September 19, 2018 The emerging wireless world is patiently waiting for fifth generation mobile networks (5G) infrastructure to elevate wireless network capabilities. In response, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) just approved an order to speed up 5G deployment and reduce local fees. This will require many providers to upgrade hardware and base stations, consider new wireless telecommunication installations or replace existing antennas.
In the News: How Does the Latest FCC Action Impact Wireless Telecommunication Installations?
On September 26, 2018, the Federal Communications Commission passed an order requiring cities to quickly approve or deny wireless carriers’ requests to deploy 5G cell installation.
“By updating our rules to make it easier to install wireless infrastructure, the Commission is taking another critical step to promote U.S. leadership in 5G wireless services,” FCC Chairman Ajit Pai wrote earlier this month. The plan will limit fees from local governments for utility pole attachments and help to speed up the process for approving new infrastructure.
While the goal for rapid deployment of 5G is shared, these new rules come with conflicting opinions (and much criticism). Many states have already passed laws limiting the fees localities can charge to process construction and permit applications for small cells. And once this new order goes into effect, local governments will be required to make a decision on small cell deployments within 60 days for retrofit installations or 90 days for new builds.
Small Cells and Wireless Telecommunication Installations
As defined by CTIA, the U.S. wireless industry association, “A small cell installation consists of small radio equipment and antennas that can be placed on structures such as street lights, the sides of buildings, or poles. They are about the size of a pizza box, and are essential for transmitting data to and from a wireless device.” Generating less power by collecting and transmitting short range signals, small cells have gained ground to deploy 5G technology.
Small cell solutions (SCS), as their name implies, are smaller than traditional rooftop wireless telecommunication installations. But both towers and small cells play an important role in delivering wireless services consumers rely on.
While towers are good for voice, their data signal can degrade over distance. This is where small cells come in. SCS uses multiple nodes, resulting in a direct line of sight to an antenna and faster data speeds.
Towers are best used in low-density populations. Small cells are an ideal complement for dense areas with high-capacity needs.
Which one is right for your application? The solution depends on your community, environment and demands. Often, the answer is both, as many shorter towers will need to be adapted from, or added, in order to densify the network.
KMB Wireless Telecommunication Installations
From the Internet of Things to public safety communication, sectors across the nation must get ready for these extremely fast mobile data connections.
At KMB Design Group, we provide wireless telecommunication installation solutions to help clients stay ahead of building connectivity infrastructure and enhance consumer experiences. Celebrating 10 years of continued success, we have been a leading provider of engineering technology upgrades and overlay services for AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless and Sprint. As a full-service telecom engineering provider licensed in the United States and Europe, we’re committed to delivering quality service, reliable support and innovative, responsive designs across multiple industries.
Contact us to learn more about KMB’s wireless telecommunication installation services that deliver reliable results.
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