Abstract
The provision of adequate broadband access to communities in sparsely populated rural areas has in the past been severely restricted. In this article, we present a wireless broadband access testbed running in the Scottish Highlands and Islands which is based on a relay network of low-power base stations. Base stations are powered by a combination of renewable sources creating a low cost and scalable solution suitable for community ownership. The use of the 5 GHz bands allows the network to offer large data rates and the testing of ultra high frequency "white space" bands provides expansive coverage whilst reducing the number of base stations or required transmission power. We argue that the reliance on renewable power and the intelligent use of frequency bands makes this approach an economic green radio technology which can address the problem of rural broadband access.
Highlights
Broadband internet access is regarded as a key enabling technology in both developed and developing economies
This article reports on the HopScotch project running in Scotland which at its core features the deployment of a green low power solution for rural broadband access
Low-power and low-cost WiFi based radio equipment allows renewable energy “WindFi” base stations to be operated by renewable sources, reducing operating costs, fuel use, and eliminating the requirement of access to the electricity grid
Summary
Broadband internet access is regarded as a key enabling technology in both developed and developing economies. Systems and network design, CR and off-grid renewable energy sources can be combined to create an affordable yet powerful wireless network capable of delivering high bandwidth content and services. By setting up a WiFi based network in a community we can overlay a whitespace test network This will aid the study and comparison of access technologies, serve as a testbed for the investigation and development of TV white space (TVWS) links which have the potential to provide more comprehensive cover than existing fixed wireless bands in a rural setting, and further the potential of flexibility offered by designing and reviewing cognitive radio techniques. The use of UHF frequencies will allow for greater coverage from the base station, especially in challenging radio terrain as detailed, at the expense of a limited channel bandwidth and throughput.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
