Small-cell networks: energy-efficient, flexible and inexpensive

At present, femtocells (small cells enabling network extension into areas without coverage for private use) are used to fill excess demand for network throughput and indoor coverage. However, their real potential - to deliver high speeds indoors as well as outdoors in a cost-effective and energy-efficient way - is still not being adequately exploited. Today, operators who provide both fixed and mobile networks have a major advantage in the cost-effective deployment of dense, small-cell networks. To meet the need for high-speed broadband over an increasingly wide area, operators have already built up a high-capacity wireline infrastructure. The access boxes to this network (scattered around the streets) can be used as locations for new wireless access points. Thanks to these advantages, the total acquisition cost of a small-cell network can be significantly reduced by using the existing...