Small cells: Small, but valuable addition to 4G LTE network
Verizon Wireless has announced today, May 21, that it will be begin deploying small cells into its 4G LTE network during the second half of 2013, working with network vendors including Alcatel-Lucent.
There’s been lots of buzz in the wireless world about small cells – short range mobile cell sites used to complement larger macro cells, or cell towers. With mobile data traffic expected to grow 18-fold between 2011 and 2016 according to Cisco, small cells enable mobile network operators to strategically add capacity to high traffic areas and extend coverage to hard-to-reach locations and indoor sites.
As part of an overall 4G LTE network, they help deliver the quality, reliability, footprint and capacity to accommodate new applications, the burgeoning use of video and the popularity of smartphones and tablets with larger screens and sharper images.
Verizon Wireless will begin deploying small cells into its 4G LTE network during the second half of 2013, working with network vendors including Alcatel-Lucent. For Verizon, small cells are part of a balanced approach to network capacity. Its 4G LTE network already covers more than 95 percent of the company’s 3G network footprint and the company announced Monday the launch of six new markets in May, bringing its high-speed mobile broadband service to a total of 497 U.S. markets. Verizon will also increase network capacity by adding macro cell sites and using the AWS (Advance Wireless Services) spectrum acquired in 2012.
Small cells will be used to primarily enhance localized capacity and coverage, such as in a business district or shopping mall where there is concentrated traffic. They will also complement Distributed Antenna Systems that allow for the availability of robust 4G LTE coverage to customers in challenging coverage areas, like basements of public buildings or large stadiums.
About the size of a mini refrigerator, small cells are generally deployed on lamp posts, utility poles and building walls. Like macro cells, they must be connected to the core wireless network and may pose operational challenges ranging from site acquisition and leasing to regulation and permitting by local authorities. While not a panacea, they are a valuable addition to a 4G LTE network, part of a balanced network strategy.
About Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU)
The long-trusted partner of service providers, enterprises and governments around the world, Alcatel-Lucent is a leading innovator in the field of networking and communications technology, products and services. The company is home to Bell Labs, one of the world’s foremost research centers, responsible for breakthroughs that have shaped the networking and communications industry
Alcatel-Lucent innovations are regularly recognized by international institutions for their positive impact on society. In 2012 and for the second year running, Alcatel-Lucent was named one of the Thomson Reuters Top 100 Global Innovators, recognition for the company’s continued addition to its world-class patent portfolio, one of the largest in the telecom industry. Alcatel-Lucent has also been recognized for its sustainability performance. In 2012 the company was ranked Technology Supersector Leader by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index. Through its innovations, Alcatel-Lucent is making communications more sustainable, more affordable and more accessible as we pursue our mission of Realizing the Potential of a Connected World
With operations throughout the world, Alcatel-Lucent is a local partner with global reach. The Company achieved revenues of Euro 14.4 billion in 2012 and is incorporated in France and headquartered in Paris
