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WiMAX Base Station
Optimiser |
Base Station Optimiser Set To
Generate Substantial Savings For Wireless Network Operators
Other Topics: Citywide Wireless
Networks MANs, Community-Based WiFi
Networks, Indoor WiMAX CPE
ProVision Communications
September 1, 2006
New ProPhecy module identifies the
optimal locations for WiMax and other wireless base stations
Bristol, UK -- Wireless specialist ProVision Communications today
announced the release of ProPhecy ProSite, its new tool for optimising
the siting of wireless base stations. ProSite takes into account
financial as well as wireless propagation constraints, so as to deliver
the most cost effective siting solutions. Using this tool, wireless
network operators can now locate their base stations confident that they
are maximising profitability at the same time as meeting their
requirements for coverage, capacity and quality of service. ProSite is
suitable for planning all types of wireless network, in particular WiMax
and WiFi, but also for DVB-T/H television, and other non-line-of-sight
networks. |
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Planning urban wireless
networks such as WiMax is extremely difficult because of the complexity
of city environments. In a highly competitive market, being able to
deliver the required levels of service with fewer base stations, or from
less expensive rooftops, can be critical for long term profitability.
The problem is multi-dimensional, involving both wireless propagation
(viz. coverage, capacity, link quality etc.) and economic constraints
(capital costs, site rental, etc.). The ProSite optimiser takes all
these constraints into account, and, coupled with a powerful wireless
propagation modelling tool, such as ProVision's ProPhecy software,
calculates the optimal solutions. These are then presented using a
graphical visualisation tool (see right-hand figure), to help the
network operator to compare all the alternative options, before making
an objective decision on the preferred solution.
ProSite can be used to generate solutions for single or multiple base
stations; it optimises over seven dimensions, using flexible
user-definable QoL (Quality of Link) metrics. A range of optimisation
objectives can be set, such as uplink or downlink optimisation, or both.
The tool is capable of building entire city-wide networks, either for
roof-top or street level operation. ProSite has been designed for ease
of use by an occasional user, while including advanced functionality for
the more sophisticated operator. Data input is achieved using a range of
familiar templates and menus, while solutions are displayed in
three-dimensional space using the visualisation tool. The ProSite
optimiser is a stand-alone software package (built in Matlab) and can be
used with ProVision's ProPhecy tools, or with other industry standard
propagation planning tools.
"This new optimiser is a major step forward in delivering cost-effective
wireless networks in urban areas," said Professor Andrew Nix, Director
of Wireless Technology at ProVision Communications, "It's a highly
competitive market out there, so getting your base stations in exactly
the right places can be the difference between profitability and
failure. ProSite considers millions of network topologies, and by
combining the financial and technical constraints of each solution, the
tool identifies the most appropriate solution for the project"
ProSite is available now from ProVision Communications; it is part of
ProVision's ProPhecy range of wireless planning tools.
About ProVision Communications
ProVision Communications (www.provision-comm.com) is one of the UK's
leading consultancies specialising in digital video and wireless
technology; it has particular expertise in delivering high quality video
reliably over wireless bearers. Founded in 2001 as a spin-off from the
University of Bristol, the company has established an impressive
reputation as a provider of innovative design and consultancy services.
Its clients include many major companies in broadcasting,
telecommunications, IT and consumer products. The company is based in
Bristol, UK.
About ProPhecy
ProPhecy is ProVision Communications' state-of-the-art suite of tools
for modelling wireless propagation in urban and semi-urban areas. Unlike
previous generations of wireless planning tools, it provides highly
accurate predictions for non-line-of-sight wireless propagation, making
it particularly suitable for the planning OFDM systems such as WiFi
hotspots, WiMax networks, and DVB-T/H television networks. ProPhecy uses
a unique building and terrain scatter model, including foliage loss
modelling, which scales to enable areas of up to 50km x 50km to be
analysed in true 3D. Designed to work with low cost LIDAR geographic
data, it is much less expensive to operate than traditional systems that
require vector data. ProPhecy builds on more than ten years research and
development at the University of Bristol. |
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