The Radio Frequency Systems Bulletin
1st quarter 2003 Indian wireless takes to the air LA broadcasters opt for broadband New Optimizer® antenna series Multi-carrier/multi-band in-building system CDMA escalates in China
The Clear Choice in Wireless™
12 Confined Coverage
3 Editorial
Tunnels gain communications for fast train in Spain
Flexible solutions inspire wireless confidence
Radio Frequency Systems
4 What’s New
14 Microwave
New Optimizer® antenna series addresses global 2G/3G challenge Lightweight polymer 3G filters 450 MHz combiner integrates performance and reliability RFS solves multi-carrier/multi-band in-building RF riddle
WorldWideWeb: http://www.rfsworld.com
Microwave backbone provides link for Turkish operator
Publisher: Jörg Springer Executive Editor/Editor Asia Pacific: Peter Walters Editor EMAI: Alan Walp Editor Americas: Ann Polanski Managing Editor: Dr Ellen Gregory Production Editor: Regine Krüger Art Director: Matthias Schwedt
15 Broadcast LA broadcasters opt for broadband Indonesian TV diversifies and reaches out
18 In Touch
8 Regional Focus
Swiss tunnels ride with RADIAFLEX® Broadband at NAB 2003 India expo for RFS RFS world: the search continues RFS Products 2003
Indian wireless takes to the air
10 Cellular CDMA escalates in China Tunisia celebrates new cellular service
Authors: Allan Alderson, Dr Ellen Gregory, Zach Phillipps Photos: Blickpunkt Photodesign, Alexandre Foin, Tony Koopmans, Uwe Mensing, Shelton Muller, RFS archives, Antonio Sanchez-Lopez, Morris Trabsky, Erik Wille, Nick Wymant, stock images on cover, page 8 and 18 from GettyImages.
12 Feeder Systems
Cover image: GettyImages
Seamless transition to 3G with RFS CELLFLEX® ‘A’ series
Cover art: Matthias Schwedt Print: Print Design, Minden Layout and Graphics: inform advertising, Hannover
2
Editorial Services: Relate Technical Communications, Melbourne
INDEX 10
4
Indian wireless takes to the air After a decade of fast-paced liberalization, the Indian wireless market has emerged as the world’s fastest growing. In the quest for true end-to-end solutions, Indian wireless operators are turning to RFS.
Optimizer®
New antenna series addresses global 2G/3G challenge RFS’s new Optimizer® cellular antenna series offers the premium performance demanded by today’s mature second generation (2G) and emerging third generation (3G) cellular networks.
CDMA escalates in China As the number of subscribers to China’s CDMA network escalates, RFS supplies local operators and OEMs with RF infrastructure in support of China Unicom’s critical network expansion.
8
15 6
RFS solves multi-carrier/multi-band in-building RF riddle The new RFS ‘high-end in-building solution’ provides a reliable and cost-effective means of realizing multi-carrier/multi-band RF coverage within larger public buildings.
LA broadcasters opt for broadband Mount Wilson, Los Angeles’ premiere broadcast site, will soon house a sophisticated RFS broadband solution, with antenna patterns especially sculpted to limit the TV signals reaching the Mexican border.
IMPRINT
F l e x i b l e s o l u t i o n s i n s p i re w i re l e s s c o n f i d e n c e A particularly interesting paper published in
future of these next-generation wireless
are drawn from product sectors that our
the closing days of 2002 provides an
technologies. Radio Frequency Systems
company has long excelled in, yet all
incisive view of the wireless communica-
concurs with this optimism, as it is founded
represent a complete rejuvenation of these
tions world that we enter in 2003. Prepared
on an historically proven fact—that needs
products to ensure they are state-of-the art
by research group Forrester Techstrategy
inspire solutions.
and tailor-made to fit today’s needs.
Research and entitled ‘3G’s belated break-
Solutions can and will come forward to
These new products have already generated
even’, the paper in part presents the
overcome the challenges currently facing
enormous
surveyed opinions of a number of European
these emerging wireless technologies.
network operators, OEMs and installers.
cellular operators. Of interest is the cellular
Interestingly, these solutions aren’t always
We will formally present these and many
operators’ fascinating perspective on the
direct answers to the most obvious
more RFS innovations to visitors at the
third generation (3G) cellular market—one
challenges. Many solutions will be born
major industry exhibitions at which RFS is
of quite blatant optimism, set against an
of a lateral perspective on the problem at
scheduled to participate in the coming
acknowledged uncertainty as to just how
hand,
technical
weeks and months (most notably CTIA in
these networks and services will come
alternatives. The coming six months will see
New Orleans, CeBIT in Hannover, and NAB
together.
RFS launch some important examples of
in Las Vegas). We look forward to seeing
and
offer
refreshing
Dr Jörg Sellner Chairman of RFS
enthusiasm
from
wireless
EDITORIAL
The paper reports that almost 90 per cent
you in your part of the world, and
of the UMTS license holders interviewed are
demonstrating
confident they will have their 3G networks
provide flexible solutions to inspire RF
up and running by first-quarter 2003, and
confidence—and profitability!
that they are equally confident about the
this type of solution, where our primary
commercial future of 3G. In the same
objective has been to provide wireless
breath, the interviewees admit their 3G
operators with premium deployment and
plans are largely guesswork, and that issues
optimization flexibility. Such flexibility will
such as handset availability remain a big
allow the next-generation wireless operator
question.
to realise optimal RF coverage quickly at
This ‘confidence in the face of uncertainty’
minimal
seems to be a recurring theme right across
performance
today’s wireless technology industry—from
uncertainty and opportunity.
W-LAN through to broadband service
The pages of this issue of STAY CONNECTED
deployment and digital television. While all
showcase a number of these important RFS
these new markets may indeed be untried,
innovations, such as the new Optimizer
the technology still emerging and ‘killer
premium performance cellular antenna
apps’ still to take shape, the major players
range, the CELLFLEX ‘A’ series feeder cable
express an almost unshakeable belief in the
and the high-end in-building solution. All
cost—essential attributes
RF in
just
how
interface times
of
Jörg Sellner
RFS
can
3
New Optimizer® antenna s e r i e s a d d re s s e s g l o b a l 2G/3G challenge
4
RFS Optimizer® global mount system.
A new range of premium-grade cellular
including an advanced broadband variable
antenna solutions—the Optimizer series—
tilt cellular antenna, a selection of high
will be launched by Radio Frequency
performance fixed-tilt cellular antennas,
Systems in 2003. Scheduled for progressive
and the new Optimizer global mounting
release over the coming months, the
system.
Optimizer
the
The new Optimizer GSM 1800 / PCS
premium performance attributes demanded
1900 / UMTS broadband cellular antenna
by today’s mature second generation (2G)
solutions (APXV18-2065XXL series) support
and emerging third generation (3G)
a broad frequency range of 1710 MHz
cellular networks.
through to 2170 MHz, with gain ranging
The concept for the new range was
from 17.5 to 19.2 dBi. As a result, they are
inspired by RFS’s popular and well-estab-
ideally suited to both European or Asian
lished Optimizer antenna launched in the
GSM 1800 operators migrating to UMTS,
USA, explained Patrick Nobileau, RFS Vice
and
WHAT ’S N EW
The ‘first release’ selection of RFS’s high performance Optimizer® antenna family will be launched during March 2003 at both the CTIA Wireless 2003 and CeBIT exhibitions:
RFS’s new Optimizer® broadband cellular antenna (APXV18-2065XXL series), shown here fitted with the Optimizer® RT antenna control unit.
President Base Station Antenna Systems.
CeBIT, 12 to 19 March, 2003. Hall 13, Stand No. C57, Hannover Exhibition Grounds, Hannover, Germany.
The new Optimizer broadband variable tilt
antenna
series
offers
“RFS has decided to extend the Optimizer
North
concept—a superior antenna we initially
a comprehensive range of new fixed and variable tilt antennas for 65- and horizontal
beamwidth.
PCS
1900
antenna is a high gain (17.5 dBi), 1.3 metre cellular antenna solution, providing a
CTIA Wireless 2003, 17 to 19 March, 2003. Booth No. 5931, Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
introduced with variable electrical tilt—into
90-degree
American
The RFS Optimizer® fixed tilt antenna for GSM 900 (APX906515L) or CDMA 800 (APX866515L).
nominal
65-degree
beamwidth,
and
featuring a highly-aerodynamic and stylish shaped fibreglass radome.
All
Complementing the Optimizer broadband
critical performance parameters have been
operators
Federal
will be a selection of RFS Optimizer fixed
optimized: not just with regards to tilt,
Communications Commission’s recently an-
tilt antennas: the APX 866515L, which is
but also gain, side lobe suppression,
nounced 1710-1755 MHz / 2110-2155 MHz
designed for CDMA 800 applications, and
front-to-back ratio, null fill and so on.”
3G cellular spectrum allocation.
the APX906515L for GSM 900 networks.
RFS Optimizer antennas feature upper side
The
the
Available in zero and six degree downtilt
lobe suppression typically better than
Optimizer broadband antenna enables
models, both incorporate all the features
20 dB across the entire tilt and frequency
operators to focus the antenna beam
and benefits of this important new
range, and significantly increased gain.
down into inner-urban cellular traffic
antenna family.
Optimizer antennas incorporate null fill,
hot
emerging
Also incorporated in the first release, will be
and all variable tilt Optimizer antennas feature
3G cellular applications. Unlike competing
the new Optimizer global mount system—
a uniquely wide 0 to 10 degrees of
broadband
the
an advanced mechanical antenna mounting
continously adjustable variable electrical tilt.
Optimizer broadband antenna’s enhanced
system offering optimal mounting flexibility.
A selection of ‘first release’ Optimizer
side lobe suppression extends across
Mount options include direct mount,
antennas will be launched in March 2003,
its entire tilt range.
azimuth adjustment, beam tilt and scissor kit.
moving
extended
spots—a
into
tilt
must
cellular
the
range
in
of
products,
L i g h t w e i g h t p o l y m e r 3 G f i l t e rs In support of high-performance lightweight
“The polymer filters are injection moulded,
integrated products can be produced
cellular base station components, Radio
with ten times as many units produced
without the need for secondary machining.
Frequency Systems has developed an air
from a single mould before re-tooling is
As with aluminium filters, the polymer
cavity filter made predominantly from
required,” said RFS Area Product Manager
components are then silver-plated for con-
plastic. The world’s first polymer-based
Erik Wille. “Complex shapes for highly
ductivity purposes and RF-performance.”
3G filter exhibits identical RF properties to
The polymer filters are of identical shape
its aluminium counterpart, while having
and size to RFS’s conventional aluminium
just half the weight.
filters, ensuring a mechanical fit with the
The new polymer filters are ideal for use in
company’s full range of RF conditioning
tower-mounted base station applications,
components. Mechanical stability and high
as their light weight leads to numerous
precision tooling are ensured by glass fibre
installation advantages. The first such
and mineral filler reinforcement within the
application is RFS’s new tower mounted
polymer matrix, while optimum thermal
amplifier
mobile
expansion properties are achieved by a
telecommunications systems (UMTS). The
unique blend of polymer materials. RFS has
dual TMA weighs in at just 2.7 kilograms—
also performed comprehensive environ-
more than 50 per cent lighter than most
mental tests to ensure high product quality
others on the market.
and long lifetime.
(TMA)
for
universal
The world’s first polymer-based 3G filter: left, silver plated finished component; right, raw polymer filter body.
WHAT ’S N EW
4 5 0 M H z c o m b i n e r i n t e g ra t e s p e r f o r m a n c e a n d re l i a b i l i t y The new SJD series of coaxial cavity-ferrite
isolator loads. This means that the units
transmitter combiner is now available from
have higher reliability and a higher overall
Radio Frequency Systems. Designed for use
bandwidth—just four SJD models are
in the 403 to 512 MHz frequency band,
required to cover the entire 403 to
used globally for land mobile and trunk
512 MHz band.
performance, while the combiner’s high
radio applications, the SJD combiner’s fully
Fundamentally a four channel combiner,
isolation
integrated design offers improved band-
the SJD series can be easily converted into
intermodulation.
width, performance and reliability over
an eight channel unit with the addition of
The integrated isolator loads can handle
conventional units using interconnecting
an optional harness kit for linking two
up to 150 Watts forward and reflected
cables.
four-channel units.
power per channel. In addition, integrated
The SJD combiner utilizes low-loss, low
The SJD series features a particularly high
sampling ports in the SJD combiners permit
intermodulation dual-stage isolators with
‘Q’ or quality of cavity response, embodied
in-service diagnostics and tuning, making
integrated coaxial cavities. Rather than the
by a high attenuation of unwanted
the units very ‘field friendly’ for mainte-
combiner comprising individual cavities
frequencies, while the selected channel
nance.
connected via coaxial cable, a single cavity
passes through each cavity. The low-
optimal performance over power and
is divided into four integrated cavities with
loss
temperature fluctuations.
characteristic
maximizes
system
between
Precise
channels
compensation
minimizes
ensures
5
RFS solves multi-carrier/multi-band in-building RF riddle In response to the increasingly complex RF
high-end
in-building
coverage requirements found within large
co-located RF operators to actually share the
combiners offers band-specific combining
buildings such as airports, shopping malls
in-building RF infrastructure within the
of up to four carriers per frequency band.
and stadiums, Radio Frequency Systems has
premise.
The 19-inch rack-based MCC series sup-
developed a fully modular and scalable
substantial installation cost savings for
ports
in-building RF solution set. The new RFS
in-building operators, plus the ongoing
TETRA 380, CDMA 800, GSM 900,
‘high-end in-building solution’ provides a
system reliability advantages of a largely
GSM 1800 and UMTS 2100—the largest
reliable and cost-effective means of realizing
passive RF system.”
selection on the market today. Connectivity
The
solution
benefits
are
permits
two-fold:
multi-carrier/multi-band RF coverage within
The
MCC
five
series
of
commonly
multi-channel
used
bands—
to the base transmission station (BTS) is via
larger public buildings.
Combining components
separate high-power transmit/receive ports
The product set is a unique mix of passive
The RF combining aspect of the new RFS in-
for each carrier, with all signals combined to
and active technologies that accommodate
building system comprises two families of
a common duplex output port. Each MCC
a global range of cellular frequency bands.
combiner units—the MCC series band-
provides an additional RF interface to link
This includes TETRA 380, CDMA 800,
specific
fibre optic converters.
multi-channel
combiner
suite,
GSM 900, GSM 1800 and UMTS 2100, with other bands such as Cellular 800, SMR 800 Figure 1: Multi-carrier/multi-band combiner assembly (head end).
6
WHAT ’S N EW and PCS 1900 to be added in mid-2003. The new RFS high-end in-building system is Figure 2: The fibre optic extension network permits the in-building system to extend over a distance of up to 20 kilometres.
founded on two key component groups: a selection of RF multi-channel combining technologies and broadband passive distribution systems, plus an advanced suite of fibre-optic components that enable distribution across particularly large campuses. The new product set is designed to enable operators and building owners to meet the growing
demand
for
multi-carrier/
multi-band RF services in large buildings, explained Dr Peter Raabe, RFS Global Product Manager, Wireless Distributed Communication Systems. “The traditional ‘one RF system per service or carrier’ can be
and
combiner
RFS’s new broadband BBC series of
prohibitively costly when used to support a
suite. These are complemented by RFS’s
distributive combiners provides high
multiplicity of carriers and bands within a
world-renowned RADIAFLEX broadband
flexibility, as the specific mix of incoming
single large building,” Raabe said. “By using
radiating cable range, CELLFLEX feeder
RF services to be combined is dependent on
passive
and
cables, point source antennas and low-
the particular application. A four-input/four-
RFS
loss service splitters and combiners.
output port model (BBC-4/4-380/2200) is
broadband
combining
technology,
distribution the
new
the
BBC
broadband
available, and will be complemented by
in-building system to be extended over up
wavelength ‘RF over fibre optic’ in larger
a
model.
to 20 kilometres, by linking ‘optical unit’
campus applications. The receive module
Optimized for all RF bands between
and ‘remote unit’ via mono mode fibre
(ORM) offers high dynamic range and is
380 MHz and 2200 MHz, the BBC
optic cable (see figure 2).
based on an extremely linear and low-noise
combiner’s multiple output ports permit
“The basic weakness of conventional
30dB broadband amplifier, while the
even distribution of a combined RF signal
‘RF-on-fibre’ solutions to date has been the
transmit module (OTM) uses a DFB laser and
across multiple sectors of a distributed
reduced dynamic range,” Raabe explained.
offers high linearity and low noise.
wireless network. By splitting the signal at
“This can lead to intermodulation in the
the combiner, rather than branching off at
downlink, and excessive noise in the
Predominantly passive
each floor or segment, overall system
uplink.” The active nature of the fibre
According to Raabe, the key advantages of
two-input/two-output
port
the new RFS high-end in-building solution extend
well
beyond
the
specific
performance of each individual component—total reduced
system
total
performance
system
cost
and
are
the
most important factors. An emphasis on retaining a predominantly passive system has ensured premium reliability and serviceability of the entire in-building solution. “Our high-end in-building solution is essentially passive, and is founded on our tried The ‘Head end’ signal combiner assembly, comprising the broadband BBC series distributive combiner, coupled with a selection of band-specific MCC series multi-channel combiners.
The ‘Back end’ rack, incorporating optical unit, I-RFU amplifiers, patch panel and power supply unit.
losses are reduced and smaller cables
system can also present a potential weak-
and
may be used throughout the system.
WHAT ’S N EW proven
RADIAFLEX
broadband
ness in terms of system reliability. RFS has
radiating cable technology. All our passive
in
overcome these problems by developing a
components—such as power splitters and
combination with the BBC combiner, a total
uniquely high-gain remote site amplifier—
directional couplers—are broadband to
of 16 carriers may be driven into a single
the I-RFU—which is purpose-built to
2.5 GHz, ensuring that the distributive
broadband passive distribution system
support multi-carrier/multi-band systems.
network can support applications such as
(see figure 1). This presents a highly cost-
The modular amplifiers are high-end, high-
WLAN as well. RFS in-building solutions are
efficient RF distribution platform, both from
amplification units designed to meet the
absolutely
an installation and operations perspective.
stringent European Telecommunications
By
By
using
the
new
MCC
series
futureproof,”
providing
said
Raabe.
premium-quality
active
Standards Institute (ETSI) intermodulation
components,
‘RF-over-fibre’ components
requirements. The I-RFU amplifiers incorpo-
in-building solution actually minimizes the
To reach remote sites on larger campuses,
rate built-in soft redundancy, ensuring
total number of active components in the
RFS
RF
absolute reliability. The units provide 20 to
system, thereby improving total system
complements
its
advanced
the
new
RFS
high-end
complete
50 dB up-link and down-link gain in 2 dB
reliability and performance.
‘RF-over-fibre’ system—a rack-based fibre
steps, and can typically support passive RF
“The RFS in-building system is optimized for
optic transmit/receive system (OTM and
system coverage of areas between 50,000
a multi-carrier/multi-band environment,”
ORM optical convertor series); plus a range
and 80,000 square metres.
Raabe
of high-performance, low-noise modular
The RFS OTM and ORM optical convertor
technically challenging, but an absolute
amplifiers (I-RFU series) for remote site
modules are ‘plug-in’ components of RFS’s
must have for commercial operators and
re-amplification of each RF signal. Used in
complete 19-inch rack fibre optic series,
building
combination, this product set permits the
designed to transmit and receive 1310 nm
markets.”
combining
solution
with
a
concluded.
owners
“This
planning
is
for
uniquely
future
7
I n d i a n w i re l e s s t a ke s t o t h e a i r After a decade of fast-paced liberalization, the Indian wireless market has emerged as the world’s fastest growing. In the quest for true end-to-end solutions, Indian wireless operators are turning to RFS.
8
Outside its borders, India is a country
Telecom Policy (NTP94) in 1994. The
that is regularly misunderstood and
legislation’s clear objective was to tap
misrepresented, yet its truths are often
into the private sector to introduce new
‘stranger than fiction’. In contrast with
players into India’s fixed line service area,
the ‘developing nation’ aspect often
and to kick-start the country’s cellular in-
presented in the West, India is actually
dustry. A total of 18 cellular service areas
the home of leading-edge technology
(known as ‘circles’) were determined,
developments and numerous corporate
roughly in accordance with the country’s
‘centres of excellence’. The country is a
state borders. Two licenses were offered
REGIONAL FOCUS massive 3.3 million square kilometres—an
in each ‘circle’, and in each of the four major
fledgling industry. NTP99 saw the high-cost
area larger than all of East and West Europe
metropolitan areas of Delhi, Mumbai,
fixed fee spectrum license scheme replaced
(excluding CIS)—has a population close to
Kolkata and Chennai. Cellular license fees
by a lower cost structure based on revenue
one billion (18 per cent of the world), and
and
investment
sharing. Today, each operator pays between
supports a booming middle-class whose
demands were high, but at the time, many
8 to 12 per cent of its adjusted gross revenue,
total number exceeds the population of the
industry pundits perceived the revenue
depending on the category of the service
United States.
opportunities as almost limitless.
area. NTP99 also saw the end of the duopoly
Cellular telephony in India is barely seven
Just as has been the recent experience in
in each circle, with third and fourth licenses
years old, with the first operator—Modi
Europe after the issue of third generation
issued in each area during 2001.
Telstra—launching its Kolkata network in
(3G) cellular licenses, the years immediately
August 1995. Today, the country boasts over
following the 1994 Indian license issue saw
Challenge 2003
40 networks across the nation, serving
the then-13 Indian cellular operators waking
In 2003, the Indian cellular market faces
almost 10 million subscribers in over 1400
to a non too-cheery ‘morning after’. Many
numerous challenges. While the industry
towns and cities. In just seven years, the
were reminded of the well-known Hindi
boasts escalating growth, most operators
Indian cellular market has grown from
proverb “Don’t bargain for fish that are still in
are
nothing, to being the world’s fastest
the water”. All struggled with the punishing
explains
growing, exceeding that of China.
license fees, and the far slower than expected
Manager of Radio Frequency Systems India,
government-stipulated
experiencing Sukant
falling
ARPU.
Chakravarty,
This,
Country
growth in subscribers and average revenue
is the result of India’s extraordinarily low
Direct to deregulation
per user (ARPU).
cellular
‘Deregulation’ was the order of the day when
In 1999, new government legislation—the
lowest. “This is the irony of the Indian
the Government introduced its National
so-called NTP99—brought great relief to the
cellular market in 2003. In principle, it is
tariffs—currently
the
world’s
booming, but the ARPU and average
technology. This issue is currently being
the technology needed to make up the
minutes of use (MOU) tend to be low. In the
contested in the courts between the
passive RF link. This is something that has
meantime, operators must meet ongoing
Cellular Operators Association of India
been sadly lacking in India up to now.” The
capital investment to keep pace with
(COAI) and TRAI.
end-to end nature of the RFS solution, he
subscriber growth,” Chakravarty says. “The
says, will help India’s operators get on the air
long-term opportunities are astounding,
RFS in India
faster and more cost- and time-efficiently—
but in the meantime it can be tough.”
The RFS India office was established in Delhi
an important advantage in such a competi-
Chakravarty
issues
in February 2002, and has seen the
tive market.
impacting on the Indian cellular market at
believes
company quickly win favour across the
RFS Senior Sales Manager Uwe Mensing
this time are foreign direct investment (FDI)
Indian wireless market. In late 2001, RFS
concurs, pointing out that the company
policy, spectrum allocation, revenue sharing
supplied nearly 2000 code division multiple
plans
and the general issue of license definition.
access (CDMA) 800 antennas for operator
“Presently, we are at the final stages of
The Indian Government currently limits
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL), and is
appointing local sales partners in India. This
foreign investment to a maximum of 49 per
currently providing total RF solutions for FM
will permit us to offer a range of value-
cent, with legislation currently before
radio consortiums in Delhi, Kolkata and
added services to our Indian customers,”
parliament to increase this to 74 per cent.
Chennai (see breakout story). In 2001, RFS
Mensing says.
“This will be an important advance
was appointed to provide a complete
“In the very near future, RFS will offer, via
for our industry, because clearly the
turnkey confined coverage system for the
our local sales partners, important services
industry needs an injection of new
Delhi Metro. The new system will provide a
such as Rupee invoicing, local warehousing,
funds,” Chakravarty says. He believes
TETRA 380 train radio system for the metro’s
fast delivery turn-around and customized
that
on
new 11-kilometre north-south section,
product for the Indian market.” He cites as
spectrum allocation and revenue sharing
which is scheduled to be completed during
an example of the latter the ‘GSM Site
would also provide much needed relief.
2003-2004. The company is currently
Express Service’ base station kits, which will
Perhaps most controversial in 2003, is the
tendering for numerous upcoming cellular
be launched at the March Convergence
issue of license definition. In recent times,
and broadcast projects.
India exhibition in Delhi. The purpose-built
the industry’s regulatory authority, Telecom
Chakravarty believes that RFS offers the
kit contains all the RF technology needed to
Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), has
Indian wireless market a refreshing alterna-
realize effective GSM cellular operations.
determined that the licenses awarded to
tive to its legacy suppliers. “We’ve been
“RFS is keen to be a professional and strong
‘basic service’ (fixed line) operators permit
applauded by our Indian customers over the
part of the Indian wireless business,”
them to establish ‘limited mobility’ wireless
past year, primarily for our widely-reputed
concludes Mensing. “This is a very big
networks at no additional fee. These are
product quality, also—and perhaps more
country and an exciting market. We’re
networks of less than 25 kilometres in
importantly—for the true ‘end-to-end’
proud to be part of its growth.”
diameter, based on wireless local loop
nature of our solutions. RFS can provide all
corrections
to
the
the
key
policies
important
expansions
in
2003.
India FM in Kolkata, Delhi and Chennai In first quarter 2003, residents of Kolkata, Delhi and Chennai will enjoy a
broadband
selection of new commercial FM stations, thanks to a fast-track broadcast
surveys, and a dynamic RF technology partner.”
development program supported by RFS.
RFS was selected to be this technology partner, and offered a solution
Legislation has required that the new FM license holders in each city form
based on two essential components: the RFS 904 series full-band FM
broadcaster consortiums to share existing tower structures of the
panel array mounted atop the existing AIR tower structure, coupled
incumbent government broadcaster, All India Radio (AIR). “While tower
with the RFS CZ series multi-channel balanced combiner to provide a
sharing will speed deployment and minimize capital investment,
combined signal from all broadcasters to the broadband array. RFS
it also presents a number of challenges,” says Country Manager
HELIFLEX flexible air-dielectric coaxial feeder cables will form the link
RFS India Sukant Chakravarty. “Tower sharing demands more elegant
between the combiner and the FM array at each site.
RF
solutions,
comprehensive
site
and
tower
CDMA escalates in China
components such as filters to screen stray GSM frequencies. Similar products are
As the number of subscribers to China’s CDMA network escalates, RFS supplies local operators and OEMs with RF infrastructure in support of China Unicom’s critical network expansion.
also being supplied to OEMs Nortel Networks and Shanghai Bell Samsung for base stations in an even wider range of provinces.
Chinese cellular operator, China Unicom,
Levels of urgency
has of late enjoyed massive subscriber
According to Zhu, the various branches
RFS Shanghai expands
growth of its code division multiple access
have different levels of urgency for their
“The majority of these products are
(CDMA) network—the only network of its
network expansions. Not all provinces are
manufactured at RFS’s facility in Shanghai,”
kind in China. Reaching one million
approaching the limit of their capacities,
Zhu said, adding that the company is
subscribers in six months, the network has
while for others the capacity upgrade is
currently expanding this facility yet again to
since escalated in popularity, with the
becoming imperative. Many provincial
meet demand. “We’ll soon have signifi-
number of subscribers hitting around seven
operators are also focusing on extending
cantly expanded antenna production—
ultimate target capacity of a further
the coverage area of their networks; and
including variable electrical tilt cross-
15 million users.
most of the coastal provinces have found it
polarized antennas—and a wider variety
network
necessary to upgrade their systems to the
of feeder cables. This is very important, as
expansion, Radio Frequency Systems is
2.5G technology CDMA-1x in order to
in most cases we need a very short
supplying antenna and feeder systems
remain competitive against the GSM/GPRS
lead time on products—they have to
to many of the individual provincial
network of China’s other major cellco,
be available very quickly.”
operators. “The initial network deployment
China Mobile.
These
was undertaken for the whole of China
RFS is supplying equipment to a number of
manufacturing facility will enable RFS to
by China Unicom headquarters,” said
provincial branches, including Guang-dong
better support all the China Unicom
Zhu du Qing, RFS Area Product Manager.
Unicom, Jiang-su Unicom, Fu-jian Unicom
provincial operators as they continue
“However,
phase
and Beijing Unicom. The range of RFS
expanding the CDMA network. “We’ve
expansion, the provincial branches of
products encompasses fixed and variable
developed a very good relationship with
China Unicom have taken responsibility.
electrical tilt cross-polarized antennas (the
China Unicom, and we hope to keep
They are each working to their own
APX and APXV series), CELLFLEX feeder
working with them into the future,”
time schedule.”
cable and accessories, plus RF Conditioning
Zhu said.
million at the end of 2002 after just a year of operation. Faced
with
a
projected
demand
of
21 million subscribers by the end of 2003, China Unicom launched the second phase of its network deployment in August 2002.
10
CELLULAR While the first phase involved the nationwide deployment of a complete CDMA network capable of supporting 14.5 million subscribers; the current project involves the staged expansion of the network on a province-by-province basis, with an
In
support
of
for
the
the
CDMA
second
upgrades
to
RFS’s
Shanghai
Tu n i s i a c e l e b ra t e s n e w cellular service At the launch of Tunisia’s second GSM network, demand for cellular communications was so high that initial growth was five times the operator’s expectation.
Careful pattern shaping One reason for this careful pattern shaping was so that lower tower masts could be
On the day that Tunisia’s second cellular
the
Tunisians
used to reduce visual impact of antenna
network was launched in the national
languished on a subscription waiting list
base stations. Before network deployment
capital, crowds of people queued for hours
that was taking months—even years—to
commenced, the operator was required to
to sign up for the new global system for
clear. This led the Tunisian Telecommunica-
complete a visual impact study to be
mobile communications (GSM) service.
tions Ministry to award a second licence for
approved by the Environment National
Operated by Orascom Telecom Tunisia, a
dual band GSM 900 and 1800 services to
Agency. Other low visual impact solutions
joint
venture
between
the
Egyptian
point
that
700,000
Orascom Telecom in March 2002.
included combinations of RFS’s low visual
Orascom Telecom and Kuwait’s Wataniya
The inaugural phase of the network roll-out
impact Optimizer series antennas, plus
Telecom, the Tunisiana network was
commenced in July 2002, and involved the
antennas mounted in the central face of
launched on 27 December 2002. After just
deployment of GSM 900 base stations in
buildings.
two weeks, the number of subscribers had
Tunisia’s capital, Tunis. Radio Frequency
After launching the network in Tunis,
far surpassed expectations.
Systems supplied antennas and coaxial
Orascom Telecom Tunisia plans to expand
Orascom Telecom Tunisia’s chief technical officer, Hisham Siblini: “The traffic has increased much quicker than expected. It’s really very exciting for us.”
CELLULAR
The Northern African nation of Tunisia is
services rapidly to cover 60 per cent of the
one of the world’s emerging markets. With
population by the end of May 2003. This
just 14 per cent of the population having
has involved covering the coastal cities of
access to fixed telephone lines, the growth
Hammamet and Nabeul, followed by cities
potential for wireless communications—
such as Sousse, Sfax and Bizerte. Targeting
and cellular telephony in particular—is
the deployment of 50 new base stations
perceived to be tremendous. Hisham
per month, the operator plans to have
Siblini, Chief Technical Officer at Orascom
services available to 80 per cent of the
Telecom Tunisia, believes that the nation
feeder cable for all base stations in
population by the end of 2003. In support
will increase its cellular penetration from
this initial deployment phase.
of this growth, RFS is supplying antennas
five to 40 per cent within two to three
The antenna selection comprised a mix of
and transmission lines for at least another
years. “It’s likely that wireless will eventually
RFS’s Optimizer series of cross polarized
150 base stations.
take over from fixed telephony,” he says.
panel antennas, which meet the high gain,
“Wireless can reach areas where fixed lines
vertical/horizontal aperture, front to back
The high traffic demand looks set to ensure
are non-existent. It’s very important.”
ratio, and electrical tilt specifications of
that densification of the Tunisiana network
Orascom Telecom Tunisia. “Two suppliers
proceeds in conjunction with expansion of
Cellular demand
could supply antennas that matched our
services. “We didn’t think that dual band
Tunisia’s first GSM 900 network, operated
list of important technical specifications,”
would come for around two years,” says
by the state-owned Tunisie Telecom, was
says Siblini. “In the end, the advice and
Siblini. “But the traffic has increased much
launched in 1998. Yet by 2001 the extreme
professional support from RFS made a
quicker than expected. It’s really very
demand for mobile phones had reached
significant impact.”
exciting for us.”
11
S e a m l e s s t ra n s i t i o n to 3G with R F S C E L L F L E X ®® ‘A’ s e r i e s RFS presents a sneak preview of a significant evolution of its popular CELLFLEX®® foam dielectric feeder cable range.
RFS will preview the CELLFLEX® ‘A’ series high-performance feeder cable and RAPID FIT™ connectors during March 2003 at both the CTIA Wireless 2003 and CeBIT exhibitions:
12
F E E D E R SYST E M S
CeBIT, 12 to 19 March, 2003. Hall 13, stand No. C57, Hannover Exhibition Grounds, Hannover, Germany.
RFS’s new CELLFLEX® ‘A’ series feeder cable—the perfect balance between improved feeder cable performance, and backward compatibility.
CTIA Wireless 2003, 17 to 19 March, 2003. Booth No. 5931, Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
Radio Frequency Systems’ new high-performance CELLFLEX ‘A’ series feeder cable has been specifically developed to meet the exacting performance needs of third
RFS RAPID FIT connector range. Quick and easy to install, the CELLFLEX ‘A’ series RAPID FIT connector offers improved return loss (up to 6 dB improvement at 2.2 GHz)
generation (3G) cellular networks, while
friendly’—a comprehensive and familiar
and consistently low and stable inter-
retaining ease of handling and backward
range of sizes, connector formats, cable
modulation (IM) levels. The new connector
compatibility in cable connector systems.
accessories and so on—as this clearly helps
series is available for all CELLFLEX cable
Due for global launch on July 1 2003, the
streamline the entire installation process
sizes ranging from 7/8 inch through to
cable family boasts a number of features,
and reduces roll-out costs. RFS has achieved
2-1/4 inch, and in both type N and 7-16 DIN
including an improvement in attenuation
this with the CELLFLEX ‘A’ series: the
interface.
performance of up to six per cent.
perfect
improved
The entire CELLFLEX ‘A’ series will be
“Cellular operators worldwide are now
feeder cable performance, and backward
launched in July 2003, and will be available
faced with the challenge of deploying new
compatibility.”
in all popular feeder cable sizes (7/8, 1-1/4,
3G cellular base stations as cost-efficiently
As a first release of this important range,
1-5/8 and 2-1/4 inch cable diameter),
and as quickly as possible,” said Eric
the CELLFLEX ‘A’ series RAPID FIT cable
plus a choice of standard UV-resistant
Munro, RFS Global Product Manager
connector family will be globally launched
polyethylene or flame and fire retardant
Transmission Lines. “On the one hand, they
in March 2003. Completely backward
jackets. For more demanding applications,
must address the issue of attenuation
compatible with the existing CELLFLEX
‘Premium Performance’ CELLFLEX ‘A’ series
at the higher frequencies allocated to
feeder cable family, the single-piece RAPID
is available, offering the lowest possible
3G networks. On the other, they are looking
FIT cable connector is identical in installa-
voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) over a
for feeder solutions that are ‘installer-
tion, handling and tooling to the existing
customer-specified operating bandwidth.
balance
between
Tu n n e l s g a i n communications f o r f a s t t ra i n i n S p a i n
supporting the GSM-R service, which is targeting the train’s single antenna.” Lara explained further that the low coupling loss was not compromised by the special tape integrated into the cable jacket
In support of the European railway safety communications standard, GSM-R, RFS has supplied confined coverage RF infrastructure for 16 new tunnels along the new high speed train route between Madrid and Barcelona.
to ensure low smoke emissions, owing to the unique method of its application.
Helical antennas In order to maintain speeds of around
“The coupling loss is particularly low when
Communications in the remaining tunnels
360
‘very
fast
the RAY cable is optimized for vertical
are covered by a series of distributed
straight
rail
polarization,” said Enric Lara, Director
antenna networks incorporating RFS helical
tracks. In the case of the high speed
General of RFS’s new Madrid office. “This is
antennas and CELLFLEX feeder cable—
route between the Spanish cities of
an
antennas are also featured at both en-
kilometres
trains’
per
demand
hour,
very
especially
important
feature
for
Madrid and Barcelona, this has led
trances of the RADIAFLEX-covered tunnels.
to the construction of a new train
“RFS was the only supplier qualified to pro-
line
vide antennas for this application,” Lara
to
that prevent
incorporates the
Madrid-Barcelona
16
tunnels
600-kilometre line
from
Ave
said. “The special helical shape of the
curving
antennas make them ideal for tunnels with
with the contours of the countryside.
very
high
pressures—such
as
those
CONFINED COVERAGE Yet as locomotives power through hills and
experienced when a train passes at
under cities, it remains imperative to
360 kilometres per hour!”
maintain on-board safety and emergency
The broadband helical antennas also
communications. The European railway
feature a high gain of 10 dBi that allows
safety communications standard, GSM-R,
them to be spaced up to 2000 metres apart
operates in the 876 to 925 MHz band, and
within the tunnels. No RF modifications
is used for all European rail networks. To be
to the helical antennas were required to
detected only by a train’s roof-mounted
support GSM-R, although the mounting
antenna, GSM-R was the first wireless
hardware was reinforced to accommodate
communications service deployed along
the extra stresses associated with the very
the new Ave Madrid-Barcelona line.
fast train’s passing.
Low coupling loss In support of GSM-R, Radio Frequency
The ‘Las Hechiceras’ tunnel in Lerida, Spain—one of 16 new train tunnels for which RFS has supplied confined coverage infrastructure.
The Ave Madrid-Barcelona now travels between the two cities in under 2.5 hours— less than half the time taken by ordinary
Systems has supplied confined coverage RF
locomotives. Given that the entire route will
infrastructure for the 16 new tunnels along
ultimately also be supported by commercial
the new route. Three of the longest tunnels
GSM services, the very fast train is certain to
feature
RFS’s
provide a competitive alternative to air
RADIAFLEX 1-1/4 inch RAY foam dielectric
travel for the thousands of daily commuters
radiating cable—a unique cable exhibiting
between these major centres of Spanish
very low coupling loss.
business and industry.
redundant
lengths
of
13
level of pattern performance is required
M i c ro w a v e b a c k b o n e p ro v i d e s l i n k f o r Tu r k i s h o p e ra t o r
due to high radio congestion. This is because the Ultra High Performance family has a reduced side lobe level, owing to the inclusion of an RF absorbing shroud which reduces reflections. RFS antennas also offer a high antenna gain. “High gain is very
In January 2003, Turkish GSM operator Aycell launched the next phase of its deployment: a microwave backbone system for its GSM 1800 network utilizing RFS microwave antenna technology.
important—it means the link distance can be greater,” said Arndt. The balance of the antennas are from the RFS High Performance range.
14
As growth upturns in the Turkish wireless
Istanbul, plus the popular tourist destina-
market, fledgling global system for mobile
tions
communications (GSM) operator Aycell has
January 2003.
One of the challenges associated with
launched the next phase of its deployment:
The selected microwave antennas comprise
installation of microwave antennas is
a microwave backbone system for its
a mix of sizes optimized for the 19 GHz and
related to their potential size. “Installation
GSM 1800 network. Majority owned by
7 GHz frequency bands. According to RFS
of 19 GHz antennas is fairly straightfor-
government institution Turkish Telecom,
Regional Sales Manager, Dietmar Arndt, the
ward, as they’re relatively small—between
of
Izmir
and
Antalya,
during
Suitable sizes
Aycell is one of two new cellular services
one and six feet in diameter,” said Arndt.
recently introduced to the market, bringing
“But the 7 GHz antennas get up to four
the number of Turkish operators up to four.
metres in size—they’re huge!”
MICROWAVE NEC, together with its partner Karel, was
Such large antennas are delivered in two or
awarded the contract to provide Aycell with
three pieces, which are then assembled on
the microwave communications network,
site. Considering the whole installation
which is planned to comprise 600 different
process—which includes mounting of the
stations
The
reflector, hoisting of the complete antenna
purpose of the microwave backbone
up a 100-metre mast, connection of long
system within densely populated areas is to
waveguide lengths, and the mounting of
link voice and data between base stations
active equipment at the bottom of the
throughout
the
nation.
and switching centres; it is also used at lower
19 GHz antennas will be used for
mast—these microwave antennas can take
frequencies to provide communications
microwave links spanning up to 20 kilome-
up to a week to install.
between switching centres across longer
tres, such as those more commonly seen in
RFS delivered the first 200 microwave
distances.
more densely populated areas. “In rural
antennas to NEC and Aycell in December
areas where there’s lower population densi-
2002, with the balance to follow through-
Turnkey in Turkey
ty, it makes more sense to have the 7 GHz
out 2003. Added to this, RFS is also
As part of this 2003 project, Radio
connections,” he said. “These are typically
supplying all cellular panel antennas and
Frequency
50 to 60 kilometres in length.”
feeder cables for Aycell’s GSM 1800 base
microwave antennas to NEC in addition to
About 20 per cent of the microwave anten-
stations via Nortel Netas/Palmet and Alcatel
providing turnkey installation and commis-
nas ordered for Aycell’s backbone network
Teletas. This means that by the end of 2003,
sioning via RFS’s Turkish agent, FPS
are derived from RFS’s Ultra High Perfor-
the whole Aycell network will be on-air
Mühendislik.
were
mance antenna range, which is the
with wireless coverage by RFS.
installed in the major cities of Ankara and
optimum choice for systems where a high
Systems
The
is
first
supplying
stations
600
L A b ro a d c a s t e rs o p t f o r b ro a d b a n d Mount Wilson, Los Angeles’ premiere broadcast site, will soon house a sophisticated RFS broadband solution, with antenna patterns especially sculpted to limit the TV signals reaching the Mexican border.
the current analogue services over to digital will be an easy transition, and we’ve allowed room for another two combiner chains to be installed.”
As digital television (DTV) deployment
“We started out looking for a solution to
heats up in the United States, it is perhaps
allow eight or more stations to feed a single
New full wavelength combiner
fitting that broadcasters in Los Angeles,
antenna system, while also giving us
Wymant says that the combiner modules
arguably the global home of TV, are break-
control over the pattern.” He says that RFS
will be shipped in early March from RFS’s
ing new ground. In an innovative although
was introduced into the project due to its
design and manufacturing facility, and will
not unprecedented move, a consortium of
extensive global experience in designing
include the newly developed full wave-
four LA broadcasters have banded together
high power broadband panel arrays.
length directional waveguide combiner.
to share digital broadcasting facilities atop
The pattern shaping requirements were
“In order to accommodate the very high
the city’s premier site, Mount Wilson.
made particularly complicated by the need
combinations of peak power and frequency
Multi-service systems are few and far
to protect Mexico—whose closest border is
in the system—such as channel 50 at
between in the USA, where broadcasters
just 129 miles (207 km) from Mount
85 kW—we’ve developed a full wavelength
have shown a traditional preference for
Wilson—from transmitted signals. This has
combiner,” says Lewis Steer, RFS Broadcast
Two Two UHF UHF antenna antenna stacks stacks and and eight eight flexible flexible feed feed lines lines will will be be installed installed on on this this Mount Mount Wilson Wilson tower tower to to provide provide aa broadband broadband solution solution for for four four LA LA broadcasters. broadcasters.
BROADCAST
stand-alone systems. However, the advent
necessitated the sculpting of the antenna
Engineer. “It features reduced loss and has
of DTV and simulcasted digital/analogue
patterns so that they reduce towards the
double the surface area for dissipating
services means that mountain real estate is
border without losing any performance in
heat.” The antennas will be shipped in
now at a premium. This, and the consider-
the city. “I don’t know any way, other
early May.
able cost involved in deploying new
than using panel antennas, we could
RFS will supervise installation of the two
infrastructure, has spawned a search for
have done this without compromising
antenna stacks and eight associated flexible
alternative solutions.
performance,” Weiss says.
coaxial feeders, but will take charge of
The resulting RFS solution comprises dual
installation and commissioning of all
Share to be there
combined antenna systems with the
combiners
For more than three years, broadcast
capacity to accommodate a total of
including
consultant S. Merrill Weiss, of the Merrill
12 digital or analogue services from
transmitter room.
Weiss Group, has been working with Radio
channel 32 to 56, with a total combined
By the time the DTV deadline is reached,
Frequency Systems, infrastructure provider
input power of 195 kW per antenna. Initial
just about all of LA’s broadcasters will be
American Tower Corporation, and trans-
operation will incorporate four digital
operating from Mount Wilson—a projected
mitter manufacturer Axcera, to develop a
services, each radiating 1 MW effective
43 out of 50 services. “There is simply not
multi-system digital/analogue solution for
radiated power (ERP), and three analogue
the space for each broadcaster to have
LA broadcasters KDOC, KXLA, KOCE and
services, each radiating approximately
separate antennas,” says Weiss. “But I also
KJLA. “The common facility will achieve
2.4 MW ERP.
think US broadcasters are starting to
both economies of scale and a means of
“We built a deal of flexibility and future-
recognize that if they cooperate and
fitting all seven new services onto the
proofing into the system,” says Nick
co-locate they can all have a better chance
mountain without interference,” Weiss says.
Wymant, RFS project manager. “Changing
at profitability, let alone survival.”
and rigid
switching feeder
equipment,
lines
to
the
15
I n d o n e s i a n T V d i v e rs i f i e s a n d re a c h e s o u t As five new commercial TV stations vie for market share in a country of 210 million people, in-depth site knowledge in Indonesia is seen as essential to the successful installation of broadcast infrastructure.
16
Amidst the social and political upheaval
Indonesia until 1989, when pressures
of the past few years, Indonesia has
on
continued to experience growth in its
more
TV broadcast industry. Driven by a shift
of programs led to some deregulation.
in government policy, the country is
In that year, UHF permits were issued
currently undergoing important changes
to Rajawali Citra Televisi Indonesia
to its broadcast licensing laws. This has
(RCTI) and Surya Cipta Televisi (SCTV).
resulted in five new networks going
These
‘On-Air’ in October 2001, with further
commercial
licences being issued to regional
Pendidikan Indonesia (TPI) in 1991,
broadcasters Bali Ranadha TV and
Cakrawala Andalas Televisi (ANteve)
Jawa TV.
and IDOSIAR in 1993.
Radio Frequency Systems has posi-
The introduction of the commercial
tioned itself well to support the
free-to-air TV stations was viewed
newcomers. Many years of designing
positively by Indonesians, especially those
systems for the more-established networks
in the main metropolitan areas. The new
have given it ‘on the ground’ experience
stations
in tailoring antenna configurations to suit
choices, including international items, and
each site. This knowledge has become
created an advertising revenue stream.
valuable to the new networks as they
After strong growth in the major cities, a
expand and compete with the country’s six
number
existing broadcasters.
concentrating on expanding their coverage
the
government
entertainment
were
provide
and
diversity
followed
by
broadcasters:
offered
of
to
the
more
A lightning arrester sits at the top of a UHF antenna in Jakarta—the capital city has been the starting point for many of the Indonesian TV networks.
other Televisi
programming
networks
are
now
to more remote areas of the country.
The early years of TV Indonesian TV began in Jakarta during the
New networks emerge
1962 Asian Games. The first live VHF
Since the 1999 award of a further five
broadcast was conducted at the opening
licenses, broadcasters TransTV, TV7, Lativi,
ceremony by government-owned broad-
MetroTV and Global TV have commenced
caster, Televisi Republik lndonesia (TVRI). As
TV services in the UHF band. They face
one of the major sources of news and
many challenges as they set out to
information to rural Indonesians, TVRI
establish themselves during unpredict-
went on to set up stations all over the
able economic times and in a fiercely
country and, in 1976, began to reach
competitive
many of the more isolated communities
networks are not sharing the existing
with the launch of the Palapa satellite.
broadcast infrastructure so, in addition to
TVRI remained the only TV broadcaster in
covering
the
environment.
costs
of
Some
new
programming,
6-1/8-inch coaxial feeder cables were supplied for the TransTV antenna system in Jakarta.
they have had to raise the capital
to custom-design cost-effective antenna
focusing power over a long distance
required to install their own equipment.
systems for their intended target areas.
without directing all the power away from the
For recent arrivals, TransTV and TV7,
population
living
directly
below.
expansion beyond Jakarta has necessitated
The benefit of experience
RFS was subsequently very careful to tailor
targeting one or more cities at a time, and
RFS has been operating in Indonesia since
the pattern of the antenna to reach both
then attempting to match or better the
1978. It has developed a long-standing
target regions.
coverage of the existing networks. For their
relationship with TVRI and has much
inaugural Jakarta installation in 2001,
experience with INDOSIAR, ANTeve and
Overcoming access issues
they independently consulted RFS. To
TPI. Over the years, RFS has developed
In addition to optimizing coverage, RF
meet performance requirements, 12-level,
valuable in-country knowledge, including
technology
4-sided, directional panel antennas, with
details of site locations, where the local
confronted with engineering and logistical
associated feeder systems and accessories,
populations live and the types of coverage
problems. Access can prove challenging
were installed by both broadcasters.
that broadcasters are interested in. As the
to a number of sites, especially where
The power ratings of the systems were high
older networks focus on setting up fill-in
narrow roads prevent simple entry and exit
and required two 6 1/8 inch coaxial feeder
stations to compensate for coverage gaps
of people and equipment. For TV7’s
cables to provide full redundancy.
in and away from the cities, RFS is finding
Jakarta installation, the 250 metre tower
TransTV and TV7 have followed up
that its experience translates very well to
was built in a residential area, requiring
with installations in the cities of Bandung,
the needs of the new broadcasters.
the access roads to be widened and
Surabaya,
and
According to Norm Franke, Sales Manager,
strengthened. For TransTV at its Semarang
Medan. In most cases, these are smaller
RFS Asia Pacific, “Site knowledge is essen-
site, it was necessary to repair the bridges.
antenna
tial due to the diverse range of difficulties
At other sites, where supply of equipment
Yogyakarta,
systems
Semarang
with
lower
power
suppliers
are
frequently
BROADCAST requirements.
RFS
support
expansion
the
was
chosen
would normally necessitate using a large
its
primary concern are coverage challenges
vehicle, limitations of access have often
brought about by topography, and the
forced RFS to offload everything onto small
setting
earlier
networks,
specific requirements of each local trans-
trucks, or even carry by hand. This was
and
incountry
mission site. Experience in antenna design
something that RFS had to contend with in
support. “RFS is very familiar with most
in a particular area allows RFS to optimize
early 2002, where the quality of the roads
of the transmitting locations so we are
coverage patterns to suit the location while
to the central Java town of Yogyakarta
able to quickly design the most suitable
avoiding unwanted reflections from the
created obstacles to the supply and
and
the
environment. “The end result is a system
installation of a two tonne antenna.
required coverage, for that particular
that pushes maximum power in the
As the newer networks seek to reach more
location,” said Darryl Hancock, Chief
desired region of coverage and minimizes
remote populations, site knowledge—
Representative, RFS Indonesia.
wastage, such as radiating into mountains
such as that demonstrated by RFS—is
RFS was also awarded the supply of
or out to sea,” said Franke.
proving
antenna systems for regional broadcaster
A challenge for RFS at Semarang, on the
the design and placement of critical
Bali TV, which went to air in May 2002.
north coast of central Java, was to con-
broadcast infrastructure. Ultimately, this
Regional
are
struct an antenna system for TV7 that
will go a long way to ensuring that a large
concentrating on smaller viewer popula-
would reach to the far-off town of Kudus,
choice of ‘free-to-air’ channels is available
tions,
to the majority of Indonesians.
competitive
the
to
that are encountered in each area.” Of
experience and good track record with up
due
to
pricing
cost-effective
Indonesian
and
not
for
broadcasters
large
in the North-West, as well as service the
engineering resources of the national
housing estate lying very close to the
networks. RFS has been working directly
location of the transmitter. The solution
with
had to meet the conflicting demands of
the
do
systems
have
management
of
the
Bali
TV
indispensible
for
optimizing
17
groups are being formed,” he said. “These
Swiss tunnels ride with RADIAFLEX®
are establishing large combined digital systems and leasing out RF infrastructure to the various networks—as is the case at Sears Tower, Chicago and Mount Wilson,
Railway communications are soon to take
The first of two recipients of the new
Los
off in Switzerland’s tunnels with a major
confined coverage system in 2002 was the
resources, RFS offers complete design and
new confined coverage project for Swiss
‘Rothrist - Mattstetten’ tunnel between
manufacture of the most sophisticated
Rail. Commenced in the second half of
Zurich and Bern. According to Harald Zietz,
systems.”
2002, the ‘TFK 21’ project will eventually
RFS Regional Sales Manager, this is just the
In support of these market trends, RFS
bring modern wireless communications to
beginning.
many
will exhibit at NAB 2003 an example
both new and existing public railway
tunnels—it is like Swiss cheese. This is a
of a complete UHF broadcast system,
tunnels. Bern-based systems supplier, TSA-
major project for our confined coverage
incorporating a broadband panel antenna
Comlab, plans to conduct the installation
business over the next few years. So far,
array, adjacent channel combiner and
over the next five to six years, utilising up to
the customer is very satisfied with the
patch panel with digital display.
300 kilometres of radiating cable from
radiating cables. We’ll proceed step by
RFS will also exhibit its extensive range of
Radio Frequency Systems in the process.
step,” he said.
wideband RD slot cavity antennas, a family
“Switzerland
has
Angeles.
Drawing
upon
global
Despite its small land area, Switzerland has
that offers a solution for just about every
more than 700 railway tunnels. These vary
digital or analogue broadcasting scenario.
in length from one kilometre up to the
With power handling capabilities available
57-kilometre ‘St Gotthard’—the longest
up to 220 kW NTSC, the RD slot cavity antennas
operate
over
much
wider
frequency ranges than conventional slot
18
IN TOUCH
antennas—around 10 to 15 channels. The RD antenna is also available with a variety of pattern options and offers minimum
railway tunnel in the world. Up until recently, however, both commuter and rail network communications within these tunnels have been limited. Now, Swiss Rail has respond-
B ro a d b a n d at NAB 2003
wind loading. In the area of transmission lines, RFS will display its popular flexible air dielectric coaxial cable—the HELIFLEX range, available in sizes of 7/8 to 9 inch. Installed in
ed to requests from both mobile operators and the general public with plans to
At the NAB 2003 exhibition, to be held 7 to
continuous
provide coverage for global system for
10 April in Las Vegas USA, Radio Frequency
discontinuities,
mobile communications (GSM) 900 and
Systems will display its comprehensive
complete system performance, achieving
1800 services, as well as the European rail-
range of total broadcast system solutions.
consistently low return loss over the
way communications standard, GSM-R.
These
entire UHF bandwidth.
To ensure reliable performance with low
combined multi-channel systems, which
coupling loss for each tunnel, Comlab has
are becoming more prevalent in North
selected RFS RADIAFLEX RLKU 1-5/8 inch
American markets during the transition to
radiating
cable.
digital broadcasting.
coverage
for
The
cable
provides
solutions
for
According to RFS Area Product Manager,
will
Asad Zoberi, North American broadcasters
accommodation
are now appreciating the efficiency of
of TETRAPOL, one of the European public
multi-channel operations, where advanced
safety systems, and the universal mobile
combining technology permits multiple
telecommunication system (UMTS).
services to operate from a common
MHz
support
to the
2200 later
frequencies
tailored
from
380
all
include
MHz,
and
antenna. “A number of collaborative
lengths
that
HELIFLEX
minimize optimizes
Visit RFS at NAB 2003 7 to 10 April, 2003 Booth C3012, Main Hall Las Vegas Convention Centre, Las Vegas, USA
India expo for RFS
communications industry exhibition and
manufactures all the components that
seminar in New Delhi.
make up the RF chain—from base station communications
to antenna, transmitter to tower, or radio
market is experiencing unrivalled levels of
unit to microwave dish. We are ideally
growth,” explained Country Manager RFS
positioned to serve every aspect of the
Radio Frequency Systems is attracting
India, Sukant Chakravarty. “To meet the
Indian wireless industry, both now and
attention
fast
in the future!”
on
the
sub-continent
“The
and
Indian
wireless
turn-around,
the
Indian
market
is set to be a major drawcard at
demands total ‘end-to-end’ solutions from
RFS’s advanced cellular antenna remote
Convergence India 2003—India’s annual
its RF technology suppliers. RFS designs and
electrical tilt (RET) control system—the Optimizer RT—will form the centrepiece of its Convergence India 2003 exhibit. This will be complemented by a display of
RFS world: T h e s e a rc h continues
In support of a growing global customer
RFS’s growing family of cellular base
base, www.rfsworld.com now has two
station antennas—a wide selection of
exciting new features. The product search
base station antennas ideally suited
engine capability has been expanded to
to meet current-day Indian needs. These
support a Boolean text search (and, or,
include fixed and variable electrical tilt
excluding) on full text phrases—including
antennas, dual and multi-band antennas
product descriptions, specifications, model
for CDMA 800, GSM 900, GSM 1800
numbers and names. This means products
and
can be found faster and more easily.
plus the company’s unique series of
emerging
UMTS
applications,
The www.rfsworld.com website is also scaling international heights with the introduction of new languages to many
IN TOUCH
sections of the site. Currently supported are English, German, Spanish, Chinese and Russian languages, with more to
‘camouflage’ cellular antenna solutions.
follow during 2003.
This year's Convergence India will see the unveiling of RFS India's innovative 'GSM Site Express Service' base station kits, a purpose-built kit designed to minimise
R F S P ro d u c t s 2003
GSM base station roll-out time. The kits contain all the RF technology required to realise effective GSM cellular operations. The kit’s contents include RFS's CELLFLEX
The latest edition of Radio Frequency
foam dielectric feeder cable—the world's
Systems’ comprehensive global product
leading low-loss foam dielectric coaxial
catalogue—RFS PRODUCTS 2003—is now
cable brand, available in sizes ranging from
available from all regional offices and
1/4 inch to 2 1/4 inch diameter.
distributors. Featuring a wide range of new releases, the 2003 catalogue is a one-stop shop for product overviews, technical data sheets, and general information on all
the largest antenna to the smallest
RFS product lines.
connector. The RFS PRODUCTS 2003
A new innovation for 2003 is the search-
catalogue is the ultimate complement
able CD, providing an intuitive means of
for
homing in on a specific product—from
website, www.rfsworld.com.
the
company’s
extensive
global
Visit RFS at Convergence India 2003 11 to 13 March, 2003 Stand No. 11, Hall 416 Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India
19
RADIO FREQUENCY SYSTEMS
The Clear Choice in Wireless™ Please visit us on the internet at http://www.rfsworld.com