Enhancing Mission-Critical Connectivity with Advanced Microwave Technology
A major North American service provider was responsible for an extensive fiber and microwave transport network covering hundreds of sites and approximately 2,000 microwave links. The provider needed to upgrade its infrastructure to meet new regulatory standards and operational demands. To enhance its mission-critical connectivity, the provider sought to transition from the 4 GHz to the 11 GHz band.
The service provider chose Nokia’s Wavence portfolio for this complex upgrade, which involved careful planning and execution, particularly due to the rugged and hard-to-reach terrain. Microwave radio technology was essential, as deploying fiber was either impractical or too costly.
Nokia’s Wavence portfolio, notably the UBT-T XP units, proved highly effective and adaptable, addressing the project’s unique challenges. The service provider modernized their microwave transport network by successfully navigating these difficulties and adhering to a tight timeline. This upgrade ensured the continuity of mission-critical operations and supported the broader digital transformation of industries. The collaboration between the service provider and Nokia highlights the potential of innovative technology solutions to overcome complex obstacles and drive future advancements in communication infrastructure.
The Challenge | Shifting Existing Microwave Networks To Higher Frequencies
In February 2020, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated reallocating 280 MHz from the 3.7-4.2 GHz spectrum band for 5G services, compelling existing microwave networks to shift to higher frequencies. For the North American service provider, this meant migrating their microwave network from the 4 GHz band to the 11 GHz band. The network was a critical component of their infrastructure, supporting essential operations that could not afford any disruptions.
The migration project involved several complex tasks: identifying and removing outdated equipment, installing new radio units and towers, and overcoming the physical and logistical challenges posed by the mountainous terrain and extreme weather conditions. Higher frequency bands, such as 11 GHz, require more powerful transmitters to maintain the same link distances, adding to the complexity of the upgrade.
The Solution | Nokia’s Wavence Microwave Transport Portfolio
Nokia was chosen for this pivotal project due to its expertise and the capabilities of its Wavence microwave transport portfolio. The solution included the Wavence Ultra Broadband Transceiver Twin with Extended Power (UBT-T XP) radio units designed to operate across frequency bands from 6 GHz to 11 GHz. These units provide high output power, which is essential for covering long distances in challenging environments such as mountainous terrain.
The Wavence UBT-T XP radios were deployed in a split-mount configuration, facilitating easier installation and maintenance. This setup also helped manage the limited space and harsh conditions at the installation sites. Nokia’s support extended beyond just providing equipment; they worked closely with the customer to determine the best deployment strategies and effectively managed the tight project timeline.
The Results | Quick Project Completion, Enhanced Connectivity, and Improved Performance
Despite the harsh winter conditions and difficult terrain, the project was completed in just two months. The successful upgrade to the 11 GHz band provided several benefits:
Enhanced Connectivity
The new microwave transport solution delivers high-capacity and reliable connectivity, crucial for the service provider’s mission-critical operations.
Improved Performance
The Wavence UBT-T XP radios enabled better performance with smaller antennas, reducing site footprints and increasing wind load resistance.
Cost Efficiency
The solution offered a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) by leveraging smaller, lighter antennas and efficient equipment.
The upgraded network now supports enhanced digital access for various industries and enterprises, contributing to the broader digitalization goals and a move toward a carbon-neutral future. Nokia’s Wavence technology proved to be a robust solution for the challenges of remote and rugged deployment environments, reaffirming its role in providing reliable backhaul for diverse communication needs.
Download The Nokia Case Study >>
About Infinity Technology Solutions
Infinity Technology Solutions specializes in broadband and critical communications infrastructure development. We help our channel partners create and deploy private wireless, microwave backhaul, IP/MPLS, and optical networking technologies.
For more information, give us a call or fill out the contact form below.
