Frequently Asked Questions

National Wireless Solutions stands out from other consulting firms due to our focus on data-driven solutions and our commitment to delivering measurable results.

National Wireless Solutions works with clients of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations. We also work with non-profit organizations and government agencies.

The duration of an engagement with National Wireless Solutions varies depending on the complexity of the project. We work with clients on both short-term and long-term projects.

Wireless backhaul is a crucial component of modern telecommunications networks, providing the means to connect the core network to remote cell sites, access points, or other network infrastructure. Here are some of the key benefits of wireless backhaul:

1. Cost-Efficiency: Wireless backhaul can be more cost-effective than traditional wired solutions, such as fiber or copper cables. Installing and maintaining physical cables can be expensive, especially in remote or difficult-to-reach locations. Wireless backhaul eliminates the need for costly infrastructure deployment, such as trenching or laying cables.

2. Rapid Deployment: Wireless backhaul can be quickly deployed, allowing network operators to respond to changing network demands, such as expanding coverage in underserved areas or providing temporary connectivity for events and emergencies. This speed of deployment can be critical for maintaining network agility.

3. Scalability: Wireless backhaul solutions can be easily scaled to accommodate increased traffic or the addition of new cell sites. Network operators can add or upgrade wireless backhaul links as needed without the time-consuming process of laying additional physical cables.

4. Versatility: Wireless backhaul can be used in various scenarios, including point-to-point, point-to-multipoint, and mesh topologies, making it adaptable to different network architectures and requirements. It can also serve as a backup or redundancy solution for wired connections.

5. Geographic Flexibility: Wireless backhaul is suitable for connecting remote or rural areas where running physical cables may not be feasible or cost-effective. It can bridge connectivity gaps and extend network coverage to underserved regions.

6. Reliability: Modern wireless backhaul technologies are designed to provide high reliability and performance. They often incorporate features like error correction, adaptive modulation, and interference mitigation to ensure stable connections, even in challenging environments.

7. Reduced Latency: Wireless backhaul solutions can offer low-latency connections, making them suitable for applications that require real-time data transmission, such as voice and video communications and online gaming.

8. Mobility Support: Wireless backhaul can support mobile and wireless networks, including 4G, 5G, and Wi-Fi, providing connectivity for a wide range of devices and services.

9. Minimal Environmental Impact: Unlike wired solutions that may require significant excavation and construction, wireless backhaul typically has a smaller environmental footprint, making it a more sustainable choice.

10. Simplified Maintenance: Wireless backhaul systems are often easier to maintain than traditional wired infrastructure, as they don't suffer from issues like cable damage, degradation, or theft.

It's worth noting that the specific benefits of wireless backhaul can vary depending on the technology and frequency bands used, as well as the geographical and environmental factors of the deployment. Network operators must carefully consider their requirements and the available wireless backhaul options when planning and implementing their network infrastructure.

Wireless backhaul encompasses a variety of technologies and methods for transmitting data between network nodes or from cell towers to the core network. Different types of wireless backhaul solutions are used to meet specific needs and challenges. Here are some common types of wireless backhaul:

1. Microwave Backhaul: Microwave backhaul uses microwave radio frequencies to transmit data over the air. It's often used for long-distance, high-capacity links between cell towers or other network nodes. Microwave backhaul can operate in licensed or unlicensed frequency bands and offers high reliability and low latency. It's commonly used in point-to-point configurations.

2. Millimeter Wave (mmWave) Backhaul: Millimeter wave technology uses extremely high-frequency bands, typically in the 24 GHz and above range. These frequencies offer high bandwidth and are suitable for short- to medium-distance point-to-point links. Millimeter wave backhaul is often used for high-capacity, low-latency connections in dense urban areas.

3. Sub-6 GHz Backhaul: Frequencies below 6 GHz are commonly used for wireless backhaul in both licensed and unlicensed bands. They provide good coverage and can be used for various distances, depending on the specific frequency band and technology. Sub-6 GHz backhaul is often used in both point-to-point and point-to-multipoint configurations.

4. Fiber Wireless (FiWi) Backhaul: Fiber wireless backhaul combines optical fiber with wireless technology to provide high-capacity, low-latency connections. This approach can offer the reliability and speed of fiber while eliminating the need for physical cables between certain network nodes. It's particularly useful for connecting fixed access points, such as Wi-Fi hotspots.

5. Free-Space Optical (FSO) Backhaul: FSO backhaul uses laser or LED light to transmit data through the air over short- to medium-range point-to-point links. It offers high bandwidth and low latency, making it suitable for urban environments and locations where physical cables are not practical.

6. Satellite Backhaul: Satellite backhaul involves transmitting data to and from satellites in orbit to connect remote or underserved areas. It's particularly useful for reaching locations where terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable or uneconomical. Satellite backhaul can be relatively high-latency compared to other wireless options due to the distance data must travel to reach the satellite and back.

7. Point-to-Multipoint (P2MP) Backhaul: Point-to-multipoint backhaul setups involve a single base station communicating with multiple remote sites or end-users. This configuration is often used to provide connectivity to multiple subscribers or locations in a given area and is common in wireless access networks.

8. Mesh Backhaul: Mesh backhaul networks consist of multiple interconnected wireless nodes that can relay data through one another. Mesh networks are self-healing and can adapt to changing conditions, making them suitable for scenarios where redundancy and robustness are essential.

Each of these wireless backhaul technologies has its own set of advantages and trade-offs, making them suitable for different use cases and deployment scenarios. The choice of technology depends on factors such as distance, capacity requirements, available spectrum, and environmental conditions. Network operators must carefully consider these factors when selecting the appropriate wireless backhaul solution for their specific needs.

Whether you should use licensed or unlicensed wireless backhaul depends on your specific requirements and constraints. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice will be influenced by factors such as cost, availability, reliability, and regulatory considerations. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between licensed and unlicensed wireless backhaul:

1. Licensed Wireless Backhaul:

•  Licensed spectrum requires obtaining a government-issued license, which can involve costs and regulatory requirements.
• Provides exclusive access to a specific frequency band, reducing the likelihood of interference from other users.
• Typically offers higher reliability and performance due to reduced interference.
• Suitable for critical applications where consistent and high-quality connectivity is essential, such as enterprise networks and cellular network backhaul.
• Generally comes with a higher cost, as you need to pay for the spectrum license and equipment may be more expensive.

2. Unlicensed Wireless Backhaul:

• Operates in unlicensed frequency bands, which are free to use without obtaining a license.
• Lower upfront costs, as you don't need to pay for spectrum licenses, and equipment may be more affordable.
• May be subject to more interference from other devices operating in the same unlicensed bands, which can affect reliability and performance.
• Suitable for non-critical applications, short-range connections, or scenarios where budget constraints are a primary concern.
• Often used for point-to-point connections in scenarios like last-mile connectivity, rural areas, or temporary deployments.

Factors to consider when making your decision:

1. Cost: Licensed spectrum comes with licensing fees, which can be a significant cost factor. Unlicensed options are generally cheaper in this regard.

2. Reliability: Licensed spectrum tends to offer higher reliability due to reduced interference. It's preferred for mission-critical applications.

3. Regulations: Ensure that you comply with local regulations and licensing requirements when considering licensed spectrum.

4. Distance and Coverage: The distance you need to cover and the required coverage area will also influence your choice. Unlicensed spectrum may be sufficient for shorter distances.

5. Interference: Assess the level of interference in your area, as it can affect the performance of unlicensed solutions.

6. Scalability: Consider whether you may need to expand your network in the future. Licensed spectrum may provide better scalability for long-term growth.

In summary, your decision between licensed and unlicensed wireless backhaul should be based on your specific needs, budget, and regulatory considerations. Critical and high-performance applications may benefit from licensed spectrum, while less critical or budget-constrained scenarios may find unlicensed options suitable. It's essential to conduct a thorough analysis of your specific requirements before making a decision.

Licensed wireless backhaul is the process of using a specific portion of the wireless spectrum for point-to-point or point-to-multipoint communication to transport data from one location to another. This technology is commonly used to connect cell towers, remote offices, and other network infrastructure elements. To obtain a license for wireless backhaul, you typically need to follow these steps:

1. Determine Your Frequency Band: Before you can obtain a license for licensed wireless backhaul, you need to determine the specific frequency band you want to use. Different frequency bands are allocated for various purposes, including licensed wireless backhaul.

2. Regulatory Approval: In most countries, the allocation of spectrum for licensed wireless backhaul is regulated by the government's telecommunications or regulatory authority. You need to check with the relevant authority to understand the regulations, available frequency bands, and licensing requirements. In the United States, for example, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) manages spectrum allocation.

3. Application Submission: Once you've identified the frequency band you want to use and are familiar with the regulatory requirements, you need to submit a formal application for the spectrum license. The application will typically include technical details about your equipment, network topology, and intended use of the spectrum.

4. Application Review: The regulatory authority will review your application to ensure it complies with the relevant rules and regulations. They will assess factors such as interference potential with existing services, coordination with other licensees, and compliance with technical standards.

5. Auction or Assignment: In some cases, the regulatory authority may allocate spectrum through auctions, where multiple parties bid for the available licenses. In other cases, licenses may be assigned based on specific criteria or through a combination of auctions and assignments.

6. License Grant: If your application is approved, you will be granted a license to operate in the specified frequency band for your wireless backhaul network. This license may come with certain conditions and requirements, such as frequency coordination and interference mitigation measures.

7. Compliance and Reporting: Once you have the license, you must adhere to the regulatory conditions and report on your operations as required by the licensing authority. This may include periodic reporting of technical parameters and interference management.

8. Renewal and Compliance Maintenance: Licenses for wireless backhaul are typically granted for a specific term, and they may need to be renewed periodically. To maintain your license, you must continue to comply with regulations and any conditions specified in the license.

It's important to note that the specific process and requirements for obtaining a licensed wireless backhaul license may vary from country to country, as different governments have their own regulatory frameworks and spectrum allocation policies. Therefore, it's crucial to work closely with the relevant regulatory authority and follow their guidelines and procedures for obtaining a license for licensed wireless backhaul.

Form 601 is a document used in the United States for applying for various types of licenses related to radio frequency spectrum usage. It is primarily associated with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is the regulatory authority responsible for managing and allocating radio frequency spectrum in the United States.

Form 601, officially titled "Application for Radio Service Authorization," is used for applying for licenses, permits, and authorizations for a wide range of radio services, including:

1. Amateur Radio Service: Individuals who want to operate amateur radio stations and use specific frequencies for non-commercial purposes.

2. Commercial Radio Services: Businesses and organizations seeking licenses for various commercial radio services, such as fixed microwave, aviation, marine, and more.

3. General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS): GMRS licenses are used for personal or business communication on specific frequencies.

4. Part 90 Private Land Mobile Radio Services: These licenses are for private entities and government agencies that need land mobile radio communications.

5. Wireless Telecommunications Bureau: Applications related to various wireless telecommunications services, including point-to-point microwave, point-to-multipoint, and other wireless services.

The specific information and requirements for Form 601 may vary depending on the type of radio service you are applying for and the FCC's rules and regulations. It typically includes details about the applicant, proposed equipment, frequency bands, and other technical information.

A "Prior Construction Notice" (PCN) is a notification or application that is typically submitted to regulatory authorities, such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States, to inform them about planned construction activities related to wireless communication infrastructure, particularly cell towers and other radio communication facilities. It serves as a way for regulatory agencies to assess and coordinate the deployment of such infrastructure to ensure compliance with regulations and to manage potential interference with other communication services.

Here's how a Prior Construction Notice typically works:

1. **Planning Stage:** When a wireless communication provider or infrastructure developer plans to construct a new cell tower, antenna, or other related equipment, they must notify the regulatory authority (e.g., the FCC) of their intentions.

2. **Submission of PCN:** The provider or developer submits a Prior Construction Notice (PCN) to the relevant regulatory authority. This notice includes detailed information about the proposed construction, such as the location, type of equipment, technical specifications, and intended purpose.

3. **Review and Coordination:** The regulatory authority reviews the PCN to ensure that the proposed construction complies with relevant regulations, including those related to spectrum usage, environmental impact, and other relevant criteria. They may also consider the potential for interference with existing services.

4. **Coordination with Other Operators:** The regulatory authority may use the PCN to coordinate with other communication service operators to mitigate interference and ensure efficient use of the radio spectrum.

5. **Approval or Conditions:** Depending on the review, the regulatory authority may approve the PCN, with or without specific conditions, or they may reject it if it does not meet regulatory requirements. Conditions might include technical specifications, location adjustments, or other factors.

6. **Construction Commencement:** Once approved, the provider or developer can proceed with the construction in compliance with the conditions and any requirements specified by the regulatory authority.

The use and specific requirements of Prior Construction Notices may vary from one regulatory authority to another and may depend on local, regional, or national regulations. It is an essential part of the regulatory process to ensure that wireless communication infrastructure is deployed and operated in a way that minimizes interference and environmental impact while maximizing efficient use of the radio spectrum.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States typically requires licensees to meet certain build-out requirements after obtaining a license for a wireless communication link or service. These build-out requirements specify the timeframe within which a licensee must deploy and make operational use of the licensed spectrum. The exact build-out requirements can vary depending on the specific service or license involved, and they are typically outlined in the terms and conditions of the license.

The specific build-out requirements, including the timeframe for construction and commencement of operations, can be detailed in the license grant and may vary depending on factors like the type of service, geographic area, and frequency band. Failure to meet these build-out requirements can result in the forfeiture or termination of the license.

It's important to note that regulations and licensing conditions may change over time.

Additionally, you may want to consult with legal or regulatory experts who specialize in telecommunications law to ensure compliance with current regulations and licensing conditions.