The recent and ongoing deployment of new public and private high-speed access networks has driven similar growth in the use of microwave as a primary means of backhaul, as only microwave and fiber have the ability to meet the throughput demands of these 21st-century networks. However, the increase in microwave use has made even scarcer the already congested spectrum in the FCC Part 101 common carrier bands. Fortunately, the FCC has recently made available additional spectrum in the 7 and 12 GHz bands and this spectrum will surely ameliorate the spectrum shortage. This new spectrum, however, does not address the short-haul requirements so common to urban deployments – requirements that will grow rapidly with the widespread deployment of small cells in mobile access networks. The challenge of providing connections so these small cells and other nodes will require the creative use of available common carrier bands as well as the use of non-traditional licensed and license-exempt bands that can support dense concentrations of microwave links. Exalt and other industry experts will discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with microwave deployments in both traditional and non-traditional bands.
Moderator:
Mark Davis, Senior Director of Product Marketing, Exalt Communications
Panelists:
Vijay Lewis, Vice President of Technology & Chief Network Architect, FiberTower
Swati Majumder, Staff Vice President at CTO’s Office, MetroPCS
Eric Miller, Senior Wireless Strategist, Strategic Development Group, XO Communications
