User's Guide Part 1

PureWave Quantum 6600 User Guide v2.1
Page 14
2 PureWave Quantum Base Station Overview
2.1 Introduction - What is a Compact Base Station?
At PureWave, we believe that true broadband data networks must roll out in a completely different
manner than the traditional, low-throughput cellular networks of yesterday. The traditional cellular
network paradigm of colossal “macro” Base stations and large cell radii developed from the need for
high-coverage networks to carry low-bandwidth voice and messaging traffic. However, as the demand
for data-based applications has grown, networks have quickly become congested, necessitating new
wireless standards designed specifically for high-speed broadband data. Furthermore, as spectrum is
always a scarce and expensive resource, the need for improved frequency re-use techniques has
become more important than ever.
The clear solution to this is higher-efficiency wireless standards, such as IEEE 802.16e Mobile WiMAX,
and more flexible cell sizes. Where medium and high population density exists, cell sizes should be small
to enable increased spectral re-use, thereby ensuring that each subscriber enjoys a sufficient amount of
throughput. In such cases it may be necessary to deploy Base stations on utility poles, flag poles,
rooftops, small buildings and walls. This necessitates small, pleasant form-factor Base stations that can
accept a variety of antenna types, both omni-directional and directional. Such Base stations are often
referred to as “Pico”. Because wired backhaul may not always be available in some such locations, it also
suggests the need for wireless backhaul options.
On the other hand, in rural areas with lower population densities, it makes more economic sense to
deploy fewer Base stations on higher towers or buildings and usually with higher transmit power. This is
closer to the traditional cellular approach and typically involves large, expensive and power-hungry
“macro” or “micro” Base stations, often with split designs requiring both indoor and tower-top
electronics. Wherever indoor components are required an operator must obtain an air-conditioned
shelter, which adds significantly to the continual operating expenditures of such a deployment and limits
the deployment location.
PureWave has taken a revolutionary approach in the development of exclusively “Compact” Base
stations. A compact Base station shares the similar form-factor and cost of a Pico Base station, but with
the performance of a Macro Base station. It is a zero-footprint device that can be fully co-located with
its antennas. It is the best of all worlds and can be flexibly deployed in Pico, Macro, and Micro type
deployments.
Welcome to the Revolution!