Chapter 5: Radio Access Technology

Chapter 5: Radio Access Technology

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Overview

This chapter describes the radio systems that may form part of an access network linking customers to the core network. These systems may provide the complete link or they may be used in conjunction with copper and optical-fiber transmission systems. Satellite communication systems will not be included here because they are not normally considered to be part of an access network.

Both mobile (cellular) communications systems and cordless systems are discussed, since this helps to clarify the relationships between them, but cordless systems may have a greater impact on access networks, since this technology is less expensive and has immediate applications. Although neither local multipoint distribution service (LMDS) at 28 GHz nor licensed millimeter-wave service (LMWS) at 48 GHz is discussed here, both should be noted for the future, since they could provide competition for cabled video and telephony services, at least in North America.

5.1 Background

Radio links have been used for many years to connect customers to the telecommunications network, particularly when there have been difficulties using a traditional copper link. Sometimes radio links have been used for expediency, especially for business customers. In the case of expedient deployment, the intention has been for the link to be replaced when it becomes feasible to use a copper link instead, and the radio equipment is then recoverable for expedient use elsewhere.

Closely related to this expedient use of a radio link is the permanent use of the...

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