DragonWave Completes Small Cell Backhaul Propagation Tests

DragonWave Inc., a global supplier of packet microwave radio systems for mobile and access networks, has completed a series of extensive outdoor small cell backhaul propagation tests that have been conducted with a 3rd party for street level characterization.

This testing has validated and characterized non-line-of-sight (NLoS) paths at street level utilizing 60 GHz small cell backhaul deployment technologies. The exercise also validated and characterized the accuracy of NLOS path predictions in order to improve deployment and network planning.

As a result, the testing characterized distance limitations that are experienced by street level line-of-sight (LOS) paths due to flat fading. Flat fading had been found to limit urban paths with no incline to less than 400 meters, even with sufficient planned path fade margins. This testing focused upon how flat fading can be improved with various angles of incline.

Tests were made with and without vehicular traffic, characterizing RF channel behavior in LoS and NLoS conditions to verify product performance and determine best deployment practices.

"Conducting street level, outdoor small cell backhaul testing has enabled us to successfully characterize NLOS operation in the 60GHz band, through the first reported characterization of V-Band performance on Urban NLOS paths," said Erik Boch, DragonWave CTO and VP of Engineering. "We have gained actionable knowledge about how to combat path limitations that are present in urban deployments, and our network planning service will support both improved small cell performance and deployment capabilities"

DragonWave's line of packet microwave systems delivers the highest levels of spectral efficiency and reliability for carrier-grade delivery of advanced applications and services. For Small Cell backhaul, DragonWave offers a wide range of line-of-site and non-line-of-site radio solutions from sub-6GHz to 80GHz.

DragonWave in India

The company operates a service and repair center in Delhi, India. This center is supported by DragonWave's joint venture DragonWave HFCL and provides repair service and support for DragonWave's entire product portfolio.

Transport utilizing microwave radios has become the primary choice for carriers in India due to the challenges in deploying fiber in the country's dense urban areas and reaching remote rural areas. Industry analysts forecast continued microwave growth in India driven by a transition to all-IP radio, microwave backhaul, small-cell deployments and emergent E-band technologies.