In mobile networks, small cell backhaul planning consists in defining the connection of the small cells to the mobile network core, to internet and other services. It enables mobile network operators design links between small cells and the mobile network backhaul, including selecting the appropriate connection technology.
Small Cell Backhaul Design Challenges for MNOs
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) consider small cell backhaul design more challenging than macrocell backhaul design, because small cells are typically in hard-to-reach, near-street-level urban locations rather than in more open, above-rooftop locations and carrier grade connectivity must be provided at much lower cost per bit. Small cell backhaul planning consists in selecting the appropriate technology to connect small cells to the backhaul (fibre, microwave link, nLOS/NLOs) and setting the connection parameters. Small cell backhaul planning is part of the mobile network backhaul planning activities carried out by MNOs to connect sites and cells to the mobile network core.
Integrating microwave backhaul for small cells with Atoll
Atoll Microwave is our point-to-point and point-to-multipoint backhaul planning and optimisation software. It takes into account backhaul accessibility in its site selection process for small cells to make sure that selected sites not only deliver the desired coverage, throughput and capacity but can also easily be connected to the backhaul. Atoll Microwave provides wireless operators with comprehensive transmission link planning features, including non or near line of sight (NLOS/nLOS) conditions that can occur with small cell sites.
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