Alcatel and Pirelli develop "Radio over Fiber" module for 3G mobile networks
1 December 2003 Milan Lightwave -- Alcatel has signed an agreement with Pirelli to integrate an optoelectronic module developed by Pirelli Labs and Telecom Italia Lab in its Evolium multi-standard Remote Radio Units solution, designed to reduce costs and electromagnetic emissions of 3G networks.
Evolving from a centralized Base Station platform architecture to the concept of multiple distributed radio access points all connected to one common central unit, the Alcatel Evolium multi-standard radio solution will integrate Pirelli's "Radio over Fiber" module. It will allow a smooth physical split between the central unit and multiple remote radio access heads by using direct optical fiber transmission.
Integrating the "Radio over Fiber" solution of Pirelli will provide Alcatel with a significant competitive advantage when compared with other available solutions in the marketplace, allowing increased cost efficiency and easier combination of multiple access technologies in mobile networks, say Pirelli representatives. In addition, the Alcatel Evolium solution will make site acquisition much easier, allowing the re-use of existing 2G sites for 3G while simplifying the operation and maintenance of hybrid networks.
"This new optoelectronic module, developed in strict cooperation with Alcatel, will enable mobile operators using the Evolium solution to benefit from more efficient equipment that will reduce costs by containing electromagnetic emissions," asserts Mr. Mauro Sacchetto, CEO of Pirelli Telecom Systems.
"This is a solution that will allow Alcatel to help mobile operators to expand their networks even in environments where the radiation are extremely low," adds Samy Gattegno, president and CEO of Alcatel Italia. "The solution we developed together with Pirelli is an innovative response to the problems related to the environment impact and to the installation difficulties that, in some way, have slowed down network deployment. It also paves the way for future mobile networks combining multiple access technologies."