Small Cell: Smart Spectrum Saver Solution

By Sean Fitzsimmons

The 2012 CTIA show kicked off in New Orleans with much of the talk turning to the rural market. Top of mind for many carriers is the subject of 700 MHz spectrum and the choices that need to be made with deadlines looming.

Across the tiers, carriers are looking at best practices for implementing, acquiring or at the very least, saving spectrum license. What is apparent from a year ago at this time is the realization of new options for execution. Where before, rural operators were relegated to selling their license or selecting from a short list of economically imposing implementations — technologies such as small cell solutions are rising to the surface. 

Located in the Tower Summit, the Small Cell Forum is holding court — discussing the advantages and opportunities empowered by this nimble technology.

We are seeing small cells being used more and more for data offload (or co-load). The growth of data use in recent years is astronomical and small cell provides a sensible solution. In addition, significant CAPEX savings can be realized by using small cells to help deliver initial 4G service coverage, thus deferring the purchase and deployment of more expensive macrocells. A large range, high-power coverage network can be deployed using macro sites and then as subscribers sign up for 4G service, they can be provided a small cell at home and at work to allow for the optimum user experience.

CHR recognizes this trend and fundamental shift in network topologies for our customers. Small cell may certainly be a smart choice for carriers seeking to quickly and affordably save their spectrum. From strategic planning and network design to managed services and network monetization — we enable our clients to select the deployment and business model that best fits their unique needs while leveraging the economies of scale, best practices and innovative technologies of the rapidly evolving wireless business. 

Sean Fitzsimmons is executive vice president, client solutions, CHR Solutions.

Looking for more? Click here for B/OSS' ongoing coverage of CTIA Wireless 2012 and here for V2M's coverage of the event. And check out V2M Editor-in-Chief Tara Seals' Twitter feed for her take from New Orleans.