UniNet: a hybrid approach for universal broadband access usingsmall radio cells interconnected by free-space optical links

摘要

A new type of broadband access system is proposed for providingnhigh-quality, bandwidth-upon-demand telecommunication services to thenhome and office. Communication terminals attach to the network via shortnradio links, and users can roam freely within a house or buildingnunencumbered by the availability of wired “telecommunicationsnoutlets”. Basic service is extended through small, high-capacitynradio cells; the base stations are interconnected via short, highlynfocused free-space optical links in a multihop mesh arrangement; and thenneed for new broadband access cabling is totally surmounted. A tierednarrangement of radio cells further extends service to bothnout-of-building pedestrian and vehicular users, and service isnuniversally available. Benefits of the approach are described, andnissues involving reliability, availability, capacity, and hand off arenidentified and addressed. Opportunities to refine the basic approach arensuggested for further study