Recently

University of Massachusetts applies to use WiMAX with virtual network lab

December 27th, 2009

The University of Massachusetts has filed an application and supporting exhibit with the FCC for an experimental license to use WiMAX as part of the Global Environment for Network Innovations (GENI) project.

Operation will be at 2590-2600 MHz and use NEC’s WiMAX base-station hardware supporting a maximum of three sectors, a coverage radius of 3-5 km, and peak data rates of 15-30 Mbps. The base station uses an external PC controller that interfaces the base station to other parts of the GENI infrastructure.

GENI plans to support experimentation on shared heterogeneous infrastucture with programmability throughout the network, including wireless aspects. It is intended to promote innovations in network science, security, technologies, services, and applications. At this time, GENI plans to use WiMAX at 8 universities. Some sites will also use the OpenFlow standard, which allows researchers to run experimental protocols on production networks.

GENI

BAE applies to test navigation and collision-avoidance radar

December 27th, 2009

BAE Systems has filed two applications with the FCC for experimental license. The first application and supporting exhibit is for testing, at 13.3 GHz, a re-design of BAE Systems’ ASN-128 Doppler navigation system used by the U.S. military. The re-design was needed because some materials used in the production of the antenna have been discontinued. Testing is to ensure that new materials have no adverse impact.

The second application and exhibit is to test, at 34.7 GHz, a radar collision avoidance system to be used by military aircraft, especially helicopters, at low altitudes to detect power lines and other structures that are close to the ground.

General Dynamics testing Integrated Wireless Network

December 23rd, 2009

General Dynamics submitted an application and supporting exhibit to the FCC to allow tests in support of the company’s Integrated Wireless Network, a nationwide trunked Land Mobile Radio system that is part of a government program. Various frequencies are requested including near 165, 770, and 800 MHz.

Multiplexed Terrestrial Television Broadcasting

December 23rd, 2009

Following the FCC’s suggestion that there may be opportunities for TV broadcasters to share 6 MHz channels, Michael Marcus looks at multiplexed digital terrestrial TV in the UK. He cites an Ofcom consultation on the future of digital TV.

ADC applies to test WiMAX in Colorado

December 23rd, 2009

ADC Telecommunications has filed an application and supporting exhibit with the FCC requesting Special Temporary Authority to test a WiMAX (802.16e) pico base station in the 2.5 GHz range. Tested will be coverage, uplink communication, and throughput in the Greely, Colorado area. Testing is in conjunction with WiMAX operator Open Range Communications. ADC partnered with WiNetworks to design the base station.