How Mesh Networks enable real world applications

We previously discussed why mesh networks are an ideal solution to solving many of the problems innovators face when deploying 5G communications networks, especially across smart cities, private networks for industry, or Public Safety. As they provide more reliable, dynamic connection by forming the most efficient route from point-to-point, data and applications can be securely delivered and controlled across a wide range of environments.

Mesh networks already serve important network links, but the potential continues to grow with new widespread and vital applications. In 2021 and beyond, we will see mesh networks deployed through security and transport systems, smart cities, industrial complexes, and the critical infrastructure we rely on every day.

For deployments in high density cities that need faster connections, ultra-low latency links (<500usec per hop) can be combined with nodes synchronised to nanosecond accuracy. This allows multi-gigabit rate mmWave mesh networks to be used to deploy Open RAN style 4G LTE / 5G NR Small Cell networks, that can easily be used by citizens and businesses needing data coverage. Thus, mesh networks can suitably meet the needs of a variety of applications as they emerge:

• Public Safety: Mesh networks for smart city deployment for CCTV connection and provision of smart city wireless network for fixed wireless access, backhaul, or Wi-Fi delivery.
• Smart Health: Virtual check-ins are made possible from the comfort of the patient’s home using telemedicine and IoT to monitor medicine consumption and vital signs from doctors working remotely.
• Mobility: Moving, linear mesh networks for V2X and Rail 5G applications can deliver multi-gigabit grade connectivity at high speeds. Our Mobility Connection Management (MCM) technology allows multiple IP sessions to be maintained as the mobile device moves along the track/road and handoff between trackside access points, ensuring a consistent high bandwidth connection.
• Security: Extension to a mobility mesh network, using our MCM technology, to create high bandwidth networks that enable tactical security applications and make real-time, actionable insights possible.
• 4G LTE / 5G NR Small Cell Backhaul: Linear mesh for backhaul relay for 4G or 5G small cell backhaul.

 

Benefits

Not only are mesh networks reliable and efficient, they are far more robust than an average network. Where complete fibre solutions are not economically or geographically viable, mesh networks are an ideal solution that bring high-quality wireless connections that better accommodate a shift in how we use technology today.

• Improved Performance: The high-density bandwidth of mmWave increases its capacity to transfer data and provides a stronger and more robust connection. This ensures quality will be maintained, even if scaled up for different applications.

Interference is also decreased as mmWave frequencies provide better control using spatial filtering and exploitation of the much larger bandwidths available for frequency re-uses (14 GHz in the license exempt 57-71 GHz band).

Obstructions are avoided with intelligent beamforming technology that adjusts connections by electronically searching and finding the most suitable route – in real time. Interference mitigation techniques, designed to reduce cochannel and adjacent channel interference, further increase resilience to levels more than those specified by ETSI for carrier grade mmWave communication links.

• Power Efficient Deployment: Beamforming allows the use of low transmit power levels (less than +40 dBmi) to direct radio power where it is needed, making mmWave nodes very power efficient.
• Easy, Cost-Efficient, and Scalable: Mesh networks allow for shorter range and lower power, resulting in a smaller product which can be placed onto existing outdoor infrastructure. This equates to faster installation, no extra costs and no disruptive excavation or digging. Since they can be deployed easily and rapidly, the technology is extremely scalable too.
• Network Responsiveness: Responsiveness can have a big impact on the performance of your network, but latency is not an issue with mesh networks. <500usec per hop allows multiple hops across a mesh network to be created whilst maintaining typical connection latencies of <10 msec. This is particularly relevant to the deployment of 4G LTE / 5G NR small cell network connectivity where ORAN PHY/ MAC protocol splits typically require less than 1 msec latency.

As more applications emerge, technological advancements and adapting to new ways of working will be essential. In order to make these applications across Public Safety, Smart Cities or High-Speed Transport a reality, the benefits that mmWave provides for existing and future networks will be invaluable. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how our technology can enable your applications.