Base Stations in Remote Locations

Altobridge says that it has deployed a base station in a remote location that is only accessible by 4x4 vehicles. Altobridge engineers installed the system in 24 hours, trained local personnel in a single afternoon and left the site in the hands of local staff. The network is now being monitored remotely via the company's Network Operations Centre (NOC). Based on the company's patented AM Gateway Platform, the deployment is in support of an isolated business enterprise.

The name of the operator or the exact location were not revealed however.

Designed to deliver cost-effective, personal mobile services for communities with low numbers of inhabitants - as few as100 - the Altobridge system provides viable and efficient OPEX for operators at this low level of user base.

A deployment of this type typically follows a first phase laboratory evaluation, during which interoperability with an operator's existing GSM network elements and VSAT satellite equipment are tested. This includes basic GSM features, such as voice and SMS, as well as integrating and testing GPRS. The system supports both packet-based (IP) and circuit-switched channels. The system ensures a very efficient use of the satellite bandwidth - voice calls using as little as 6.3kBit/s - which is the unique and compelling differentiator of the Altobridge solution.

The network configuration comprises the server-based AM Gateway Platform, BTS and power amplifier located in a site office. The system typically is powered using the site generator and optionally a UPS providing 24-hour service.

Mike Fitzgerald, CEO of Altobridge, said, "Our Remote GSM system offers the ideal solution for isolated enterprises, such as mining, logging, oil and gas operations, plantation and, of course, village communities, in terms of both cost-effectiveness and technological superiority over alternative communications options. Our engineers on the ground have done a magnificent job in extremely rugged and demanding circumstances, in establishing and handing over this system to local operatives within an extremely short timeframe.

"Whether in Africa, Asia or Latin America, populations outside the coverage of existing macro networks stand to benefit from these developments, as we are applying the same proven and operational core technology, as is used in our RCC solution for first responders in North America, and our successful aeronautical and maritime solutions in use around the world," Fitzgerald concluded."

Posted to the site on 20th October 2006