Author
Ray Butler
Sector-splitting and adding new sites are overwhelmingly the most commonly used methods for adding
capacity to wireless networks. As you know, operators are turning to a small cells approach more and more. Distributed antenna systemsare the most effective small cell solutions deployed today. Micro and metro cells will be essential next steps in the small cell evolution. I think macro capacity solutions that serve high data traffic areas will remain the best investments through 2013. But the industry will need more small cell solutions—including higher power femto and pico solutions—as part of a total small cell portfolio after that. Of course backhaul will need to be addressed for any small cell deployment.
There are some practical considerations to take into account in any small cell deployment. One of them is how to achieve maximum data throughput in areas with high data usage by customers. Considerations here involve improving the signal level and reducing noise and interference so that all data packets can be successfully received. Performance degrades with distance from the cell, so RF pattern shaping and signal-to-interference control needs to be optimum.
Another often very frustrating consideration involves acquiring approval to install small cell sites. Regulatory processes can be time and resource consuming. The cost to access a site can often far exceed the cost to install the equipment. Concealment and aesthetics also require attention. Licensing bodies can require certain aesthetic designs while poorly looking sites can face additional costs.
I will be speaking about issues to consider in small cell implementation at the upcoming LTE North America 2012 conference in Dallas,Texas. I present for Track 4 on Wednesday, November 14 from 12:35–12:55 p.m. I look forward to discussing small cell deployment considerations with other folks from the industry. Before then, leave a comment if there are any major questions you have about small cell deployments. Maybe I can help provide some guidance.
