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EE banks on small-antenna networks to fix its rural black spots


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Old 02-12-2014, 00:51
Everything Goes
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Live in the middle of nowhere and can get a signal or perhaps your on Vodafone and your name is David Cameron? Well EE may have the answer for you?

Today, EE unveiled a new "micro networks" initiative that uses small, linked antennas to improve coverage in remote areas. Instead of waiting for traditional masts to be built, local residents can use these discreet base stations to amplify the signal from EE's nearest available tower.

Greater coverage will, of course, benefit EE as it seeks to grow its 4G subscriber base. The concept could also help its case against national roaming, though -- rather than share network infrastructure with its rivals, EE would much prefer to expand its own coverage and eliminate any of its remaining black spots. Unlike what Vodafone is doing with Rural Open Sure Signal, EE's micro networks work without an internet backbone. Considering rural areas are often struggling for a decent broadband connection, this could remove at least one potential obstacle.

EE has trialled the antennas in Sebergham, a small village in Cumbria, and says it's committed to connecting 1,500 rural communities the same way over the next three years. Each micro network should cover between 100 and 150 homes, or 0.5 square mile with three or four antennas. The solution isn't ideal, but residents will likely welcome anything that improves their signal -- at least until EE improves its traditional infrastructure.
http://www.engadget.com/2014/12/01/e...icro-networks/
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Old 02-12-2014, 23:15
countyboy
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Sounds a better approach than Vodafone's.....but the devil will be in the detail.
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