RuralConnect IP, a new vehicle bringing broadband access to rural areas was recently released by Carlson Wireless, who are currently seeking FCC certification for the device. Pending certification in May, internet service providers will be able to use the software-defined radio to send broadband over the slivers of VHF and UHF spectrum not occupied by television (white spaces). Homes, businesses, and municipal agencies in rural and underserved areas will benefit greatly from the new device, since 20% of all WISPs are unable to serve their entire zone-customer base due to terrain, foliage, and infrastructure issues. Database provider Spectrum Bridge and KTS Wireless, specializing in white space technology, partnered with Carlson on the development of the radio.
The device is currently being tested with an experimental license from the FCC on rural areas belonging to the Yurok Tribe in the Klamath River region of California. At 5,000 members, the Yuroks are the largest tribe in the state, and live on a terrain that makes standard broadband wireless technology futile. Additionally, the Yurok culture prohibits interference with the land's viewscape, making infrastructure line-of-sight difficult.
Areas like the Yurok lands make microwave and satellite service infeasible and impractrical, so by using the VHF and UHF spectrum, hill-and-valley coverage and foliage penetration are improved. So far, testing has shown great success for the device under adverse conditions.
The radio has use beyond delivering broadband services. The California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) has entertained the possibility of deploying the radio for sharing data, such as photos and road closures for safety. Other Public Safety and government applications for the radio are just on the horizon, as are upgrades to the device's capacity. It stands at 5 MB currently, but a much fatter pipe is in Carlson's plans to combine channels.
See the Urgent Communications article for more information.
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