Technology - Wireless - Broadband 7 - Mesh & UHF White Space Rural Networks

Synopsis

Mesh networking and new “cognitive radio” techniques using “white space” UHF TV channels promise new models of wireless broadband service provisions, particularly in rural and remote areas. We review these technologies and consider the prospects for their widespread adoption, particularly in the UHF band as part of the “Digital Dividend” resulting from the digitisation of broadcast television.

Table of Contents

• 1. Synopsis
• 2. Mesh Networks
  • 2.1 Introduction
  • 2.2 Design choices
  • 2.3 VoIP a challenge
  • 2.4 Adaptive Antennae Systems (AAS)
• 3. Research, standards and software
  • 3.1 IETF MANET
  • 3.2 802.11s
• 4. Commercial products
• 5. Routing protocols
• 6. UHF White Space TV channels for WRAN rural networks
  • 6.1 The Digital Dividend
  • 6.2 UHF is ideal for rural networks
  • 6.3 Wireless Innovation Alliance
  • 6.4 Incumbent users - TV stations and wireless microphones
  • 6.5 Low occupancy of UHF TV spectrum
  • 6.6 IEEE 802.22 Cognitive Radio
    • 6.6.1 OFDM with channel bonding
    • 6.6.2 Longer distances with higher powers
    • 6.6.3 Coexistence
    • 6.6.4 Interference with cable TV
  • 6.7 Prospects for the future
• 7. Related reports
  • 7.1 Market reports
  • 7.2 Technology reports