus
modulation/demodulation and amplification
of both transmit and receive RF signals. In
addition, all antenna interface
standards group (AISG)-
compliant antenna control
and monitoring functionality
is supported via the RFS RRH
and the fiber link. All essential
data channel serialization
and de-serialization, data
buffering, redundancy coding
and clock synchronization can be handled
onboard the unit.
“As is the case with any outdoor base station
technology, we are firmly convinced that
reliability will be the vital ingredient in realizing
the true benefits of any RRH solution,”
Doll said. “To this end, our design efforts
are tightly focused on achieving premium
RRH reliability, along with optimal link bit-rate
and power efficiency.” Commercial launch
of the new RFS RRH system is planned
for 2007.
multiple arrays, and full MIMO/beam forming. In
conjunction with OEMs and carriers, RFS is
developing a WiMAX antenna suite with
offerings that cover all variants at the major
WiMAX frequencies.”
WINs and QoSA significant market sector for WiMAX will
inevitably be in the in-building (wireless indoor
solutions (WINs)) domain, where RFS is actively
involved. “There are a number of elements in
play in the WiMAX WINs arena,”
says Addra. “There is no
denying that WiMAX
mobile’s transmit
diversity and MIMO
func t iona l i t y—
coupled with new
technologies like
remote radio head
(macro and micro/pico)
—will permit the outdoor
network to provide better indoor
coverage. Conversely, the higher frequencies
of WiMAX mean it suffers far greater signal
attenuation, due to walls and building material.
We need to understand the final outcome here,
and the prospective business case for the
wireless indoor solutions (WINs) coverage.”
The indoor and outdoor WiMAX coverage issues
are, according to Addra, inextricably linked—a
multi-variable situation that needs to be
understood before it is addressed. “RFS is
currently conducting a range of WiMAX feasibility
studies in this area to better understand the
impact of outdoor on indoor. Like all things in
broadband wireless, the central issue will be
quality of service (QoS). Carrier market share in
WiMAX broadband wireless data will be
strongly impacted by QoS. Our prime focus is
there, right now.”
requirements,” he says. “This will mean that
WiMAX filters will need to be tailored to suit the
unique frequencies, channel bandwidths, and so
on, of each region.” RFS is currently working
with OEMs and carriers in both Europe and
North America to develop a range of WiMAX
filters—classic cavity filters, ceramic or hybrids—
to meet these unique needs. “RFS is already
well-practised in addressing such situations
with OEMs and operators,” Addra says.
The service’s elevated frequency, coupled with
the addition of ‘multiple input/multiple
output’ (MIMO) functionality
to the latest version of the
WiMAX standard, have
inspired some powerful
base station antenna
evolutions. The
reduced wavelength
of WiMAX (deployed at
2.3, 2.5 or 3.5 GHz) allows
antenna diversity (‘transmit
diversity’) to be incorporated within
the WiMAX handset. “Currently, OEMs are
applying receive diversity in the base transmitter
stations, but the latest-version WiMAX mobile/
MIMO standard introduces terminal-side
diversity,” Addra explains.
Terminal-side diversity will reduce interference
and allow carriers to increase the coverage
achieved. In addition, the MIMO and beam-
forming base station antennas will permit
powerful beam forming, targeting the coverage
where it is most required and creating nulls
where interference might be detected.
“Interestingly, MIMO functionality is being
incorporated into the third-generation partnership
project’s (3GPP) next evolutionary stage—3G-LTE
so this issue is very important,” Addra says.
“We find that WiMAX carriers want a mix of
different antenna types: conventional single-
polarized (single array), cross-polarized single
array sector antennas, beam forming with
There is no denying the hype and excitement
surrounding the worldwide interoperability for
microwave access (WiMAX) broadband wireless
technology. Strongly standards-based (and
policed by industry body, the WiMAX Forum),
WiMAX is predicted to satisfy a wide range of
applications that can currently only be supported
by wired or fibered broadband connections.
A cell-based technology, WiMAX in its fixed/
portable variant operates over cells of three to
10 kilometres (two to nine miles) radii and
supports capacities of up to 40 Mbps per
channel. Ratified in late-2005, the mobile
variant (IEEE 802.16e) is expected to achieve
around 15 Mbps in cells up to three kilometers
(two miles) in diameter. The technology still
faces many challenges: the incompatibility
between the new mobile standard and its fixed
predecessor; complexities (and controversy)
surrounding allocated spectrum in North
America and Europe; and the long road ahead
to full commercialization.
Radio Frequency Systems Chief Technology
Officer, Modeste Addra, points out that WiMAX
carriers actually face similar network planning
challenges to those presented by conventional
second-generation (2G) and 3G mobile networks.
“Cell sizes will vary according to the subscriber
density,” Addra says. “We will see large cells,
micro-cells and pico-cells. This will be driven by
capacity versus coverage issues.”
Filters, beam-forming and MIMOThe key RF challenges Addra cites in the
WiMAX roll-out will be issues surrounding RF
filtering and base station antenna requirements.
From the filtering perspective, the complexity of
what Addra describes as “the broad radio
panorama” of WiMAX sets interesting challenges.
“For example, the ruling spectrum bodies in
Europe (European Economic Community (ECC))
and North America (Federal Communications
Commission (FCC)) are stipulating different
R F C O N D I T I O N I N G 1110
WiMAX RF—cel l -by-cel lAs WiMAX evolves into its mobile variant, carriers the world over are welcomingthis important new technology. STAY CONNECTED explores the RF issues thatwill ultimately define WiMAX.
W i M A X
‘F iber-to-the-tower-top’ with RFS remote radio headRadio Frequency Systems unveils a ‘BTS to antenna’ fiber-optic solution thatpromises new levels of network planning flexibility for high call-density in innerurban areas.
» Reliability will be the vitalingredient in realizing the truebenefits of any RRH solution
...our design efforts are tightlyfocussed [here]. «
» OBSAI-compatibility ensures [the RFS] RRH solution
will be easily modified to support the widest range of 3G and 3.5G wireless
technologies...«
Although analog mobile
telephone services had existed
in Taiwan since 1989, by
1994, the network was
saturated and stagnating with
just half a million subscribers.
Chunghwa Telecom (then the
DGT) consequently launched a
new digital Global System for
Mobile communication (GSM)
900-MHz network in 1995. The AMPS network
was phased out in 2001.
It was liberalization that opened the door to
network development capable of supporting
today’s ‘world record’ mobile subscriber levels.
In 1997, the MoTC awarded eight whole-island
licenses for Global System for Mobile
azimuthal side-lobe levels, elevation beamwidths
and electrical downtilts that most accurately
match those of conventional sector antennas.
“We are delighted to work with Nortel in this
important development for next-generation
CDMA networks,” said Curtis Cadrain, RFS
Global Key Account Manager. “The Nortel
AABS solution is truly state-of-the-art. We believe
that RFS was the
optimal choice for Nortel
in this cooperative
venture. Successfully
developing and integrating
the precision multi-beam
antenna, beamformer and
smart BTS subsystems into an
efficient operational system
demanded a very special relationship
between unique technology groups.
The relationship between Nortel and RFS—and
the nature of the two companies themselves
—has demonstrated the essential high level of
partnering, shared knowledge and global
expertise necessary for such a landmark
development.”
Development Group (CDG) Service Operator
Requirements for Smart Antenna Technology.
The multi-beam antenna solution has been
precision-developed by RFS to meet Nortel’s
exacting performance specifications. Along with
achieving the required individual beam widths,
beam shapes and ‘crossovers’, electrical downtilts
and gains, the antenna has been designed to ensure
premium beam-to-beam isolation, return loss and
minimal passive intermodulation distortion.
“This solution enables valuable spectrum to be used
in a highly-efficient manner,” said Doug Wolff,
general manager, CDMA Nortel. “By creating
efficiencies with adaptive antenna technology,
operators can support network capacities that
were not previously possible.”
Tailored RF performanceImportantly, RFS and Nortel have
tailored the antenna’s performance to ensure
minimal interference between the new
multi-beam antennas and conventional
full-sector (single-beam) antennas located
elsewhere in the network. To achieve this, great
attention has been spent on achieving antenna
At the CTIA Wireless exhibition held in Las Vegas
in April this year, leading communications
technology and infrastructure vendor, Nortel,
exhibited a multi-beam ‘smart’ antenna solution
specifically designed to meet the needs of
next-generation personal communications
services (PCS) 1900-MHz networks. The antenna
—a multi-beam adaptive antenna beam
selection (AABS) planar phased array, has
been developed in conjunction with Radio
Frequency Systems.
The co-developed Nortel/RFS multi-beam
antenna produces four precision beams—
narrow left, center and right lobes, plus a
full-sector beam (see Figure 1). The AABS system’s
advanced array signal processing and adaptive
beam algorithm directs and distributes RF energy
across three of the four fixed beams (while all
four beams are used to receive signals.) This
‘smart‘ base transmitter station (BTS) also
simultaneously suppresses interference signals
and takes advantage of the signal path diversity
inherent in the multi-beam system. As a result, the
complete AABS system delivers a more spectrally
efficient solution, while allowing more voice and
data traffic within existing spectrum.
Designed to seamlessly integrate into the Nortel
code division multiple access (CDMA) Metro Cell
platform, the Nortel AABS solution is applicable
to IS-95, CDMA2000 1X, and CDMA 1x
‘evolution data only’ (EV-DO) air interfaces.
Florida trialsSystem trials of the Nortel multi-beam technology
conducted at a number of Florida PCS CDMA
sites over the past three years have demonstrated
a two-fold increase in IS-95 voice capacity when
compared with conventional single-beam sector
antennas. In addition, the AABS demands no
change of standards or mobile terminals to
achieve these capacity increase benefits. Nortel
AABS smart antenna solution conforms to CDMA
communication (GSM) network operation,
operating in two bands: 900 MHz and 1800 MHz.
These licenses were secured by: Chunghwa
Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, (FET), KG Telecom,
MoBiTai, TransAsia Telecom and Tuntex Telecom.
Since that time, there has been significant
contraction, resulting not only in several
Towering over the Manhattan-style ‘skyscape’ of
Taipei, the world’s tallest building—Taipei 101—
is symbolic of Taiwan’s push to reach new
economic heights in a future founded upon
foresight: the foresight to rapidly adopt,
assimilate, and take advantage of emergent
technologies.
Taiwan’s overall economic development has
been closely linked to the liberalization of
its telecommunications sector. Increased
privatization and foreign investment has seen
the island’s communications networks evolve
from analog Advanced Mobile Phone Service
(AMPS), all the way to the third-generation (3G)
networks that have just commenced operation.
Today, with a population of almost 23 million,
Taiwan boasts one of the world’s highest
wireless telephony penetration—110 percent—
compared to a fixed-line subscription rate of
just 60 percent. This figure is not only reflective
of Taiwan’s largely inaccessible mountainous
terrain, but also of a citizenry that is constantly
on the go, twenty-four/seven. This year’s IDC
Information Society Index rates Taiwan as having
the world’s highest wireless Internet penetration
rate and third-best overall information structure.
RFS has enjoyed an active participation in the
wireless and broadcast infrastructure development
of Taiwan, where its busy Taipei sales office
has been operating since 2003. In support of the
Taiwanese government’s staunch commitment
to ‘ubiquitous wireless connectivity’, RFS continues
to advise, tender and supply RF solutions to the
country’s OEMs and key stakeholders.
The first steps towards the liberalization of
Taiwan’s telecommunications sector kicked off
from the 1996 Telecommunications Act, which
separated the operational and regulatory functions
of the Directorate General of Telecommunications
(DGT). As a result, the state-run Chunghwa Telecom
was established to provide telecommunications
services in a (fiercely!) competitive environment,
while the DGT’s regulatory responsibilities fell
under the auspices of the Ministry of Transport
and Communications (MoTC).
1312
Taiwan’s ‘economic miracle’ belies its brief 60-year existence.Now offering a genuine broadband mobile communicationsenvironment, this mature wireless market serves as a ‘must watch’ model for the rest of the world.
Nortel /RFS mult i -beam ‘smart ’antenna col laborat ionA Nortel/RFS joint-venture development has produced a multi-beam ‘smart’antenna that achieves a two-fold increase in IS-95 voice capacity, when compared with conventional single-beam sector antennas.
The Nortel/RFS multi-beam antenna
Traffic is chaotic in Taipei metropolis.
Taipei 101 towers over
the capital’s high-rise skyline.
Taiwan: an East Asiant iger earns i ts str ipes
W I R E L E S S S O L U T I O N S
Figure 1:
Schematic illustration of
the multi-beam adaptive
antenna beam selection
(AABS) planar phased array
R E G I O N A L F O C U SAABSSMART
BTS
AABS planar phased array (c/w beam former)
urban areas like Taipei with wireless Internet
access, but also to tie these networks together
with mobile services in an M-Taiwan initiative
called ‘Internet Beyond 3G’. To further spur the
development of popular applications for
broadband Internet users, the government will
have injected US$34 million into WiMAX-related
R&D by the end of this year.
On the mobile TV front, Taiwan is displaying
similar forward vision. In an ‘Asia first’ in July
2005, a new channel, tailor-made for mobile
reception on Kao-hsiung bus services, was trialed
successfully. Again, the government is providing
financial assistance for developing digital
content and advanced handheld devices.
“Taiwanese people—especially the younger
generation that is growing up with wireless
communications—want to keep in touch, stay
informed, be entertained. The ‘community’ in
which this generation lives is not rooted to the
ground, but is as mobile and free-moving as
they are,” Wu says.
“At work, on the street, on the train, in buildings
or outdoors these users will want information
and entertainment dropped right into their
hands. And whether this is via 3G cell phone,
WLAN or WiMAX applications, or even mobile
TV, RFS will definitely be in the picture, helping
to deliver the solutions that deliver the services.”
Taiwan is proving to the world that a mature
market is not a market that has stopped
flourishing. Indeed, as
this ‘East Asian
tiger’ advances into
the 21st century,
pundits predict it
will remain a
pace-setter. Be sure,
too, that RFS will continue
to act as a conduit for these
technological changes as
they evolve.
13 new DTV antenna systems installed in Taiwan,
including the pilot station.
Sharing infrastructure through the use of RFS’s
world-renowned multi-channel combiners has
been a vital element in enabling the five ‘free-
to-air’ broadcasters to meet DTV transmission
obligations with less initial investment.
“Especially in Taiwan’s varied terrain, every
location is different,” says Wu. “RFS provides
more than just equipment. RFS works with local
broadcasters to provide full technical solutions
that ensure optimal coverage in the desired
service areas. In the near future we expect to be
even busier, as the broadcast network is expected
to double in size, with each broadcaster operating
two channels via the coast-to-coast SFN.”
Government goes beyond 3GAs part of an ambitious NT$37 billion (US$1.1
billion) project, called M-Taiwan, Taiwan's
government plans to blanket the island's cities
with broadband wireless data networks that are
integrated with existing mobile phone services
by 2008. The project aims to not only cover
Even more ground-breaking is a project
underway for Taipei Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
Tuchen line extension, which will ensure
commuters on the 400 trains traveling the
tunnels daily will receive GSM/CDMA/UMTS
services. This fully engineered WINS solution,
founded on RADIAFLEX RLKU158 radiating
cable, is consolidating RFS’s reputation in the
region for supplying superior WINS solutions.
RFS Taiwan is also participating in tenders, on a
project-by-project basis, for indoor WLAN
applications in hospitals, airports, universities,
shopping centers and key public buildings.
DTV reaching new heightsIn digital broadcast too, as in mobile
communications, Taiwan has been an early-runner.
The European Digital Video Broadcasting-
Terrestrial (DVB-T) standard was formally adopted
in 2001, enabling the establishment of Single
Frequency Networks (SFN) in which more than
one transmitting site may service the same
coverage area. RFS came in on the ground,
providing end-to-end RF solutions for 11 of the
(KRTC) is currently under construction, to provide
a 380-400 MHz Terrestrial Trunked Radio system
(TETRA) for emergency and safety services. RFS’s
solution—based on RADIAFLEX radiating cable—
addresses 25 kilometers (15 miles) of tunnel across
37 stations within the city’s central business district.
“One of the reasons for RFS selection as a
supplier was that our radiating cables achieved
endorsement by Taiwan’s National Fire
Authority, meeting low-smoke, low-halogen
requirements,” explains Wu. The project is
scheduled for completion in the fourth-quarter
of 2007.
In another important in-tunnel TETRA project—
this time for Taiwan Rail Authority—RFS last year
supplied 162 kilometers (100 miles) of RLVL114
and RLK114 RADIAFLEX radiating cable.
4000 base stations, with almost no site sharing.
Now, to deliver 3G services, each operator
will require 1000 to 1200 new sites to
optimize coverage,” says Wu.
“Each 2G site is being shared by
two or three 3G providers
and, of course, minimizing
costs of additional cabling
is a critical factor. RFS is an
important supplier of
GSM/CDMA diplexers for
feeder sharing to these
sites—potentially some
18,000 sets throughout
Taiwan. In a current trial
project with FET, for exam-
ple, some 120 diplexer sets
have already been installed,
with more in the pipeline once
the trial is complete.”
Wonders of WINSNot surprisingly in a country characterized by
high-rise urban developments sited above largely
subterranean rail systems, wireless indoors
solutions (WINS) are of particular importance.
The first integrated WLAN/GSM services were
rolled out by Taiwanese operators during the first
quarter of 2005 and were initially available in
three cities—Taipei, T’ai-chung and Kao-hsiung.
These are to be expanded to a further seven cities
by 2008. By then, the government expects to see
more than 4 million wireless subscribers in
Taiwan using dual-mode handsets that support
WLAN and GSM networks.
Again, RFS is stepping up to the plate with wireless
in-building and in-tunnel solutions. An in-tunnel
solution for Kao-hsiung Rapid Transit Corporation
mergers and acquisitions, but new players
have also come onto the field.
Five years later, in February 2002, just five 3G
wireless licenses were auctioned in two spectral
bands: 800 MHz code division multiple access
(CDMA) 1x, and 2100-MHz wideband code
division multiple access (WCDMA). Far from
watching from the sidelines, RFS’s expertise was
called into play as the company worked with
OEMs and the Taiwanese government in
finalizing 3G spectrum allocation to ensure
minimal 2G/3G interference.
By 2006, three of the five 3G license holders
dominate the market: Chunghwa Telecom,
Taiwan Cellular Corporation (TCC), and FarEas
Tone (FET). Planning to make its move into 3.5G
by making Taiwan the world’s largest testing
ground for worldwide interoperability for
microwave access (WiMAX) technology, the
government will auction four WiMAX licenses by
the end of 2006. The ‘Big Three’ will, no doubt,
each secure their WiMAX positions, but a
fourth competitor has yet to come out in the
open and declare an interest.
According to RFS Taiwan area sales director,
Jason Wu, in the island’s intensely competed
communications market, the key drivers are
user demands for high-quality, diversified,
seamless services, and high-speed data.
Mobile and moving“With mobile subscription at such a saturation
point, our mobile phone operators are all
working aggressively to develop data and
value-added services, which boost average
revenue per unit (ARPU). Mobile Internet, mobile
office, mobile banking, mobile information
services, ring-tones and music downloads—
these are the kinds of offerings for which users
are prepared to pay. With such desirables at
their fingertips, Taiwan’s 3G user base is expected
to number two million by the end of 2006,”
he says.
Establishing the infrastructure to support 3G
roll-outs—and complying with a Government
policy of minimizing the numbers and locations
of new base stations—has led to increasing
carrier collaboration and infrastructure sharing.
“By 2005, we had seen explosive growth in the
sector and an island-wide network of some
1514For the Taiwan Rail Authority (TRA) tunnels project,
RFS supplied 162 kilometers (100 miles) of RLVL114
and RLK114 RADIAFLEX radiating cable.R E G I O N A L F O C U S
Taipei Chi-lung
Su-ao
Hua-lien
T’ai-chung
Chang-hua
T’ai-nan
T’ai-tungKao-hsiung
Traditional Chinese architecture is still evident across the island.
“Although it might be faster and more cost-
effective to use existing microwave antenna
systems, there’s also the chance these might
already be capacity-limited, or consist of old
equipment. This is really a huge opportunity to
upgrade to digital technology, where capacity is
much less of an issue. The 4, 6 and 7-GHz bands
are, for the most part, ideal for high-capacity,
long-distance microwave links; while the higher
frequency bands are more applicable for links
over medium or short-distances,” says Zoberi.
Suite of SolutionsRFS designs and delivers complete microwave
antenna systems for radio link networks in each
of the bands being considered. This includes an
extensive suite of antennas—including standard,
high and ultra-high performance models, and
the popular RFS CompactLine, SlimLine ranges—
plus FLEXWELL elliptical waveguide, dehydration
systems and accessories.
“RFS is committed to providing cost-effective
and high performance backhaul solutions,”
says Zoberi. “We’ve pioneered the development
of small-diameter dishes that meet FCC part
101 Category A pattern requirements in the
10 and 11-GHz bands, providing more choice for
users of this band. Added to that, we have
a premium manufacturing facility here in
the USA, enabling fast turnaround and system
deployment.”
Although incumbents of the 1700 and 2100-MHz
bands are still confronted by a lot of unknowns,
there are already many RFS solutions available
to meet their backhaul relocation needs,
says Zoberi.
relocation of wireless backhaul services to
different bands. “It will most likely come down
to each and all of these options being considered
on a case-by-case basis,” says Zoberi. “Each link
will be assessed in terms of interference, available
infrastructure and available capacity.”
Of the options available, microwave radio links
remain the most flexible. Although T1 lines
present a speedy solution, they incur ongoing
leasing costs that dramatically increase overall
cost of the system. Fiber networks are fast and
high-capacity, but are difficult and expensive to
deploy—especially over rugged terrain—plus
are more susceptible to natural disasters.
Microwave links, on the other hand, can cover
great distances without incurring extra cost, can
be deployed quickly, and offer payback periods
of as little as two years. Furthermore, with
microwave backhaul, users have total control of
the system.
The frequency bands specified by the FCC for
microwave backhaul relocation are illustrated
in Figure 1. Federal government incumbents
currently using the 1710 to 1755-MHz band
can opt to use existing systems in the 1750 to
1850-MHz band, or deploy new systems in the
4 or 7-GHz bands. Similarly, non-government
incumbents (2110 to 2150-MHz) can use
existing 2450 to 2483-MHz systems, or move to
the 6, 10, 11 or 18-GHz bands. The decision,
says Zoberi, lies in the desired application.
The planned mid-2006 auction of advanced
wireless services (AWS) spectrum in the USA is
generating great enthusiasm on the part of
commercial mobile phone carriers hoping to
deploy third-generation (3G) services in the
newly allocated bands. However, for those
incumbents already using the 1700 and
2100-MHz spectrum for wireless backhaul
applications, a tough decision lies ahead. They
must find new backhaul routes—and quickly—
to allow them to vacate the spectrum without
disrupting existing services.
The spectrum being auctioned by the US federal
communications commission (FCC) comprises
the 1710 to 1755-MHz band, currently utilized
by federal government organizations, and
the 2110 to 2150-MHz band, allocated to
non-government organizations such as rail
companies, State Governments, and several
commercial carriers. The cost of relocating
backhaul services will be footed by the new
spectrum license-holders; and, according to Asad
Zoberi, Radio Frequency Systems Microwave
Area Product Manager, these are likely to want
to liberate the spectrum right away.
“There are certain key markets—such as
New York or Los Angeles—where the new
license-holders will want to make use of the
AWS spectrum quickly,” Zoberi says. “We expect
the relocation activity here could start in a
matter of months. There could even be a
measure of transitional frequency sharing,
providing there’s no interference generated.
Whatever the case, it’s certain that speed of
deployment will be a key factor in the choice of
new backhaul mechanism.”
Backhaul case-by-caseIncumbents have a number of backhaul options:
lease of existing T1 lines, deployment of fiber
networks, utilization of existing microwave
backhaul systems in neighboring bands, or
RLKU series radiating cable. Fifteen optical
repeaters positioned along the length of the
tunnels will support a fiber optic backbone
system. Each high-power remote unit will
convert the optical signal into RF and amplify
it through each tunnel—maintaining the
signal levels along the entire tunnel. In this
particular installation, the optical repeaters
will be positioned approximately two kilometers
(1.2 miles) apart through the longest stretches
of transmission.
Jacky Tang, RFS Senior
Regional Sales Manager, said
that a key design feature
was the customization of
the distances between each
optical unit to minimize
overall system loss. “Some
stations were more than two
kilometers (1.2 miles) apart,”
he said. “We needed to
individually assess each sub-
section of the line—in terms
of distance and strength of
signal—to determine the
In 2006/2007, joint-venture railway infrastructure
development group, Shanghai Hong Kong Metro
Construction Management, will incorporate
Radio Frequency Systems’ wireless indoor
solutions (WINS) to support an in-tunnel
communications system for Shanghai Metro
line ‘M9’. The new section of the metro will
include 13 new stations from Song Jiang to
Yi Shan Road in Shanghai’s south west, and
incorporate twin-bore 12-kilometer (7-mile)
tunnels. Each tunnel bore will be equipped with
a terrestrial trunked radio (TETRA) 800-MHz
network to support the metro’s train radio
communications system. This system is
scheduled for completion in the first half
of 2007.
To achieve the desired in-tunnel coverage, the
hybrid solution will use a combination of RFS’s
T-RU series optical repeaters and RADIAFLEX
W I R E L E S S I N D O O R S O L U T I O N S 1716 M I C R O W A V E
Hybrid coverage solut ion for Shanghai Metro Hybr id coverage solut ion for Shanghai Metro
Shanghai’s new Metro Line ‘M9’ comesto life with the help of RFS wirelessindoor solutions, underpinning theline’s vital train radio communicationsystem.
number of optical repeaters to be used. In the
longest sections, we need to put as many as
three repeaters between stations to ensure the
signal remains strong.”
Scheduled for operation in early 2009, the
Shanghai Metro M9 will be the third RFS has
worked on in the city. Over the past few years, RFS’s
customized WINS technology was used to create
a 450-MHz train radio communications system
and public communications system for Shanghai
Metro M1, M2, and their extensions.
US auct ions spawn spectrum shuff leAs the USA re-allocates microwave backhaul spectrum for 3G advanced wirelessservices, incumbent carriers needing to relocate will need flexible radio linksolutions that can be deployed quickly.
Figure 1: The backhaul relocation scenario caused by the impending AWS spectrum auctions
Effective from 1 February 2006, the surcharge
applies to RFS’s FLEXWELL, HELIFLEX, CELLFLEX,
and RADIAFLEX products.
World commodity prices have risen steadily
over the past year, with the cost of copper—
considered to be the lead indicator for commodity
pricing—effectively doubling since mid-2004.
“Materials such as copper, aluminum and oil
are integral in the construction of many of
RFS’s products. The commodity cost impact
has reached a point where RFS can no
longer shield its customers from its
effects,” said Mark Davies, RFS
President Global Transmission Line
Products. “The new RFS ‘raw material
surcharge’ minimizes the impact on
our valued customers, as we all ride
1918
RFS doing dia log atBroadcastAsia 2006At this year’s BroadcastAsia 2006 exhibition,
Radio Frequency Systems will make its people a
focal point. The company’s team of RF broadcast
system experts will be on-hand to discuss current
directions in broadcast technology—particularly
developments to support digital mobile television
services, such as digital
video broadcasting to
handhelds (DVB-H) and
digital multimedia
broadcasting (DMB).
“This is a pivotal time for the industry,” said
Norm Franke, RFS Manager Sales Asia. “Mobile
television is a whole new ballgame, with
questions still being raised about the RF and
delivery aspects of the technology—such as
polarization, frequency bands, indoor coverage
and network topology. BroadcastAsia provides
a forum for the face-to-face discussions that
underpin the adoption of such new technologies.
RFS is here to talk!”
According to Franke, BroadcastAsia is an ideal
opportunity for broadcasters to meet with the
team behind RFS’s world-renowned RF broadcast
systems. “It’s a relaxed atmosphere and, whether
the interest is in mobile television, or digital
terrestrial TV, or digital radio, or analogue
expansions, we can
listen to broadcasters’
specific needs. By
understanding these, we
can work with broadcasters to develop the most
practical solutions—on a case-by-case basis.”
The broadcast division of RFS specializes in the
design, manufacture and installation of end-to-
end broadband antenna systems and associated
multi-channel combining systems.
RFS at BroadcastAsia 2006:
Singapore Expo
20 to 23 June 2006
Hall 8, booth 8K3-01
Fourth edit ion of RFS Products catalogRadio Frequency Systems has released the latest
edition of its comprehensive product catalog,
RFS Products: Infrastructure Solutions. The
fourth edition features over 3,000 RFS products
across eight product ranges.
A new feature of the catalog is the incorporation
of seven ‘industry solutions’ pages. Each of
these double-page spreads features a detailed
system illustration that demonstrates how RFS’s
individual product groups can be integrated
together into end-to-end RF solutions. The
outlined industry applications include: Cell-based
communications; radio link networks; public
mobile radio; in-tunnel wireless communications;
in-building wireless communications; television
and radio broadcasting; and high frequency
and defense communications.
Dr. Q’s noble prize!In an international field of more 400 entries,
Radio Frequency Systems last month garnered a
Silver Award in the prestigious World Media
Festival Awards 2006 for a short film titled
Q’s Wonderful World of Science.
The film—an inventive and amusing mix of
animation and live action—was submitted to
the World Media Festival by well-known German
production company, Ulrich Bock Film, from a
script and concept by advertising agency B & B
Werbeagentur GmbH. Q’s Wonderful World of
Science quirkily introduces the world of wireless
communications and broadcast technology,
and explains RFS’s important role in these
industries. It was created for use at exhibitions,
trade fairs, and for customer demonstrations.
The World Media Festival Awards recognize
excellence in modern communications media,
and are acknowledged internationally as
symbols of the highest production standards in
modern communication.
© C
opyr
ight
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age
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issi
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f pho
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aphe
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High atop Swan Lake Mountain in the
South-Central Oregon Ranges, USA, RFS
SlimLine SU series microwave antennas
bear the brunt of a snowy winter. At an
elevation of 2139 meters (7018 feet),
Swan Lake Mountain can experience
temperatures ranging from -26 degrees
Celsius (-15 degrees Fahrenheit) in the
winter through to 38 degrees Celsius
(100 degrees Fahrenheit) in the summer, and
wind speeds gusting up to 104 kilometers
per hour (65 miles per hour).
Sl imLine onSwan Lake
The printed version of the fourth RFS Products
catalog is available now from your local RFS
sales representative. Alternatively, order a copy
on-line at www.rfsworld.com.
Complementing
each system
illustration is
a description
of how RFS
provides
real-world
solutions to
meet the
specific challenges
faced by each of these wireless industries.
In addition, the new catalog provides
easy-to-access supplementary information,
such as performance charts, explanations of
technical terms and concepts in the technical
information section, plus a detailed model
number index for all products featured.
RFS introduces transmiss ion l ine surcharge scheme
Radio Frequency Systems has announced a new
‘raw material surcharge’ that will be applied to
its world-leading RF transmission line products.
The new surcharge scheme has been developed
in response to a sustained increase in the cost of
the base materials—such as copper,
aluminum, polyethylene and crude
oil—that are involved in the
transmission line production and
supply chain processes.
through these
commodity cost challenges.”
As a leading supplier of wireless infrastructure
solutions for over 30 years, RFS continually
strives to offer superior RF solutions across a
broad range of industry sectors. “The burden of
the recent commodity price rises has reached a
point where this commitment is at risk. The ‘raw
material surcharge’ alleviates this risk, and
ensures that we retain and enhance the premium
product quality and performance that is
synonymous with the CELLFLEX, RADIAFLEX,
FLEXWELL and HELIFLEX brands,” Davies said.
For further information regarding the RFS
transmission line ‘raw material surcharge’, contact
your local RFS sales and distribution office, or the
RFS website at www.rfsworld.com.
I N T O U C H
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