Cellular backhaul
using VectaStar for cellular backhaul
Traditional backhaul network architectures and transmission methods are fast becoming an area of weakness with the introduction of high bandwidth, data-oriented services. Operators require a single platform supporting 2G and 3G base stations, for a low risk migration from TDM-based services to future packet-based services.
Evolving cellular technologies are resulting in higher bandwidth requirements from the existing cellular backhaul networks. The introduction of HSxPA and EVDO has resulted in operators redesigning their transmission systems to cope with the predicted surge in capacity demands.
Operators co-locating 2G and 3G base stations are anticipating upgrades to existing one or two T1/E1 lines to cope with peak demands beyond 16Mbps. As well as the increased traffic requirements per link, operators are driving towards 100% coverage for 2G and 3G networks, resulting in additional sites that need to be connected to the core network. Legacy point-to-point microwave and leased lines are either too slow to deploy, too complicated to plan, or too expensive to justify new low cost micro cell sites.
- The network challenge
- An operator’s backhaul strategy can help to maintain profitability and reduce capital and operational expenditure in a highly competitive marketplace. The challenge is to build a future proof backhaul network that will meet current and future demands from evolving technologies, whilst delivering on cost points to maintain a competitive advantage.
- The VectaStar solution
- Reduced CAPEX burden compared to legacy microwave point-to-point. VectaStar requires fewer radios for an equivalent number of links.
- Reduced OPEX expenditure, as a result of reduced installation costs; radio planning costs, and network support costs.
- More efficient bandwidth utilisation of the backhaul network as a result of the integrated 2G (Abis) and 3G (Iub) optimisation giving up to an 80% link bandwidth saving.
- The ability to cost effectively support high peak data rates at cell sites (HSDPA, HSUPA) as a result of statistical multiplexing within a sector.
- Flexibility with a single backhaul platform, with frequency agnostic management and indoor electronics.
- Seamless migration from 2G to 3G using VectaStar’s range of E1/T1, IMA, IP, ATM, and SDH interfaces.
- Support for other revenue generating services such as Enterprise access, DSLAM backhaul, or WiFi and WiMAX hotspot backhaul.
- Full Base Station and CPE redundancy resulting in 99.999% carrier-class link availability.
- Where next
- Introduction
- Cellular backhaul
- Enterprise Access
- WiMAX backhaul
- Customer references
- Operator’s view
- Maxis “Point-to-multipoint architectures show significant promise in reducing costs for cellular backhaul while meeting the growing demands from broadband upgrades. Cambridge Broadband Networks’ implementation incorporates traffic management features that effectively exploit these architectures. As the VectaStar solution delivers on its promises we expect to continue to expand its use in our cellular networks.”
- MTN “We need to make the best possible use of the scarce radio spectrum. VectaStar’s built in Abis optimisation means that it only transmits the active voice channels, and does so in the most efficient way possible. This creates bandwidth savings that we can use for other services.”
- Vodacom “A single VectaStar base station can simultaneously backhaul traffic from all types of fixed and mobile networks, providing us with a highly cost-effective platform compared to the previously used point-to-point radio systems.”
VectaStar cellular backhaul network
Current Implementations
VectaStar solutions are implemented throughout the world with a broad range of customers:
- Maxis Malaysia, are deploying VectaStar to backhaul 2G and 3G cellular traffic.
- MTN Cameroon, is using VectaStar in the 10.5GHz spectrum to backhaul its cellular network, and provide Enterprise access services for business customers.
- Vodacom Tanzania, have chosen VectaStar in the 10.5GHz spectrum band to backhaul traffic from both cellular and data networks, including GSM, 3G and WiMAX sites.
Many more customers are also experiencing the benefits of deploying and operating a VectaStar network. For more information, and additional references, please contact Cambridge Broadband Networks Limited.
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