Picocell applications

Getting coverage into difficult buildings

Modern construction methods involve a bewildering use of materials and a range of innovative construction techniques. While these may pass an occupier’s aesthetic, status or environmental tests, they often block RF signals, making coverage within patchy or of poor quality.

The main problems stem from the special materials architects choose such as copper cladding or metal for roof and wall construction. Thick concrete and the increasing use of special glass windows for thermal efficiency can also cause problems. Unusual public buildings, such as museums, visitor centres, airports and stations are also susceptible to these coverage problems. In many cases the architect or building owner may have exacting requirements on what can be installed inside the building

All of this adds up to the requirement for a cost-effective in-building solution to overcome these challenges to coverage. Picocells work well in these environments:

• Allows the operator to provide excellent service in a challenging environment, improving customer perception of service quality.
• Puts coverage directly inside the building, rather than straining the macro network to serve in-building users from outside.
• Much cheaper and quicker than adding a dedicated macro cell or DAS solution.
• Picocells can be deployed discreetly, minimising the visual impact internally