4G
Mobile operators have doubled their network capacity every three years or so to keep pace with demand, most recently with LTE. But LTE and other technologies are reaching the theoretical limits of spectral efficiency. To avoid the two more expensive options for increasing 4G capacity – deploying smaller cells and acquiring more spectrum — mobile operators will rely on beamforming to meet rising data demand.
Despite wide use of remote electronic down-tilt, mobile operators spend millions in truck rolls to optimize cell site coverage patterns. That’s because the optimal coverage pattern for a cell is rarely sector shaped and never static. HBF’s Directivity-on-Demand™ steers coverage where and when it’s needed, including compensating for overloaded or non-functional cells nearby using the extended range afforded by narrow beams. This way, HBF slashes operating expenses by delaying densification, i.e., small cells, mitigating intercell interference, and delivering on the promise of self-organizing (and optimizing) networks.
5G
5G radio access networks (RAN) are seeking additional capacity at higher frequency bands like millimeter wave. Beamforming will be necessary to overcome path loss, small cell pole sway, window penetration (see image below) and distance limitations. Only HBF can accomplish this with the C-SWaP and aesthetic, i.e., low profile and surface-conformal, requirements that mobile operators and their municipal partners require. For mobile operators who offer fixed wireless services, HBF delivers these benefits in one network. Read about how Pivotal’s Echo 5GTM beamforming repeater addresses the biggest obstacle to serving fixed wireless 5G customers – penetrating window glass.
