More capacity and availability, less tower load and rack space…

By Dudy Cohen 3 min read

 Well, don’t we all wish for those in our network?

It turns out, though, that these are not trivial requests.

 As we strive to keep pace with the ever-growing demand for greater mobile backhaul capacity, we use wider channels in higher bands (for instance, up to 2GHz channels in E band) that allow us to achieve multi-Gbps capacity. The catch, however, is that such capacity is available for shorter distances. As we try to achieve longer distances with those E-band links, we face reduced availability, which negatively affects our ability to meet our SLA targets. Multiband resolves this challenge by combining a microwave carrier with an E-band carrier, thus achieving both high capacity and high availability for longer distances. We are left, though, with a couple of problems – the need for a shelter or rack space, and the need for two antennas on the pole.

The need for a multiband solution is typical for urban areas employing wireless point-to-point systems. As such, those two requirements often reduce the feasibility of a multiband implementation, as both tower space and shelters (or rack space within the shelter) are often hard to come by in urban sites.

Luckily for us, Ceragon’s multiband implementation allows a single-antenna, all-outdoor solution. This unique implementation is based on a layer-1 carrier bonding implementation in the E-band node, rather than in an indoor unit. So all configurations and MW equipment variants are supported, and an indoor unit is not necessary.

MULTIbAND_Antenna1

Ceragon IP-20C & IP-20E connected to a single multiband antenna

On top of that, the use of a single multiband antenna allows a minimal tower/pole footprint, simplified installation, and reduced tower-related costs.This combines CAPEX and OPEX savings with increased feasibility.

This increased feasibility may result in even greater savings than the direct CAPX and OPEX savings. This is so since the cost of an alternative transmission mode that accommodates the required capacity needs is very high (as it is based on fiber). So, for sights where either shelter space and/or pole space are not available, a split-mount/two-antenna multiband implementation will not be feasible – which then necessitates this ultra-high alternative cost. Ceragon’s multiband solution and multiband antenna both support third-party microwave communications solutions, allowing you greater flexibility and a way to better leverage your installed base.

Ceragon’s unique all-outdoor, single-antenna solution is available today.

To learn more about Ceragon’s multiband solution, download our technical brief

Download now

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